Julie Kessler is the founder of Scottsdale-based nonprofit, Oakley’s Oath. The nonprofit was established in 2021 after the accidental drowning of Kessler’s dog, Oakley. Today, Oakley’s Oath strives to protect children and pets from preventable accidents. Learn about Julie Kessler…
Hometown: Phoenix (Native Arizonan)
First job: Gemco Customer Service
Favorite ways to spend your free time in AZ: Hanging on the couch with my hubby/family (including fur baby, Panda), going to art fairs. I like being a “human being” rather than a “human doing.”
Your biggest accomplishment and why: Bringing Oakley’s Oath to life as an organization over the last year. Being able to turn my pain into a purpose to help others instead of wallowing in the pain of losing my dog has been most healing and rewarding, I don’t want any family to have to be in a situation like I was.
The biggest obstacle you overcame: Being OK with a first marriage not working out. Grateful the universe had better plans (as it always does) for me, and this second time around has blessed me with a 25-plus years strong marriage.
Someone who inspires you and why: My parents who have been married 61 years. They do all they can to stay “young” by active, healthy and engaged in life.
Advice to someone pursuing a career path in what you do: Follow through on a cause or passion that is close to your heart, sometimes the passion will develop and find you through life’s unexpected turns and twists, as it often does. It’s a blessing to be able to take a painful situation and turn it into a purpose that can help impact people, ultimately and hopefully to save lives. They have to be committed, focused and surround themselves with great people to help them get their mission out in the right ways.
Favorite quote: “Be yourself. Everyone else is taken.” –Oscar Wilde
Something someone would be surprised to learn about you: According to my husband, I never learned how to load a dishwasher.
What makes someone fabulous: Being kind and real. Authenticity wins every time!