Alumni Profile: Jim Kelley '95

Recently, we were lucky enough to catch up with Jim Kelley ‘95, and he shared memories of his years at Hebron and also what he has pursued as a career path. 

Do you have a favorite memory of a teacher or an event at Hebron while you were a student?

I have many great memories of the wonderful teachers and coaches. Just recently I came across an old report card that included detailed teacher comments. Before Hebron, I had not been accustomed to productive and supportive feedback and the memory made me smile. Hebron’s willingness to invest in me had a very positive effect on my new found approach and focus. Specifically, I remember Coach Moose Curtis helping me stay on track in chemistry. The course did not come easy to me at all, but his efforts put me on the path to overall success. 

 Was there a class or experience at Hebron that helped you on your journey?

The entire Hebron experience helped shape my views towards others and the world. Living away from home on campus, the advanced academics, as well as various athletic pursuits broadened my horizon in a special and memorable way. Namely, it gave me the confidence to trek from East (Massachusetts) to West (Arizona) and start a new life halfway through my college career. I had never been West and believe the positive experience during my postgraduate year boarding at Hebron had a lot to do with it. I’d point specifically to the personalized attention I received from the staff, an outstanding curriculum and the continuous feedback built a foundation that allowed me to take some chances that made all the difference in my life. 

What are you doing now and how did you choose that path?

I’ve been with various Allegis Group companies over the past 19 years (Allegis is the largest privately held recruitment/services company in the US). My current role is a senior program manager within our ‘Actalent Engineering & Sciences’ division. My focus is to develop creative talent acquisition strategies and innovative retention solutions for our clients and consultants. I was referred to the company by a former college schoolmate who thought I’d be a good culture fit. Seven interviews later, they gave me a shot to prove myself.