A Journey of Service and Leadership: Jason Howell Reflects on His Path from Albertus Magnus College
Jason Howell ‘20, shared his knowledge about his journey from a student leader to being an enrollment manager at Future Forward Connecticut. From our conversation, it became clear to me that Jason’s career path is not just a profession but a calling, shaped by his love for education, his determination for student success, and his desire to give back to the community. Jason’s story is one of resilience, gratitude, and purpose. He was a first-generation college student and embraced every opportunity given to him at Albertus. He made the most of every opportunity, using both his time and his skills to affect the world around him-in- and out-of-the-classroom. From serving as Student Government Association (SGA) President to earning his B.A. in Philosophy and Religion, Jason laid down a foundation that continues to shape his work today.
Now an enrollment manager at Future Forward Connecticut, Jason ensures students have access to affordable and accelerated degree programs that get them ready for success in their futures. He approaches this with the same principles that characterized his time at Albertus: having faith in education, a commitment to equity, and the determination to leave a meaningful impact on the lives of students. The leap from student to leader and graduate to advocate summarizes in essence what it is to be an alumnus of Albertus.
Choosing Albertus – or a Calling?
When asked about his decision to go to Albertus Magnus College, Jason smiled with a sense of gratitude as he said that, in many ways, the College had chosen him. He had limited options for a higher level of education coming out of high school and was unsure of which direction to take. Albertus saw something in him, an opportunity that very few other institutions had given Jason. He said that did become a critical point in his life that set him on a path he had not a notion of where it could take him in terms of growth, both academic and personal.
“Albertus gave me the chance to excel in my education and leadership,” Jason said. The College provided him with not just a place to study but a supportive environment where he could develop into a strong leader. It was a place where he was encouraged to take risks, step into new roles, and push himself beyond his limits. He quickly realized that Albertus was more than just a school, it was a community that truly cared about his success and well-being. His choice to major in philosophy and religious studies was equally as transformative. While some might question the practicality of such a degree, Jason believes it provided him with an intellectual foundation that continues to shape his career in many different ways. Studying philosophy helped his critical thinking skills, teaching him how to analyze complex problems and approach challenges with a well-rounded perspective. His studies in religious traditions and ethical frameworks deepened his understanding of human nature, community, and service, values that remain at the heart of his professional mission today.
The Pillar of Study
Discussing Albertus Magnus College’s Pillar of Study, Jason emphasized how it played a crucial role in shaping both his academic experience and professional path. He credited this pillar for seamlessly bridging the gap between theoretical learning and real-world application, allowing him to take the knowledge and skills developed in the classroom and translate them into meaningful contributions in his career.
“It provided me with a liberal arts education that I value immensely,” he explained. Jason believes that the well-rounded, interdisciplinary approach of a liberal arts education helped him cultivate a mindset that is both analytical and adaptable, an invaluable asset in today’s ever-evolving job market. Whether he was engaging in thought-provoking discussions in his philosophy and religious studies courses, collaborating with classmates on group projects, or honing his leadership abilities as SGA President, every aspect of his education contributed to his development as a critical thinker and problem-solver.
A Message of Gratitude
Jason, who also serves as the Vice President of the College’s Alumni Advisory Council, shared a heartfelt reflection on his journey, one shaped by resilience, purpose, and a deep commitment to others. “I’m just a kid from Bridgeport who took a chance on himself,” he said humbly, encapsulating the spirit that has driven him from an uncertain student to a leader making a meaningful impact. For Jason, success has never been solely about personal accomplishments; it has always been about using his experiences and position to uplift those around him. “I remain committed to serving and giving back to my community,” he added. This dedication is not just a career ambition, it’s a guiding principle that defines his life.