John Y. Kim '87 MBA Speaks at Undergraduate Commencement 2009
Storrs, CT (6/2/2009) - On May 10, 2009, John Y. Kim ’87, distinguished UConn School of Business alum and Chief Executive Officer of New York Life Investment Management, LLC (NYLIM), addressed an audience of over 500 graduating seniors, their families, and University faculty and staff at the Gampel Pavilion at the UConn Storrs campus in Storrs, CT.
Kim, a self-described “recession graduate” of the 1980s notes that, like the graduates, he “came into the job market just as this country was experiencing its last big recession” and that despite the climate then and now, he truly believes that “the future holds tremendous opportunities.” He offered the graduates some words of advice - “continue to learn, work hard and be passionate in everything you do.”
John Kim also noted that “hard work is perhaps not a sufficient criterion for success but certainly a necessary one,” both to become a successful CEO as well as giving back through philanthropic activities. On this note, Kim spoke to the hard work and value of the UConn Foundation Board of Directors, a philanthropic tax-exempt corporation that operates exclusively to promote the educational, scientific, cultural, and recreational objectives of the University of Connecticut where Kim has just completed his 10 year term limit.
Kim also spoke to the importance of seeking a life of continuing education. Addressing the graduates, he charged them to “develop and secure passion in your life starting with your career,” as happiness, productivity and pride in oneself as well as the institutions and people around us go hand in hand.
Photo: John Y. Kim '87
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