Rickey L. Knox Jr., Dorm Parent, is a transplant from Indianapolis, Indiana. This native Midwesterner attended Ivy Tech Community College in 2006 where he majored in Visual Communication with a minor in Graphic Design.  Rickey has always had a strong love for the arts and creativity, and it is that love of creativity that inspired Rickey to explore various artistic methods including painting, drawing, sculpture, wood burning, pottery, carving, creative writing, and digital media. Rickey is also skilled at dance choreography and music production, having ran an award-winning youth performing arts program for several years. “One of my goals in life is to be a Renaissance man.”

Rickey has spent a large portion of his adolescent and adult life working with inner-city youth and teens in a variety of programs. Some of the roles Rickey has played in serving his community include Park manager, Camp director, Youth mentor, AmeriCorps member, After School program coordinator, 4H leader, Camp counselor, Tutor, and AFS host Parent. “I believe that it is my love for creativity and the exploration of the imagination that has allowed me to successfully connect with youth and adults on their level. I want them to feel empowered by their own creativity and not be afraid to express themselves.”

In his spare time, Rickey enjoys hiking, camping, gardening, drawing, collecting and reading comic books, watching movies, playing card games, listening to music, and leaving everyone around him in stitches.

What do you love most about Oliverian?

“I love the family/community atmosphere here at Oliverian. A family is supposed to be accepting, loving, and supportive no matter what. And that is what I see here at Oliverian.”

What motivates you to work with kids?

“I enjoy working with young people, because to me they are like greenware (unfired clay); they can still be reshaped and remolded through new and different experiences. Their outlook and expectation on life have not totally solidified. Therefore, it is not too late for them to be influenced and inspired. And it is not too late for them to explore the depths of their own creativity.”