A Q&A with Jay Franklin '97

Even after your four years at LVC, you are still a part of our tight-knit community. With an extensive alumni network, you can always stay in contact with your alma mater through many opportunities. Jay Franklin ’97, vice president of NRG Controls Inc., is one such graduate. Here, he reflects on his experiences as a Dutchman, and how LVC helped him reach his fullest potential. 

Franklin, a graduate of the biology program, develops strategic initiatives utilizing existing and emerging technologies to increase NRG clients’ operational and energy efficiency. His employer is a sponsor of LVC’s Homecoming celebration and Franklin looks forward to a return to The Valley.

 

Q: Why did you choose LVC?

A: LVC excelled in science, which was what I was interested in. I also thought I would thrive in the small school environment. It was certainly a hidden gem at the time.

 

Q: How has LVC prepared you for a career in your field?

A: I was a good student coming out of high school, but I didn’t realize until college that I lacked critical thinking and analytical skills. Every faculty member I interacted with at LVC worked to develop those skills with me, and kept strengthening them.  Being able to view challenges from many aspects has greatly contributed to my success.

 

Q: What is your favorite memory from The Valley? What activities were you involved in as a student?

A: I had so many great times from a social perspective that it’s hard to name a favorite. As a student, I was a member of Tau Kappa Epsilon. However, my favorite memory, the one that sticks with me most, is when a senior student approached me. He told me I was one of the brightest kids he came across, and that I had so much potential. He urged me to bear down and focus. That one conversation was a life changer.

 

Q: Who was your favorite professor and why?

A: Dr. Paul Wolf. He believed in me, challenged me, and never lowered the bar. He gave me the skills to reach that bar of standards myself. This was very much my experience with the entire science faculty.

 

Q: Why do you support LVC personally and professionally?

A: I support LVC because I strongly believe in its mission. Not all colleges and universities prepare students for the outside world the way LVC does. I know this from personal experience.