From Wisdom to Wins
“There is nothing more American than a great comeback story.” That’s what ACP Mentor Brad Rossi told his Protégé, Navy Veteran Daniel Kelly, after their first mentorship meeting. Brad sensed that Daniel’s incredible trajectory – from Sailor, to convicted felon, to current MBA candidate – would inspire and motivate those lucky enough to hear it.
Daniel’s experience with ACP exemplifies the power of mentorship to turn challenges into possibilities. Like many Veterans, Daniel faced external and internal difficulties after leaving the service. In 2016, the struggles that dogged his transition culminated in a suicide attempt, resulting in a felony charge and three-year prison sentence.
Daniel left prison with an intense determination to forge a new path in life. Along with receiving medical treatment for depression and post-traumatic stress, he completed a Bachelor’s degree and became the first college graduate in his family.
In 2023, Daniel reached out to ACP to receive personalized mentorship and connected with Brad, a Founder and Managing Partner of the private equity firm Allied Industrial Partners. From their first meeting, the pair have approached Daniel’s life experiences as assets that could bolster his professional prospects.
Last year, Daniel was accepted into Quinnipiac University’s MBA program, and he’s entering it with confidence buoyed by Brad’s guidance and support.
