Steve Koch | Associate Director for Leadership Programs, Office of Student Involvement
“I have developed an “adapt with a smile” approach to life, this approach fuels my positive attitude and is central to my role as a professional, husband and father.
Working in higher education for close to 20 years, and in non-profit for three years, I have received many blessings, conquered quite a few challenges, braved through some anticipated and unanticipated life changes, and witnessed countless amazing feats from others.
While in high school, my dream was to play college basketball, and although I was not recruited by any colleges, I was presented with an opportunity to compete at a small division three school. Shortly after the very first team practice, I endured a back injury that required invasive surgery, and my playing days were over. I went on to explore new things, take on new hobbies, and expand on my relationships. That account taught me to always be optimistic as I realized that my path was simply redirected, I experienced the beauty in other things, and I am truly grateful for that.
Twelve years into my job in higher education, I experienced yet another back injury, requiring another surgery. I went on disability and did not return to that job, as I chose to reinvent myself. I worked for a non-profit (and loved it) and that path ultimately led me to my dream job at Villanova.
My biggest test of resilience occurred when I lost my first wife to cancer. This incredibly devastating loss changed me completely. I now live every day with a sense of vigor and deep appreciation, and always with an open heart.
I am positive not because I believe life is easy, quite the contrary, I am positive because life is hard, and I know we all have the power to charge on, take forward steps, “redirect” and lean on one another in the spirit of love.”
