Jon grew-up in Sitka and has lived in a variety of states over the past 15 years including Oregon, Washington, Virginia, and Georgia. Following his service in the United States Army he attended school at Washington State University/Portland State University where he completed his BS in molecular biology and a minor in chemistry. He studied biology (physiology) in graduate school at PSU under the guidance of Dr. Stan Hillman focusing on the comparative physiology of Anuran (frogs & toads) urinary systems. He has taught Human Anatomy & Physiology to college students for the past 5 years and has also taught courses on cell and general biology. He enjoys running, cycling, snowboarding, fishing, and reading.