BIOGRAPHY

Hi! My name is Alex and I am a senior studying Civil and Environmental Engineering with a focus in Hydrology and Hydraulic Engineering as well as Structural Engineering. I am also a baritone player in Marching Illini and will be traveling with the band this coming spring to march in Dublin, Ireland’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade! In addition to baritone I play bassoon in some classical ensembles. At home I have three younger brothers, who are all bigger than me now which has been a crushing truth to come to terms with, and an incredible mom. In my free time I like to competitively eat chicken nuggets, I have only ever competed against myself but one day maybe I’ll make it to the big leagues. My record is 30 nuggets in a sitting and this summer I hope to double that. I honestly am incredibly excited to be a part of the 2018 team and cannot wait to see the country from one of the most unique perspectives I can think of, and for such a great cause. The dual financial support Illini 4000 has provided over the years towards both cancer research and patient support services has had a measurable impact for the people on the receiving end and I cannot wait to help to contribute towards both in any and every way that I can.

PERSONAL STATEMENT

While I have not lost anyone in my immediate family to cancer, I lost my father in 2013, right before the start of my senior year of high school. When I lost my dad my family was immediately flocked with support from all around, family, friends, neighbors and distant acquaintances all came together to offer help in any way they could. But what I noticed was that the people offering support around you naturally will move on more quickly than you do yourself. While you still may want to talk and heal, the subject becomes a little bit more taboo. What struck me most about the Portraits Project was that it offers cancer patients, survivors and caregivers alike the opportunity to share their stories and welcome that support at a time where it may have been a little bit more sparse from other facets of their lives. I think the fact that Portraits Project offers this opportunity for people to share their journeys is incredible and I am very excited to help contribute to such a great cause.