From his home in Brandon, Manitoba, Loran volunteer and donor, John Kelleher devotes his time and expertise to service, committed to advocating for community, conservation, and developing engaged citizens in Canada.
Since joining the Board of Directors of Polar Bears International (PBI) in 2014, John has been a steadfast advocate for Arctic conservation. He served as Chair of the Board for three years and continues to act as an ambassador for PBI’s mission: advancing science-based awareness and action on climate change. His leadership helps ensure that PBI remains a trusted global voice in protecting polar bears and their habitat.
John’s commitment to leadership development led him to the Loran Scholars Foundation, introduced through a personal connection who spoke passionately about its mission. What immediately resonated with John was Loran’s unique and holistic approach to identifying and nurturing young people with leadership potential. Drawn to Loran’s focus on character, integrity, and service, rather than solely on achievement, John joined the Loran community in a myriad of ways. He has seen and experienced firsthand the power of investing in young people who lead with purpose, as a mentor, a volunteer, and an underwriting donor, matched by Loran with Katie Yu (‘24) from Iqaluit, Nunavut.
What inspires John most about supporting Loran is seeing a tangible impact on each scholar and the collective force they become as individuals who combine intellect with empathy, and ambition with service. It is, he says, “a privilege to help build this community of people who truly make a difference.”
Loran Scholars Foundation: You generously underwrite a 2024 Loran Scholar. What motivated you to become a Loran Donor in this way?
John Kelleher: Underwriting a scholar is a way for us to give back in a meaningful and lasting way. I’m drawn to the Loran program specifically because it focuses on character, determination, and community involvement—qualities I’ve valued in every person I’ve hired or mentored over the years.
When you support a young person in a rural area, you’re not just helping one individual—you’re helping strengthen the fabric of the entire region. Supporting a scholar means investing in someone who not only shows promise but who is likely to turn around and lift others in the future. That ripple effect is what motivates me.
Spending my entire career working in communities outside the major centres, I’ve seen how much potential exists in young people from rural areas—and how often that potential goes unnoticed. For 35 years in the automotive business, leading three Ford dealerships, I worked with countless young people who had the work ethic, character, and grit, but lacked the same access to opportunities as those in larger cities. I believe that leadership can come from anywhere, and it’s important to make sure young people in places like rural Manitoba and the north have every chance to show what they’re capable of.
“When you support a young person in a rural area, you’re not just helping one individual—you’re helping strengthen the fabric of the entire region. Supporting a scholar means investing in someone who not only shows promise but who is likely to turn around and lift others in the future. That ripple effect is what motivates me.”
When you connected Loran with Polar Bears International as a Loran Summer Employment partner, why did you think it would be a good fit?
I initiated the connection between Loran and PBI because I saw a natural and powerful synergy between their respective missions. Both organizations are deeply committed to fostering future leaders who are equipped to tackle complex global challenges. As a science-based conservation organization, PBI is in constant need of bright, passionate, and innovative minds to advance its research, communication, and policy efforts.
Loran Scholars, with their demonstrated leadership, critical thinking skills, and commitment to service, are perfectly suited to contribute to such a cause and benefit from real-world experience in a crucial field. The connection has led to Loran Scholars contributing to PBI’s work as summer interns, gaining unique insights, and strengthening the pipeline of future leaders engaged in environmental stewardship.
Over the past two years, PBI has taken on multiple scholars for Loran Summers, including Kai Chow (’22), who shared his workday on social media. Though they’re all individuals with unique skills and interests, have you noticed traits that unite Loran Scholars?
Loran Scholars who have engaged with PBI consistently demonstrate the core Loran qualities: intellectual curiosity, initiative, and a profound commitment to making a difference. Typically, they have assisted scientists with data analysis related to polar bear ecology or Arctic conservation, helped develop educational materials, or helped develop new educational programs or advocacy initiatives. What always stands out is their ability to quickly grasp complex scientific concepts, their proactive approach to problem-solving, and their natural ability to collaborate effectively within a team. They bring a fresh perspective, a high level of energy, and a genuine passion for environmental issues.
How does Loran’s leadership enrichment program support community-engaged youth who are interested in climate justice and sustainability?
Loran’s contribution to developing eco-conscious leaders is rooted in its holistic approach to leadership development, emphasizing critical thinking, empathy, and a long-term vision. The focus on character ensures scholars are ethical, resilient, and driven by a genuine desire to serve. The program actively cultivates empathy and the ability to work collaboratively. Scholars learn to listen, understand different viewpoints, and find common ground. This is crucial for climate conversations, as it helps bridge divides and fosters a spirit of constructive dialogue rather than confrontation. We need individuals who think beyond national borders, understanding the interconnectedness of global challenges and contributing to international cooperation.
By supporting scholars across a wide range of academic disciplines and encouraging diverse experiences, Loran produces leaders who can connect climate action to various sectors—economics, public policy, engineering, health, and more—recognizing that addressing climate change requires sustained effort and adaptability in the face of evolving challenges. These qualities are essential for navigating the fraught landscape of climate policy and public discourse, leading to more effective, equitable, and widely supported progress towards a sustainable future.
“The program actively cultivates empathy and the ability to work collaboratively. Scholars learn to listen, understand different viewpoints, and find common ground. This is crucial for climate conversations, as it helps bridge divides and fosters a spirit of constructive dialogue rather than confrontation.”
I envision Loran Scholars acting as catalysts for positive change, contributing to something larger than themselves, and using their skills for the greater good. My hope is for all Loran Scholars to develop into resilient, ethical, and highly capable people who are committed to addressing the most complex challenges facing our communities, country, and global society.
What inspires you to continue supporting Loran in different capacities?
The scholars are not just bright; they are genuinely good people with an innate desire to make a difference. Watching them grow, overcome challenges, and commit to diverse fields – from climate science and public policy to healthcare and entrepreneurship – is incredibly rewarding. The Loran network itself is also a huge inspiration; it’s a vibrant community of passionate individuals who support each other and continually strive for positive change. It’s a privilege to be part of building this future leadership cohort for Canada.
John’s generosity strengthens the work of the foundation. Discover ways you can support Loran’s mission as a donor.