Johnathan West (’03)
SUU to Insurance Agency CEO
Originally published on May 05, 2023.
Originally from Boulder City, Nevada, Johnathan West graduated from Boulder City High School in 1998, and chose SUU for its location, affordability, and quality of education. He then put himself on a college fast-track, earning his bachelor’s degree in
communication in just three years, with an emphasis in broadcasting, and a minor in Spanish.
The social aspects of student life are what Johnathan says he enjoyed the most about the University. He created lifelong relationships with friends, staff, clients, and even met his future wife—Tadi Finicum—here. Johnathan was indeed a busy student taking 20 credit hours each semester while running for student body president, serving as a resident advisor, and taking outside employment.
“SUU has had a tremendous impact in my life,” he says. “During my last year of college I discovered the insurance industry. My counselors were very accommodating; they supported me and many allowed me to become their insurance agent.”
Across several states, Johnathan has established a presence in the insurance, automotive, and vacation rental industries, owning an agency, a car lot, and multiple properties. He credits SUU for his success, and uses his Spanish studies every day as he communicates with employees, customers and friends.
Johnathan is most proud of being American National’s top manager for more than a decade, and for the close connections he has forged with his colleagues across the United States and in more than 10 different countries.
Johnathan, Tadi, and their five children—along with many pets—reside in Cane Beds, Arizona, and are active members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. In his spare time, John writes and records country songs, flies his Cessna 210B airplane, and cheers on the St. Louis Cardinals baseball club.
