Alum Ben Kesler’s Journey from Greenville University to NPower Missouri
Published: October 25, 2024
Author: Liz Dowell
Ben Kesler, a 2002 Greenville University alumnus, former employee, and current executive director of NPower Missouri, is a living testament to the transformative power of a Greenville education.
With a background in music that evolved into a career focused on workforce development, Kesler’s path is a remarkable example of innovation, resilience, and servant leadership.
AN OHIO UPBRINGING AND THE CALL OF MUSIC
Originally from Bellefontaine, Ohio, Kesler was raised in a large family. When choosing a college, Kesler found Greenville University’s contemporary music program to be what he was looking for, and the campus visit sealed the deal for him.
“It just felt like home. Everyone was so warm and welcoming. There was this creative energy in the air, and everything seemed accessible,” Kesler recalls. He entered Greenville with a love for music and an ambition to make his mark in the industry.
GREENVILLE’S INFLUENCE ON LEADERSHIP
Reflecting on his time at Greenville University, Kesler speaks fondly of the collaborative environment that shaped his approach to leadership. Collaboration became one of his core values when performing in music ensembles or engaging in general education courses.
“Greenville taught me the importance of putting myself in situations where I could grow, even if it was uncomfortable,” Kesler says.
This mentality—embracing challenges for growth—became a guiding principle in his career, particularly in his leadership roles in the nonprofit and workforce development sectors.
FROM MUSIC TO WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
After spending years in the music industry, playing guitar, producing, and working with Grammy-winning artists, Kesler was invited back to Greenville in 2007 to teach. He fell in love with higher education and continued to work in various teaching roles while staying connected to music.
His journey took an unexpected turn when he was approached by NPower, a nonprofit organization focused on workforce development, especially in the tech sector. At nearly 40, Kesler made a transition to lead NPower Missouri, which was a big change for him, but God led the way.
“I had never worked outside of music, but the opportunity to help others through workforce development was something I couldn’t pass up,” said Kesler.
SERVANT LEADERSHIP IN ACTION
One of the most significant influences from Kesler’s time at Greenville was the model of servant leadership exemplified by faculty and staff.
“The humility of the leaders I encountered at Greenville, their willingness to roll up their sleeves and work alongside us, deeply inspired me,” Kesler reflects.
It’s a lesson he carries with him as he leads NPower Missouri, an organization that bridges the digital divide by providing tech training to underserved communities.
In his current role, Kesler oversees programs that prepare students for the rapidly evolving tech landscape, including integrating AI into the workforce. He seeks innovative ways to help students adapt, ensuring their careers aren’t just sustainable but thriving.
A LIFELONG LEARNER WITH A LEGACY OF GROWTH
Kesler’s advice for current and future Greenville students? “Swing big. Take risks. Don’t be afraid to fail,” he says. “Failures are subjective, and we often perceive failure as simply an opportunity to learn or pivot. The more you take risks, the more resilient you become.”
