JUSTIN KNOWLES

WHERE DO YOU LIVE? 

Portsmouth, New Hampshire.

WHAT'S YOUR POSITION AT THE BIG ANDREW AND HOW DOES THE FOUNDATION INSPIRE YOU?  

I have the best position at The Big A! I suppose my technical title is "Director" but the more appropriate title is "bi-coastal handyman." I have a fair amount of operational responsibilities with the Atlantic Chapter (AC) as well as leading the charge for growing the Pacific Chapter (PC).

That being said, the AC runs like a finely tuned machine year after year so my AC position is mostly to keep the stoke up and have fun. The PC, on the other hand, is still finding its rhythm and voice within the Gorge community, so my PC position is to lead our team and grow the foundation. The foundation inspires me by the pure camaraderie that happens at any Big A event. To have a successful Big A event it takes many passionate and committed members of the community. Honestly, it takes a full year of collaborating, organizing and planning to make these events happen. When the day of the event comes and it all goes down, people are smiling, high-fiving and enjoying themselves. That's when I take a step back to look around at the positive energy that surrounds the Big A. Every event I have this moment where everyone's vibing and the spirits are high. it's magical fun for me and is certainly the reason I continue to be inspired by the foundation!

WHAT'S YOUR BIGGEST ASPIRATION IN LIFE?

To share wisdom, encourage love and own land where the mountains meet the ocean.

HOW DO YOU LIKE YOUR EGGS?

Homemade. Ground pepper. Hot sauce.

MOST NOTABLE PERSONAL OR PROFESSIONAL ACCOMPLISHMENT?

Other than being apart of the Big A, it has to be graduating from the University of Oregon. I am young and this is just the start. 

FAVORITE ACTIVITY WHEN NOT WORKING?

Surfing. But when it's flat anything that will bring me outdoors, challenge my comfort zone and allow me to be in tune with the environment.

HAVE ANY PETS?

Not at the moment, but not for long. A dog is in the near future.

BIGGEST PET PEEVE?

Mismatched socks.

FAVORITE COLOR?

Orange.

FAVORITE MOVIE/WHY?

Batman: The Dark Knight... Heath Ledger as The Joker gives me chills every time. He absolutely nailed that role! "Why so serious?"

ANY CLOSING REMARKS?

Take time to reflect, appreciate what you have and who you're with. Nothing is more important than the people along the way.