Personal
I am a native Texan and have lived in the Dallas area my entire life. I am chief executive affairs officer of Ben E. Keith Co., a nationwide food and beverage distributor, where I have worked for 37 years, serving in all aspects of the company. Currently, I serve on boards in Texas, Missouri and Washington, D.C. I like giving back to organizations that help our veterans, first responders, education and the recovery community. I am an avid fisherman and hunter.I am family-focused and an avid fisherman who enjoys all things outdoors. I also like to exercise, eat good food and listen to live music. My wife, Kristin, and I share a blended family of five great kids.
Kemper
Not a day goes by that don’t use my leadership traits that I learned at Kemper Military School. I love talking to Old Boys and learning about their time at Kemper!
Personal
I was born and raised in central Illinois and began my journey at Kemper Military School in the summer of 1990 at the age of 12, following the completion of the 6th grade. I became a full-time student in the fall and spent six formative years at Kemper, earning the rank of First Lieutenant and receiving the Superior Cadet Award.After Kemper, I attended a private Christian university, where I earned a double major bachelor’s degree in Aviation Maintenance Management and Non-Destructive Testing. I was honored to be included on the National Dean’s List and in Who’s Who Among American Students during my time there.Following college, I launched my career in aviation, starting at an aviation repair facility in central Illinois. I worked my way up to become the Director of Maintenance for a new startup company. Currently, I serve as a Lead Maintenance Supervisor at a Bombardier Aircraft Service facility, where I oversee aircraft maintenance operations.
Kemper
My time at Kemper Military School shaped my life in countless ways, particularly in developing my leadership skills and discipline. The lessons I learned as a cadet, both in the classroom and through my military responsibilities, provided the foundation for my success in the aviation industry and beyond. I am deeply proud to be part of the Kemper legacy and to give back as a member of the Alumni Association.
Personal
John Tandy was born in St. Louis, Missouri, and attended Kemper Military School from 1977 to 1982. During his time at Kemper, he was an active member of the Color Guard, Mounted Cavalry, Military Police, and Track Team. He was also a founding member and Commander of the high school drill team, the Guards.John earned degrees from Lewis and Clark College, Greenville Christian College, and the US Naval Senior Enlisted Academy. He also completed his Police Officer Certification through the Police Training Institute at the University of Illinois.John founded his own remodeling and historic restoration company, which he successfully operated from 1984 to 2024. Following the events of 9/11, he enlisted in the U.S. Naval Construction Force (Seabees) at the age of 40, where he served with distinction in Operation Iraqi Freedom and led construction projects around the world. He retired as a Senior Chief Petty Officer after 20 years of service.Beyond his military career, John served three terms as a City Councilman and Police Commissioner and also served as an Officer Instructor in the U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps.
Kemper
John credits his time at Kemper Military School for shaping his leadership abilities and sense of duty. His dedication to service and community continues to reflect the values instilled during his years at Kemper.
Personal
Dr. John Mark Kirk began his military career at Kemper Military School and College, where he attended from 1970 to 1972 and graduated with an Associate of Arts Degree. While at Kemper, he earned MS1 and MS2 Superior Cadet Awards, was Valedictorian of his College Class, and was elected to Who’s Who in American Junior Colleges.After Kemper, Dr. Kirk attended Westminster College in Fulton, Missouri, graduating in 1974 with a Bachelor of Arts Degree. He then pursued his medical education at the Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine through the Health Professions Scholarship Program, earning his Doctor of Osteopathy Degree in 1979.Dr. Kirk’s distinguished career in the military includes postgraduate studies at Tripler Army Medical Center, where he completed an internship, residency in Psychiatry, and a Fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry by 1988. Over his career, he held numerous high-responsibility roles, including Commander of a hospital, Deputy Commander for Clinical Services, Command Surgeon for the U.S. Army Recruiting Command, and Chief of Psychiatry Departments.He retired from the United States Army in 2002 with the rank of Colonel, earning awards such as the Legion of Merit with 2 Oak Leaf Clusters, Meritorious Service Medal with 3 Oak Leaf Clusters, and selection to the Order of Military Medical Merit.Since retiring from the Army, Dr. Kirk has worked in private practice, community mental health, and with various healthcare corporations. He is currently licensed in Alabama and board-certified in Psychiatry, specializing in child and adolescent psychiatry.
Kemper
Dr. Kirk credits his time at Kemper Military School for instilling leadership values that guided him throughout his life and career. Serving on the Board of Directors for the Kemper Military School Alumni Association since October 2023, he remains dedicated to preserving the legacy of Kemper and its influence on alumni.
Personal
I reside in Evansville, Indiana, and have been actively involved in my community and church. I am a member of Holy Redeemer Catholic Church, where I have served in various positions on the Parish Council and with the Knights of Columbus.I also actively participate in the Evansville Country Club through various committees and have professional memberships in the American Pet Products Association and the World Pet Association.I have been involved with the Kemper Military School and College Alumni Association since 2002, holding numerous board and committee roles, which have allowed me to give back to the school that shaped my leadership and values.
Professional
I am the President and CEO of Pet Food Centers, LLC, a role I’ve held since 2015. In addition, I am the co-founder and CEO of CTDots and RawDog Chews, which I have led since 2019.I also serve as Vice President of KKCM Digital Processing Solutions, a position I assumed in 2023. My professional career has been built on a foundation of leadership, innovation, and dedication to both my business and my community.
Kemper
Dr. Kirk credits his time at Kemper Military School for instilling leadership values that guided him throughout his life and career. Serving on the Board of Directors for the Kemper Military School Alumni Association since October 2023, he remains dedicated to preserving the legacy of Kemper and its influence on alumni.
