By University Communications—
MUNCIE, IN—Ball State University’s Fall 2024 Excellence in Leadership Speaker Series (EIL) event will feature Kelly J. Gordon, one of the world’s most accomplished superyacht captains—also known for her leadership skills and mental health advocacy.
Capt. Gordon, a Ball State University graduate, will deliver her inspiring talk on leadership at 7:30 p.m. on Sept.10 at Pruis Hall on Ball State’s campus. The event is free and open to the public.
“Captain Gordon’s journey from Ball State University to the high seas exemplifies the powerful impact of a Ball State education,” said Olivia Vecchiolli, assistant director for first-year transition and leadership programs in Ball State’s Office of Student Life. “We are thrilled to welcome her back to inspire our campus community by sharing her insights on leadership, and professional and personal growth.”
Lauded for her dedication to her crew’s well-being, Capt. Gordon has led some of the most prestigious yachts worldwide. She is also a public speaker and a social media influencer. Her accolades include being the 2022 recipient of an ACrew yachting award in the Captains (Master 500-GT) category.
In her talk, Capt. Gordon will cover a wide range of topics related to personal and professional growth, including:
- strategies for leading effectively in various circumstances
- overcoming self-doubt and imposter syndrome, and embracing one’s capabilities
- growing from failure and turning setbacks into opportunities
- maintaining mental health and well-being in high-pressure environments
- leading with authenticity and integrity, and staying true to oneself
- finding and pursuing one’s true purpose
An Indiana native, Capt. Gordon earned her bachelor’s degree in chemistry at Ball State’s College of Science and Humanities in 2004. Learn more about Capt. Gordon on her website.
The Excellence in Leadership speaker series provides a platform for some of the nation’s most recognized leaders to share their experiences, insight, and knowledge with our campus. EIL’s past speakers have included business owners, journalists, philanthropists, activists, politicians, political advisors, athletes, coaches, lawyers, film producers, and an Oscar nominee. Each speaker has shared a unique perspective on what it means to lead and how students can strive to make an impact—now and in the future.
The Sept. 10 EIL Speaker Series event featuring Capt. Gordon is sponsored by the Office of Student Life at Ball State.
About Ball State
Founded in 1918 and located in Muncie, Ball State University is one of Indiana’s premier universities and an economic driver for the state. Ball State’s 20,000 students come from all over Indiana, the nation, and the world. The 790-acre campus is large enough to accommodate first-rate facilities and 19 NCAA Division I sports, but our welcoming and inclusive campus is small enough to ensure the friendliness, personal attention, and access that are the hallmarks of the University. Destination 2040: Our Flight Path establishes Ball State’s ambitious goals for our second century. We Fly!
