Jerod Denton ‘95, ‘97 MS
Sigma Nu
Nashville, TN
My Greek affiliation taught me how to interact productively with people of different backgrounds, beliefs, and world views.
Science literacy is a passion of mine. I strongly believe that the key to better living, staying competitive in a global economy, and the ultimate survival of our species is the embracement of science and technology.
My UCA education taught me to think critically, allowed me to do research for the first time, and led me to pursue graduate work at Dartmouth.
One of my favorite memories is of meeting Dr. Mike Moran in the Conway Walmart Supercenter the summer after I took his Animal Physiology course. I was working for Coca-Cola and stacking 12 packs on display in the center of the store when I happened to see Dr. Moran. I said, “Hey Dr. Moran, I really enjoyed your physiology course. Any chance I could be a lab assistant next year?” He replied, “Ever thought of doing laboratory research? Drop by my office next week and I’ll give you some articles to read and we’ll go from there.” That chance meeting in Walmart began my journey to doing science for a living.
I am now at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tennessee. My wife and my two sons are extremely important to me. I have benefitted tremendously from hard work and a little luck. I truly believe that if not for UCA, I would likely have a dramatically different life.
My Greek experience was fun, helped me build character, and introduced me to some life-long friends.