“I’m of the belief that in times of great challenges, there is also great opportunity.”
James Bailey, ’03, M.S. ’04, came to Kent State University in pursuit of diverse and new experiences. The university delivered, providing him with challenging academic coursework and fostering deep connections to his fellow Golden Flashes. A recipient of the Barry and Jo Ann Fetterman Scholarship, James also served as a Kent Student Ambassador, which later led him to join the Alumni Association’s National Board of Directors. Now a vice president and relationship manager at PNC Capital Advisors, James credits the Master of Science in Financial Engineering program with preparing him for a successful career. He’s remained close to the university over the years, establishing two endowed funds to help current and future students. In July 2025, he will add another uniquely Kent State experience to his resume: serving as Foundation Board Chair for his alma mater. While he knows the role will come with challenges, James is excited for the new opportunities to strengthen Kent State’s role as a regional, national and global leader. Get to know James in his own words.
KSU: What is your idea of perfect happiness?
JB: Sitting on a porch, watching waves or a lake, a cold drink, and the passing of time with those I love and friends.
KSU: What is your favorite trait in others?
JB: Authenticity
KSU: What trait about yourself do you like least?
JB: Obsessiveness.
KSU: Who has had the greatest influence on your life?
JB: My parents taught me right and wrong, my grandparents taught me hard work and selflessness.
KSU: What is your favorite Kent State memory?
JB: Watching the Elite Eight run the college basketball team had in 2001-02.
KSU: What is your favorite journey?
JB: Life. Every day can be a great journey if you allow it to be.
KSU: What is your guilty pleasure?
JB: Peanut Butter M&Ms and Enstrom’s Toffee!
KSU: What do you consider your greatest achievement?
JB: My three children: Emma, Anna and Bryce.
KSU: If you could come back as one person, who would it be and why?
JB: Ulysses S. Grant, the most underrated and maybe most important American of all time.
KSU: What part of your college experience most formed who you are today?
JB: It’s a tie actually. The first is the Financial Engineering program I completed. It played a massive role in who I am and where I am today. The second is Kent State’s Student Ambassadors, a wonderful program that taught me so much.