Jamie Kelly, an elementary education major from Front Royal, Va., was presented with the Catamounts Climb Higher Award for September 2024 at West Virginia University Potomac State College.
Climb Higher recipients are recognized for their ability to bounce back despite encountering obstacles, for overcoming challenges, and for staying the course. Recipients are also recognized for their outstanding work ethic, kindness, and positive attitude. Although this award is not based on GPA, recipients must be in good academic standing.
In addition to being a full-time student, Kelly serves as a resident assistant on the third floor of University Place. “I love being an advocate for my fellow students and making our hall feel like a safe place for them to live. I always want to make sure they know they can confide in me, whether it’s a problem about friendships or relationships, or an issue about classes,” Kelly said.
Kelly is also an athlete at the College, playing in the positions of infielder and pitcher on the Catamounts softball team. During her freshman year, Kelly was a Catamount Culture Award nominee. She was also named to the All-Region 20 First-Team, and to the All-Tournament Team in the National Junior College Athletic Association. She was a starter in 50 games, had a .448 batting average, a .834 slugging percentage with 65 hits, 57 runs scored, 66 RBI’s, 13 home runs, and a .891 fielding percentage.
Kelly had surgery on her shoulder this past summer for a labrum repair, as well as tendonitis and bursitis cleanup. She stated that she does still struggle with the little things sometimes.
“I’m the type of athlete who will play through any injury as long as I can help my team. I have to be reminded all the time that I need to take this recovery day-by-day if I want to continue playing. I cannot rush the recovery process. I can now hit at a hundred percent, but throwing from third base to first base has been a bit of a struggle. I have made big progress with throwing and come spring, I plan on playing and throwing at one hundred percent again.”
Kelly enjoys volunteering her time locally and in her hometown. She assisted with unloading trucks of food at the Food Pantry in Keyser. She participated with fellow teammates at the PSC Softball Camp where she taught the fundamentals of softball to grades third through tenth. In addition, she bagged food for children with the Food for Thought Backpack Program.
Kelly also donated her time to work several shifts with the Brody Elite Basketball Tournaments in her hometown. Brody Michael, who was a close friend of Kelly’s, unexpectedly passed away in October 2020.
Kelly stated that she chose Potomac State College because both the College and Keyser community remind her of the tight-knit Front Royal community.
“I love how small each class is, so you get lots of one-on-one time with your professors, and I absolutely love how beautiful the scenery is in the fall when the trees change colors.”
Kelly’s future plans include earning her bachelor's degree in elementary education as well as coaching softball and basketball.
When asked what guidance she would share with incoming students, Kelly had this to say: “Protect your mental health. College is filled with new experiences, people, and work, which can take a toll on your mental and physical well-being. Keep an open mind and be willing to step out of your comfort zone. While academics are important, don’t forget to take care of yourself. Make time for friends, hobbies, and relaxation. Finding a balance between your studies and personal life is crucial. Surround yourself with people who lift you up. Those are the people who want to see you succeed and live your life to the fullest potential. Lastly, don’t hesitate to ask for help, everyone goes through hard times at different points in life. Utilizing available resources can make a big difference in your mental health. Remember, this is your journey, and it’s okay to take it one step at a time.”