Kelly Patmore ’14 serves as the Shipherd Hall director and intramural sports coordinator at The University of Olivet. His motivation to work at the college stems from his own positive experience as a student, earning a bachelor’s degree in sociology and anthropology in 2014. Kelly’s ultimate goal is to help young men and women learn and grow, developing successful futures and a network of lifelong supporters.
Why do you love OC?
I love the people here. The opportunities that the staff and faculty offer students are endless, and the experience that a student can have at Olivet is incredible if they take the time to engage with the campus community.
Where does your passion for working with college students stem from?
Being able to see the pride our students take in their personal and professional growth. It is truly a blessing to get to know these unique individuals on a personal level and help them reach their goals.
What’s the average day in your role, or some of the unique things you are responsible for?
There is no average day — that’s what makes this job so exciting and rewarding. I have experienced students at their highest of highs and lowest of lows. Particularly, now that I am working with the Student Government Association, student clubs and organizations, and Greek life, on top of my original roles as hall director and intramural sports coordinator, there are new hurdles every day. The best part is working alongside passionate and brilliant students to tackle these new issues as they take an active role in shaping the student experience.
Why do you encourage students to attend The University of Olivet?
It is difficult to put into words just how strong of relationships students will build here or the lengths that faculty, staff and other students are willing to go in order to make them successful at OC. It’s something that just needs to be experienced.
What do you look forward to in your role?
Continuing to build and grow our recreational opportunities for students on campus, a safe and successful Greek pledging season, welcoming new additions to our student body in January, and working alongside Student Government to streamline the process for creating and updating student clubs and organizations — just to name a few things.
What advice do you share with students?
It’s OK to be wrong and it’s OK to make mistakes, as long as you’re able to acknowledge and grow from it. Being open to this will allow you to find success much faster.
What is your favorite memory from your time at OC?
During my time as a student, some of my peers had decided to take the time to build a snow wall blocking one of the sidewalks in the Square. It was an impressive structure, measuring at least six feet tall. Watching Jake Schuler, assistant dean of student life, break a hole in the middle to clear a path with a baseball bat was equally as impressive.
What is an interesting or little-known fact about yourself?
I am an avid historical re-enactor, playing base ball (yes, two words) as it was played in its infancy in the 1860s. We don’t wear gloves, there are strict guidelines on acting as a gentleman and we even wear knickers. We have played in venues such as Greenfield Village, Tiger Stadium and the Field of Dreams.
Learn more about The University of Olivet and the robust student life offerings by scheduling a campus visit. Contact the Office of Admissions at 800.456.7189 or admissions@uolivet.edu with questions.