Bio: Graduated from Appleton West in 1974; earned B.A. from Northwestern University and law degree from University of Wisconsin. His career started as a practicing attorney in Chicago where he was named the Commissioner/Compliance Officer of

what is now known as the Horizon League (UW-GB and UW-M are members). Most of his career has been in sports management (MLB, NFL,Continental Basketball Association) aside fro m six years as an elected official of the New Orleans City Council. He and his wife, Dr. Susan Fielkow, have three sons (Justin, Michael and Steven) and two daughters (Yana and Svetlana).

Current occupation: President & CEO, National Basketball Retired Players Association

Professional Accolades: 2014 - inducted into the Appleton West Hall of Fame; 2009 - named "New Orleanian of the Year;" 2007-2011 - citizens voted him "Best New Orleans City Concilmember;" 2007 - New Orleans Anti-Defamation League's A.I. Botnick Torch of Liberty Award; and many others

Favorite high school class: Civics and geography. I always had an interest in traveling, both in the U.S. and internationally. And, as it turns out, the government, politics and civics classes ultimately became part of my future. (His six years serving as an elected official in New Orleans immediately followed Hurricane Katrina.)

Teacher/Coach who made the biggest impact: Dick Emanuel, head basketball coach and assistant principal, was a mentor to me. I always had great respect and admiration for him. He was a legend at West. So many players in the basketball system got their foundation in life through his teaching and coaching.

Favorite thing about Appleton: Appleton is always going to be home for me. It brings back such fond memories. West was always known for outstanding academics and athletics. My most fond memories range from playing basketball, the state tournament for tennis, and having my first girlfriend.

Returning to Appleton: I still have some family in Appleton. We try to get back once or twice a year. We still have Packers season tickets so we usually make it back during football season. Last year we had a class reunion. I like to stay as connected as possible. The city is just such a special place; it will always be part of me.

Giving Back: It is important to give back to your school. Appleton West laid the foundation for me and so many of my cousins and other family members. Last year our family endowed a scholarship for a West student pursuing a degree in sports business/management.