One of the guiding philosophies of President Kevin L. Alexander’s leadership of Marshall B. Ketchum University is to place capable individuals into key roles and allow them the freedom to shine. Among the many people upon whom President Alexander relies is one who sits right outside his office, serving as a onewoman welcoming committee, sentry and/or logistics coordinator. Carole Jolly is the Executive Assistant to the President and is one of President Alexander’s most important and trusted colleagues.
When Carole was laid off after a 30-year career in hospital administration, she took the opportunity to reflect on the fact that the world she inhabited was at odds with the warmth and generosity of her personality. After exploring her options, she took a leap of faith and accepted the position at MBKU, where she quickly thrived. At MBKU she found that even the most difficult challenges of assisting and supporting a University president are moderated by a genuine sense of community. “For a long time, I felt like this place was too good to be true,” she says. “The people here are really, really kind. It’s a family here.”
Carole also provides logistical and administrative support for the Board of Trustees, planning and prepping for Board meetings, at which she is entrusted with an extensive knowledge of the inner workings of MBKU’s leadership. But she sees it as an even greater honor to get along well with President Alexander, to have his deep respect, and to represent the Office of the President with kindness and resolve.