Sam is the founder of Dotzler Law, LLC, a firm focusing on trusts and estates as well as small business planning. Reflecting on his St. Olaf education, Sam says, "The professors are world class." Two had a significant impact on him: Gene Bakko, professor emeritus of biology, and Charles Taliaferro, professor of philosophy. "They challenged [me] and taught me to look at the world differently. They showed me a new paradigm of learning that I apply today," says Sam.

Currently, Sam spends many hours practicing law, with the rest of his time devoted to his wife Erin (O'Donnell) '00 and their infant son Liam. Fond of cooking and appreciative of Chicago's good restaurants, Sam and Erin have planned St. Olaf "Around the World, Around Chicago" events for the past few years. Each month they select an ethnic restaurant and invite Oles and Ole parents to get together and enjoy Chicago's global cuisines.

As an alumni board volunteer, Sam wants to explore ways to make better use of the St. Olaf alumni network. "There are Oles around the world doing amazing things, pursuing successful careers, and making a difference. We can tap into that network and expand St. Olaf's reputation," he says.