Alumni in Action - Connor Keefe ’22

Connor Keefe '22

Highland Heights, OH
 

Connor Keefe ’22 grew up in Highland Heights, immersed in the Saint Ignatius community long before he ever stepped foot on campus as a student. With his father, Matt ’92, cousins, and his uncle, Dr. Darren Keefe ’87 (Languages teacher) all deeply connected to the school. Connor spent much of his childhood at Wildcat football and soccer games. That strong foundation made his decision to ultimately attend Saint Ignatius a natural choice. Still, like many freshmen, Connor arrived not knowing many classmates but over the course of four years found his place within the brotherhood.

Connor points to the school’s block schedule as a major benefit. The longer class periods not only helped him build stronger relationships with classmates but also prepared him well for college. “The block schedule mirrors college life in a lot of ways,” Connor said. “It helps with time management, attention span, and planning your day.” Those habits have stayed with him, as he continues to write out a to-do list each night to prepare for the next day.

During his time at Ignatius, several mentors left a lasting imprint on Connor. Coach Tom Bogen introduced him to golf, but more importantly, showed him how to carry himself with composure, discipline, and integrity, especially in challenging situations. In the classroom, Mr. Joe Zebrak ‘87 helped shape Connor’s understanding of what it means to be a Man for Others, influencing how he approaches his daily life.

Connor also fully embraced the Ignatius experience beyond the classroom. He played lacrosse as a freshman and sophomore, while competing on the golf team his sophomore and senior seasons. He persevered being cut twice before ultimately contributing to a State Championship team his senior year. Outside of athletics, he was deeply involved in Student Senate all four years, serving in a slate position, and participated in the St. Benedict Joseph Labre Ministry and the St. Joseph of Arimathea Pallbearers Society. 

Looking back on his time as a student, Connor emphasizes that some of the most meaningful growth happens beyond the school day. “Everyone goes to school from 8 to 3,” he said. “But you really grow from 3 to 6 - through sports, clubs, extracurriculars, and everything after school.”

Connor currently attends the University of Dayton, where he’s taken on a leadership role in one of the most innovative student-run organizations in the country: Flyer Enterprises. 

Operating as a fully student-led business, Flyer Enterprises generates nearly $3 million in annual revenue and employs close to 300 students across multiple divisions. Connor started as a sales associate and steadily worked his way up through the organization, ultimately serving as Chief Executive Officer. 

“It’s 100% run by students,” Connor explained. “We handle everything - staffing, inventory, hiring, finances, and operations.”

During his time with Flyer Enterprises, Connor helped launch FE Delivery, a new on-campus food delivery service designed to meet growing student demand. The initiative required collaboration across departments and a partnership with campus dining, ultimately leading to increased revenue and improved service for students. Along the way, Connor also gained firsthand experience navigating real business challenges, including adapting to declining enrollment by focusing on efficiency and strategic decision-making.

“Early on, you have to be a sponge, listen and learn,” he said. “But as a leader, it becomes about motivating others and helping people believe in what you’re building.”

Connor is currently pursuing an accelerated path to earn both his undergraduate degree and a master’s in accounting. He has accepted a position with Ernst & Young in Chicago and hopes to continue growing into executive leadership roles throughout his career.

When asked what advice he would offer current Saint Ignatius students, Connor encourages them to fully embrace the opportunities around them. “Don’t just go to school from 8 to 3 and do the bare minimum. Get involved. Those experiences are what set you apart.” He also emphasizes the importance of small, intentional actions in living out the mission of Ignatius. “It’s the little things—holding the door, taking a few seconds to help someone. You can choose to make someone’s day better.”

Through his leadership, perseverance, and commitment to growth, Connor Keefe ’22 continues to live out what it means to be a Man for Others.