Former Starbucks CEO encourages Orcas Christian School students to ‘Be More Human’

||| FROM ORCAS CHRISTIAN SCHOOL |||

Orcas Christian School (OCS) is embracing experiential education, providing students with opportunities to learn from leaders with real-world experience.

“We pride ourselves on offering powerful experiences for our students. On October 8, students were able to meet and hear from Jim Donald, a former CEO of Starbucks,” said Principal Joel Shetler.

Donald spoke to OCS students and parents about artificial intelligence (AI), discussing how the technology can help people learn and access information. He explained that AI can give users the knowledge to become the “smartest person in the room,” but emphasized that knowledge alone is not enough.

Donald challenged students to distinguish themselves in a world where AI is becoming increasingly prevalent.

“Be more human. In a world where everyone is getting ‘smarter’ using AI, the smart ones become more human,” Donald said.

During his presentation, Donald shared stories from his time at Albertsons, his interactions with Walmart founder Sam Walton and his journey to becoming CEO of Starbucks. Each story illustrated lessons about the importance of human connection and how people treat one another.

While AI can help people become more knowledgeable, Donald emphasized that it cannot replace the value of human interaction.

“Use your humanity for good! Do the right thing, even when no one is looking, care about your neighbor and those around you, and celebrate the successes of the people around you. Doing these things will elevate and help open doors and experiences you might never have thought
possible,” Donald said.

Shetler said the visit reflected the school’s commitment to connecting students with the broader community and helping them develop character alongside their academic knowledge.

“These opportunities we provide students with are why we have the vision of being community-connected. We want our students to be caring, integral, and selfless enough to celebrate others without the need to take credit for themselves. A massive thank you to Jim Donald for coming
and speaking at our campus,” Shetler said.