Eric grew up in Holt, MI – minutes from MSU but a University of Michigan fan. After graduating from high school Eric entered the U.S. Marine Corps, where he served for 6 years.

After the Marines, Eric stayed close to home and ended up graduating from Michigan State University in 1998 with a degree in child development. He again refused to hide his Michigan fandom and wore a Maize and Blue necktie under his Spartan gown.

Following graduation he began his career as a kindergarten teacher at Walter French Academy in Lansing, while also continuing to take classes at MSU, earning a Master’s Degree in Curriculum and Teaching in 2003. 

Eric’s career continued at Lansing Public Schools as an early childhood teacher at Wexford Montessori Magnet School.  By 2008, Eric obtained his 2nd Master’s Degree in Education with a focus on Montessori Early Childhood from Saint Catherine University in Minnesota.  He later completed his junior and senior high credentialing in Cincinnati, OH.

In 2016, Eric accepted the job of Head of Schools for the Leelanau Montessori Public School Academy in Suttons Bay.  Under Eric’s leadership, the LMPSA negotiated a new 8 year school charter. Eric also took the lead in purchasing property to relocate the school facilities.

Never one to slow down, Eric was also an Adjunct Instructor at Lansing Community College and Baker College. He was also a referee for youth sports in both the Lansing and Leelanau communities. 

It was in March 2018 that Eric was diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer. Although given this dire prognosis, Eric faced it with the same smile and positivity that he faced everything. He continued working and smiling all throughout his treatment. He remained a positive light even when surrounded by so much darkness.

In March 2019, Eric lost his battle with cancer. Soon after, the idea for this endevour started. This foundation was created to continue his work. To make sure that every child in the area has every opportunity to learn.