Bankruptcy lawyer, and adjunct economics professor. Born in Mitchell, SD and raised on a family farm on the Iowa/South Dakota border. Currently resides in Clarence. Received B.S. degrees in Ag Economics and Speech Communications from Kansas State University. Received a Juris Doctorate from the University of Iowa College of Law and an M.A. in Economics from the University of Iowa. Member Clarence Lions Club, North Cedar High School Encore Club, St. Mary's Catholic Church, American Bar Association, Iowa State Bar Association, South Dakota Bar Association, Minnesota Bar Association, American Ag Law Association and American Bankruptcy Institute. Wife Sandy, three daughters and one son. Serving first term in Senate.