Beaver Reflections: 
I graduated from Beaver in 1984. My time there was marked with personal growth and incredible learning opportunities throughout the various subjects. I remember the encouragement I received from teachers that pushed me to be my best. I was also a runner and did cross country throughout my years at Beaver. One of my favorite funny memories involves what is now the student art gallery but used to be a student lounge. During my freshman and sophomore years, students were allowed to smoke cigarettes in that room. It always stands out to me because it shows not only how times were back then but how much Beaver has changed since my time. Finally, looking back, I remember being the first white member of the Black Student Union. At the time it was a fun experience, as I was friends with many of the members. However, looking back I realize that I probably should have not been a member as that was a safe space for them to be in an inclusive environment with like-minded people.

What is #happeningnow in your life:
I feel like I have had three different lives since graduating from Beaver. I went to Boston University and enjoyed my time there. Following my college graduation, I moved to New York and made my way through the Macy’s Executive Program and had a whole retail career. This then led me into a marketing career at Bose Speakers where I was the marketing director. I am now in my third and hopefully final career because during the pandemic, I started a small batch gourmet cookie company called Jim’s Munchy Madness (https://jimsmunchymadness.com/).

“The encouragement and motivation that the students receive from the teachers and faculty at Beaver are unmatched. Ms. Thompson, a past head of the English department once told me, ‘Life is filled with leaders and followers. You are a leader and you have to act like a leader. Be a leader.’ And this quote changed the course of my life.”
– Jim Blankstein ’83

Advice to Beaver students:
“Although it may feel like the most important thing in your life at the time, I promise you that your popularity will not define you later in life. Your opportunity to grow a social network after high school and even college will skyrocket. Do not fear or be saddened by how you view yourself currently in the social scene at Beaver. Another piece of advice is to take one class every year that not only fulfills your credits but also is something you are interested in. Learning about your interests keeps your desire to grow and learn more active than just taking classes that are required.”