“Activities like joining a family dinner really add to the Ignite experience, because they create unique spaces for relationships to form in natural ways, and also leave room for deeper connection.”
Becoming an Ignite Industry Mentor presents an opportunity to build a meaningful relationship with a George Fox University (GFU) Ignite student. For husband and wife Andrew and Kacy Keippela, this looks like opening their home to their Ignite students, Alvin and Olivia.
The Keippela household has hosted two family dinners this semester, welcoming Alvin and Olivia to their home in Portland.
“Kacy baked us an amazing apple caramel bundt cake, and we just learned each other’s stories and what we were hoping to get out of the program,” said Olivia.
Kacy is currently a Senior Manager of Compensation at Adidas, where she has been employed for the last six and a half years. Between the family dinners and coffee shop get-togethers, she and her Ignite student have quickly built a connection.
“I have been completely blown away by how amazing Kacy is. She is down to earth, funny, confident, and so encouraging. I have shared so much with her already, and have felt comfortable being honest and vulnerable. I am so excited to see how our relationship continues to develop into next semester,” said Olivia.
Andrew is currently the Associate Athletic Director for Development at the University of Portland, after a six-year career in sales. In his Ignite bio, Andrew shared his involvement with the program was inspired by a desire to give back: “Throughout my career, I have often wished I had been mentored by others more often. I look forward to connecting with students and sharing insights that I’ve learned along the way,” he said.
Looking ahead, Alvin and Olivia have plans to return to the Keippela residence and decorate Christmas cookies with Kacy, Andrew, and their two sons. “Activities like these really add to the Ignite experience, because they create unique spaces for relationships to form in natural ways, and also leave room for deeper connection,” said Olivia.