Northwest Missouri State University

Northwest Family Portrait

March 13, 2008

A weekly spotlight featuring new members of the University community.

Meet Dr. Jason White

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Dr. Jason White, assistant professor of accounting, economics and finance, earned his Ph.D. in economics from the University of Missouri-Kansas City and is now in his ninth year as a member of the Northwest faculty. He lives in Maryville with his his wife, Suzi. The couple has two children, Sierra, 13, and Jake, 9.

What brought you to Northwest?

Northwest is my alma mater.  I earned a bachelor's degree in finance in 1991.  I had the opportunity to "try" full-time teaching as a visiting faculty member at Northwest in 1997.  I enjoyed the experience so much, I new it was my life's calling.  I enrolled in the UMKC Ph.D. program that very fall.  As a matter of tremendous good fortune, I had the opportunity to return to Northwest as a full-time instructor in 1999.  I have loved every minute of it ever since.

What is the most memorable moment of your career?

I have had many memorable moments, including teaching and research awards from the University and outside bodies. But my most memorable would have to be earning my Ph.D. in 2003.  I had my doubts, but pulled it off!

What do you consider your greatest achievement?

A strong and lasting marriage and the joy of raising two wonderful children.

What do you enjoy about your work?

Student interaction - both online and face to face. The mediums are very different from one another, yet I cherish elements of each.

If you weren’t in this profession, what would you be doing?

I would be an NFL quarterback, preferably for the Kansas City Chiefs. They could use one!

What three words would friends and colleagues use to describe you?

Ethical. Humorous. Friendly.

What are your goals in life?

To do the best job I can at work while maintaining balance with home life. 

Who are your heroes?

Ronald Reagan. John Keynes. Dale Earnhardt.

If you could change one thing about yourself what would it be?

I would have the discipline to use the thousands of dollars worth of exercise equipment I own.

What has been the toughest time or period in your life?

Balancing a full-time teaching job, completing a Ph.D. and not forgetting the most important people in my life -- my family.

What were you like in high school and/or college?

Fast.  I don't look it today, but I was a very good long distance runner.

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