J.J. Kelley, a University of Minnesota Duluth graduate who has gone on to make documentaries about his adventures around the globe, spoke to students at Solon Campus Center this Tuesday, Sept. 28.

Kelley’s impressive biography lists his work as a producer and correspondent for National Geographic, as a commercial director, TV host, and global explorer. 

Department Head and Professor of the College of Education and Human Service Professions, Ken Gilbertson, smiled with pride at his former student. Ladona Tornabene, Associate Professor of the same College, cheered as Kelley described his life’s work.

According to Kelley, he chooses to create projects about science and make each topic relatable. To do this, he spends time with scientists and visually documents what they do. 

“I didn’t really know what I wanted to do until I found the outdoors,” said Kelley. 

He began collecting people’s stories as he went on hikes, kayaking trips, and explorations of Alaska. 

Kelley found that he wanted to tell the stories he was hearing and UMD became the next step. “I wouldn’t be where I am today without UMD,” he said. 

Persistence and a love for the outdoors paid off, Kelley secured an internship at National Geographic and began to learn the art of filmmaking. 

But the road to success was not a straight shot. He quit his job at National Geographic and set out to make his own documentary, citing his love for the outdoors as a reason for leaving the office.

After a 1,300 mile kayaking trip in handmade kayaks, and putting every part of filmmaking into practice, Kelley went back to National Geographic.

“I’ve made a lot of horrible films and every film is a stepping stone to a better one,” said Kelley. 

Now a producer and correspondent for National Geographic, among many other projects, Kelley’s practice with the camera has come in handy. 

“Warlords of Ivory,” the Emmy-nominated documentary, is perhaps his most known project. Taking place in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kelley was part of the small team who learned the secrets of the ivory trade first hand.

Through his work Kelley has learned “how to tell stories and make them accessible to the population.” 

At the end of the lecture many people swarmed Kelley, pictures were taken, questions were asked, and heartfelt congratulations were given.

As someone who started out with a love for nature and turned that passion into an incredible career, it’s no wonder he is now recognized as a CEHSP Outstanding Alumni.