BK News

For Rose Walsh Kiesling ’12, the path from classroom to career has been guided by a consistent thread: a desire to grow, serve, and make a meaningful impact. From consulting in the tech world to volunteering abroad with the Peace Corps, and now stepping into a leadership role within her family’s business, Rose’s journey reflects curiosity, commitment, and a deep sense of purpose.

Q: What stands out most from your experience at Bishop Kenny?

A: The friendships I built are some of my most valued relationships. Bishop Kenny also challenged me academically and athletically, which helped me develop strong time management and multitasking skills that I still rely on.

Q: Were there any teachers or coaches who made a lasting impact on you?

A: Yes—Coach Bryan Haffey, who taught my sophomore religion class, had a significant influence on me. I found his lessons on the history of the Catholic Church very engaging, and as a graduate of the University of Notre Dame, he encouraged and guided me through the application process. I also credit Coach Suzanne Winkler, my volleyball coach, for pushing me to reach my full potential and teaching me discipline and perseverance.

Q: What did you pursue after graduating from Bishop Kenny?

A: I attended the University of Notre Dame, where I majored in business and political science. After graduation, I moved to Indianapolis and spent three years participating in the Orr Fellowship, a competitive program focused on retaining graduates in Indiana. During the fellowship, I worked as a technology consultant for Appirio, specializing in cloud consulting. The company was later acquired by Wipro, and I helped with integration efforts before completing the fellowship. I also gained meaningful experience through volunteer and community initiatives.

Q: What led you to join the Peace Corps?

A: In 2019, I felt called to serve others and joined the Peace Corps in Colombia, where my work focused on education in economic development and financial literacy. Although my service was cut short in 2020 due to COVID-19, it had a lasting impact on me and reinforced my desire to continue serving others.

Q: What path did you take after returning home?

A: After returning to Jacksonville, I explored several opportunities before joining the Alfred I. duPont Charitable Trust in December 2020.

Q: What are you doing professionally today?

A: In 2025, I joined my family’s business, Walsh Investment Consulting Group of NFLA Financial Partners. I am preparing to carry on my father’s legacy as he transitions into retirement, and I’m honored to serve his clients and help guide them in managing their financial futures.

Q: How do you stay involved in service and the community?

A: I remain committed to service by providing pro bono financial consulting, serving on the board of San Jose Manor, advocating for foster children as a Guardian ad Litem, and contributing to the finance council at St. Paul’s Riverside. I am also a member of the Ambassador Council at Bishop Kenny alongside my father, Lou.

Q: What do you enjoy doing in your personal time?

A: I recently married my husband, Gordon, who is a Lieutenant in the United States Navy and a P-8 pilot. We enjoy exploring local wineries and spending time at home. I also enjoy cooking, often inspired by Ina Garten, and have recently gotten into making and enjoying ice cream.

Rose continues to lead with the same qualities that have shaped each chapter of her life: curiosity, discipline, compassion, and a heart for service. Whether supporting clients, serving her community, or carrying forward her family’s legacy, she brings purpose and care to the work before her.

Louie Samaan '97 built lasting friendships and left BK with a faith and work ethic that would carry him through a restaurant career, a life-altering accident, the pandemic, and ultimately law school at 42. His story is one of reinvention — and he's not done yet.

Q: What do you remember most about your time at Bishop Kenny?

A: I remember building lifelong friendships that helped shape who I am today. My faith was strengthened, my love for teamwork and sports was encouraged, and my education prepared me for the future.

Q: Did any teachers have a lasting impact on you?

A: My favorite teacher was Coach Orlando, who taught history. He made learning fun and always had great one liners that kept us laughing. It was also memorable having a 6’9 former professional player to talk basketball with.

Q: How were you involved during your time at BK?

A: I played basketball all four years. My favorite memory, though, was being crowned Prom King my senior year, which was a pretty good way to go out.

Q: What path did you take after graduating?

A: I attended the University of Florida and earned a degree in Food and Resource Economics, entering my family’s business and eventually opened my own restaurants. Growing up in the industry made it feel natural, and I found fulfillment in building something of my own, although it required a great deal of dedication and perseverance.

Q: Your career changed significantly later. What led to that?

A: In 2015, I was in a serious accident with a commercial truck. The result was multiple surgeries, years of recovery, and a long legal process. I saw firsthand how hard it is for injury victims to navigate that system. Then COVID hit in 2020 and forced me to close my restaurants. That combination made me rethink everything.

Q: What inspired you to pursue a career in law?

A: Dealing with insurance companies after the accident lit a fire in me. I wanted to be the advocate I needed as I dealt with it all. At 42, I got into Faulkner University's law school in Montgomery. The Executive program let me take classes online and travel for weekend sessions. I worked hard and graduated a year early.

Q: What did that accomplishment mean to you?

A: Walking across the stage at graduation with my family there was one of the most rewarding moments of my life. Having my children see that journey made it even more meaningful. I hope it shows them that it is never too late to pursue a goal. I credit my wife and family for supporting me throughout the process.

Q: Is there something about you that others may not know?

A: I speak fluent Arabic. My parents emigrated from a small town near Jerusalem, and I was able to visit their homeland in high school. It was a special experience where I visited holy sites and walked the original Stations of the Cross.

Q: What do you enjoy doing in your free time?

A: I enjoy being on the water, fishing, and spending time with my family. I also like watching sports, especially Florida Gator football and basketball. Recently, I developed a passion for saltwater fly fishing.

Q: Have you been involved in any recent advocacy or community efforts?

A: I recently traveled to Washington, D.C. and spoke to the Senate to advocate for road safety.

Q: How has your connection to Bishop Kenny continued?

A: Two of my daughters graduated from BK — Haley in 2024, Mikayla in 2026. My youngest, Elisa, is a freshman now and plays basketball. I hope they take away what I did.