It’s Great to meet you!
I believe leadership is messy. And honest. And human.
It’s not about having it all figured out, it’s about choosing to show up anyway.
I work with college students to help them recognize that they’re not “future leaders” someday. They’re already leading right now through the communities they’re building and the choices they make every day. As a former “I was on every committee” student leader turned student affairs professional, I’ve seen how life-changing college can be when students are encouraged to lead with authenticity and courage. My work centers on belonging, vulnerability, and the belief that everyone has influence, even if they don’t yet see it.
I currently serve as the Associate Director of Student Life at Grand Valley State University, where I work alongside leaders as they discover their voice, navigate challenges, and build communities that feel welcoming, inclusive, and real. As a speaker, facilitator, and leadership educator, I’ve facilitated programs across the country and love creating spaces that blend storytelling, reflection, and practical tools that students can actually use.
My approach is grounded, honest, and deeply relational. Students often describe me as someone who cheers them on, challenges them, and reminds them that leadership is less about perfection and more about showing up with intention.
Originally from Ohio, I now call Michigan home, though my loyalty to the Columbus Blue Jackets and Jeni’s Ice Cream has never wavered. Outside of my work, you can usually find me in a local coffee shop, window-shopping through a small-town main street, hosting my hockey podcast, or searching for the perfect bowl of soup. I thrive on live music, long walks that turn into life talks, and the kind of genuine connection that makes people feel seen.
If you’re looking for someone who believes leadership development should feel human, accessible, and a little unpolished, you’re in the right place.
Jeremy Paul | Speaker | Educator 