Marked by determination and a passion for helping others, the journey of Jaheim Mckie AS’25,’27 reflects the values that guide him both inside and outside the classroom.
Born in Kingston, Jamaica, college wasn't always part of Mckie's plan. After high school, he intended to start working full-time right away, until involvement in church and community activities opened a door he hadn't expected.
When the chance to attend Fairfield Bellarmine arose, Mckie recalled thinking, “I can't let this opportunity pass." He joined the inaugural class on Bellarmine Campus in September 2023, drawn by the program's close-knit sense of community. "Every time someone asks me what it's like there, I tell them it's a small environment where everyone grows to become family," he said.
That sense of community, combined with close mentorship from professors and administrators, helped Mckie thrive academically and personally. He received his associate’s degree in business in May 2025 and is now enrolled in a bachelor’s degree program at Fairfield University’s Charles F. Dolan School of Business.
Over the summer, Mckie returned to Bellarmine Campus as a teaching assistant to mentor incoming students and guide them through the start of their first college semester. He immediately hit it off with the new class. "The incoming students formed close bonds with him because he is relatable," said Pamela Tolbert-Bynum Rivers, EdD, Fairfield Bellarmine’s associate dean for academic affairs. "At one point, Jaheim led the class in a conversation about professionalism and academic norms. This was so well-received that many students—and the professor—noticed a marked and positive change in classroom dynamics."
Faculty and peers alike point to Mckie as a model of Jesuit accompaniment—walking alongside others with empathy and integrity. "Jaheim exemplifies student leadership through accountability, initiative, and a consistent commitment to the success of his community," said PeJay Lucky, assistant dean for student success at Fairfield Bellarmine. "Whether as a peer mentor, club facilitator, or a summer teaching assistant, he leads by example—creating supportive spaces where others feel empowered to learn, grow, and lead."
While a student at Fairfield Bellarmine, one of Mckie's most significant contributions was the co-founding of Brothers of Bellarmine, a student-led group dedicated to fostering mentorship, open dialogue, and peer support. The group continues to serve as a space where students can share experiences, build meaningful connections, and grow together. “Jaheim created a welcoming environment that continues to enrich the campus community," said Brian Leonelli-Blain, the Bellarmine program’s associate director of financial aid.
Currently majoring in accounting at Fairfield Dolan, Mckie has aspirations to work for one of the Big Four accounting firms. The key to success, he believes, lies in embracing opportunity. "One thing that I tell new students is to be optimistic, be in the moment, and try to embrace every opportunity that presents itself, because at Bellarmine, there are so many opportunities,” he said. “I tell them: be someone to leave an indelible impression on the campus. Try to be that person. Whatever opportunity presents itself, be on it, be ready."
