I was raised on a family farm in South Dakota. Although I am far from being on a farm today, growing up on one provides a unique perspective. The prairies give you an expansive, grounded view while delivering an appreciation for the ability to see for miles, soak in the most colorful sunsets, and experience some of the hardest, most satisfying work possible.
From the choices I made, my life unfolded in ways I expected and, to a certain degree, ways I did not expect. Here is a glimpse of my educational and professional paths since those days on the farm:
- Graduated with a BA in Government & International Affairs from Augustana College, Sioux Falls, SD.
- Worked as a political appointee in Washington, DC, for U.S. Senator James Abdnor, the U.S. Department of Commerce, the U.S. Small Business Administration, and an agency in The White House.
- Graduated with an MBA from The University of Texas in Austin.
- Worked in various marketing and business development roles for technology companies including Deloitte, IBM, and BMC Software.
- Current role: vice president of marketing for a health care software company.
- Involved in youth confirmation class for four years, three of those as the co-leader.
Outside of career and background is my family. Being married for nearly twenty years and currently raising two teens provides an endless list of joys, challenges, and memories centered in love and always trying to make the right choices.
All of this has defined who I am in so many different ways. Springing from my experiences, thoughts, and inner spirit come my personal mission:
I want my life to matter… for my family, friends, and community. I want my life to stand for something meaningful that others can grab onto and pull forward. I want my life to encourage and challenge, advancing thoughts and ideas. I want my life to be spirit-filled and engaged fully.
My name is Jon Mertz , and this is my personal blog. These are my writings and thoughts about how the choices we make define who we are and about how we need to make the essential choice of living an engaged life.
Please subscribe to my twice-a-month newsletter and receive an ebook entitled Your Glass of Life.
