Retired from the U.S. Navy after over 30 years, Don holds degrees from the University of Georgia, The George Washington University, and the Georgia Technical College System.

While in the Navy, Don traveled extensively and has designed, directed, tech'ed, stage-managed, and/or appeared in dance, stage, television, and film productions literally world-wide. In 2003, he served as Technical Director & Stage Manager for UGA's "Core Concert Dance Company" during an extended U.S. State Department exchange tour of the People's Republic of China. Additionally, he is frequently called upon as a designer, guest lecturer and/or consultant for theater and performing arts groups throughout the Southeast.

Don is the only remaining founding member of WBCT and served as President for four years. In 2006, the Barrow County Chamber of Commerce presented him THE COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD for his work in bringing live theater and the performing arts to Barrow County. As the resident set designer, Don has designed the set for every Main Stage show since WBCT opened its doors, as well as serving as Technical Director, Theater Carpenter and Special Effects Coordinator.

In April of 2007, Don was hired as Winder's first Cultural Arts Director. In addition to his role as a promoter, producer, and general pitchman for all forms of art and artistic expression in Winder, Barrow County and Northeast Georgia, Don also serves as the Facilities Manager for the Winder Cultural Arts Center.

Don is a Member of the U. S. Institute for Theatre Technology (USITT), a Board Member of the Barrow Community Foundation, an inductee into Alpha Psi Omega - The National Theater Honor Society and a Life Member of both the Military Order of the Purple Heart & the Disabled American Veterans. He very is proud to be a Partner in Education with the Barrow County Schools. He and his wife - poet, educator and 2011 Georgia Author of the Year Finalist Dana - live on a 40+ acre farm in Bethlehem, GA with two generations of family, two dogs and - at last count - four (or is it six?) cats.