Jason Bridges

Jason Bridges embarked on a unique journey after surviving a major brain injury as a teenager from a car accident. He found through his struggle post-accident that the most crucial thing in building success was the relationships he built with the people around him.

He is the Director of Development at Lake Erie College and has formerly served as the CEO of Nantucket Bike Tours and Handlebar Cafe, both based in Nantucket, MA. Additionally, he contributed significantly to his community as the Public Outreach Manager for the Town of Nantucket. His work in this role primarily involved enhancing community engagement and developing digital resources. Furthermore, Bridges holds an elected position on the Nantucket Select Board, a testament to his devotion to his community.

Extending his influence beyond his business and civic roles, Bridges is also a leadership coach. He is committed to the improvement of emotional intelligence and incorporates this focus into his coaching. He offered internships at Nantucket Bike Tours, specifically designed for Wabash College students, centered on developing Emotional Intelligence (EQ) skills. In his teachings, Bridges emphasizes the importance of EQ in both personal and professional success and provides methods to enhance it. One such unique method is the "smile challenge," aiming to improve self-awareness, social awareness, empathy, and relationships.

A 1998 alumnus of Wabash College, Bridges has maintained a strong connection with his alma mater. He returned to deliver a Chapel Talk, titled "Please, Please Lower Your GPA," a unique perspective in the academic realm. His adopted motto, "Be interested, not interesting," encapsulates his teachings on emotional intelligence and his overall approach to life and business. His eclectic mix of experiences and accomplishments equip him to speak on a wide range of topics, including emotional intelligence, leadership, and community engagement.