Junior Achievement’s Business Week, underwritten by OppenheimerFunds, kicked off on Sunday with a very enthusiastic keynote speaker; Keith Jones. This inspiring speech was given to almost 200 high school students and their parents to prepare and motivate them for the upcoming high-energy week ahead. Keith Jones is a Chef, entrepreneur, and author of “Cooking Up Your Dreams”. His positive attitude and ability to bring laughter and muse to students was extremely entertaining.

Keith began speaking about how important it is to never give up on your dreams, and explained that we all have a gift to give. “You never know when you’re going to meet the person or situation that is going to change your life”, Keith re-iterated over and over again. “Remember that learning never stops and neither does education”, Keith continued. As he frolicked into the air showing these apprehensive teens how important enthusiasm for life and learning can be expressed.

Watching the wide-eyed and eager Business Week audience there was no speculation that they were going to carry Keith’s energy on into the rest of the week. This orientation and welcome was also filled with a great introduction to all of the wonderful volunteers who would be heading up each group of students who will be coming together and creating a company this week. Can’t wait to see all the inspiration and ideas they put together!