Jami Ballentine Dolby
Director of Development
Maryville University
St. Louis, MO
Focus St. Louis
Regional Business Council Young Professionals Network
Volunteer and Lifetime member, Girl Scouts
Delux Cares, board member
The Demetrious Johnson Charitable Foundation, board member
St. Louis Montessori School, board member
In short, what do you do?
I am a connection broker and master connector! I use my connections amongst professionals in a multitude of industries to help make a stronger St. Louis. I work to advance change and legacy building by raising funds for scholarships so that every student can have the opportunity to attend and succeed in college.
The critical need for greater diversity and inclusion in higher education has come into the spotlight in recent years. What progress do you see at Maryville?
One of the big things I’ve seen during my time at Maryville University is how innovative we show up in the diversity and inclusion space. Diversity and global awareness is a core value of the university and it shows through our every growing multicultural program which includes two Donald Suggs scholarships each year. We are also intentional with our professional development and support for staff and faculty as we are all working with a diverse population of students.
You’re a great ambassador for St. Louis. What does the city have going on that you love to tell people about?
St. Louis is a city full of professionals that will support you and give back to the community. I hear too often that our city doesn’t have this or we don’t support it, but I just haven’t found that to be true. St. Louis is a great place for young professionals to become engaged, grow and really provide the input our city needs to become a leader in so many areas. Beyond the cost of living, and free amenities, St. Louis has been and will continue to be a place not just where you get your start but where you leave your legacy.
Tell us a bit about your commitment to raising awareness about Lupus.
After being diagnosed with Lupus several years ago, I did not want to tell my family and friends and chose not to for months. But after receiving support from others in the Lupus community I realized using my voice to serve as an ambassador and voice was needed. I’m excited to join the Lupus Foundation of America and serve as the Celebrity Emcee for the 2019 Heartland Chapter walk on May 19th. Join Team Purple Power and walk with me!
What are your top three most-used apps?
Notability, Instagram, and LinkedIn (I write everything down, enjoy capturing the moments and sharing the memories, and you can never do too much networking).
