A little bit about Ryan . . .

Born in Omaha, Ryan spent parts of his childhood in both Iowa and Nebraska. After graduating from Omaha Central, he was awarded a full scholarship to Iowa State University. He graduated in 2005 with a BS in History and Political Science. While at ISU he served as a journalist for the Iowa State Daily and as president of the ISU Mock Trial team, which made it to two national tournaments. In 2008 he graduated from Kansas University with an MA in US History, focusing on post-reconstruction, civil rights, and environmental history. Ryan has worked for Nationwide for the past 15 years. In the last seven years, he has served in a leadership role managing high-performing teams of insurance professionals.

His passion for the environment and regard for all life have led him to live as a compassionate vegetarian for the past 19 years. While land management, sustainability, water quality, and sanctity of life are key factors in his personal choice to be a vegetarian, he understands that choice is not for everyone.

Being raised by a family of modest means, he understands many of the challenges that face working families. He has helped and supported family members who have dealt with addiction and mental health issues. Ryan was the only person in his immediate family to attend college and graduate, thanks to the support of his family and public school teachers. He and wife Laura are raising Nigel, age 17, and Lincoln, age 4.

He enjoys road trips across the United States, college football, and playing Madden Football. Ryan is also convinced he could be a professional bowler with enough practice. Laura is not convinced.