Joseph Salmen enjoys giving back to Westminster College by sharing his professional experiences with current students. Through speaking engagements and opportunities to work alongside students, he finds it rewarding to help them explore the many career paths available to accounting graduates and see how their Westminster education can translate into different professional opportunities. Learn a little more about Joseph's engagement with WC as a student and still today... 
 

Why did you choose Westminster College? 

I had plans to continue to play football and baseball, and Westminster was a good fit for those plans. 
 

What have you been up to since graduation? 

My wife, Kaylee, and I live in Hermitage with our 2 children, Averie and Joey. I coach high school basketball and football at Hickory. My wife and I are expecting our third child in February 2027. 
 

How well did Westminster prepare you for your career? Was there a professor who influenced you most and why? 

Professor Ligo was, and continues to be, a major influence and mentor throughout my professional career. He has a way of being relatable and approachable while maintaining a strong professional work ethic that encourages students to hold themselves accountable. At Westminster, I was challenged to think critically in the classroom, but never felt like I was on my own. Professors like Professor Ligo were always willing to provide guidance, support and mentorship along the way. 
 

What internships or student research projects did you conduct during your time at Westminster? 

During my time at Westminster, I was a Tax/Financial Analyst intern at JFS Wealth Advisors. Professor Ligo helped me to secure this opportunity and it was a great chance to engage with other Westminster alumni too.  
 

What makes the Westminster College experience unique? 

The welcoming environment and strong sense of community make Westminster feel like home, where everyone is supported, connected and encouraged to succeed. 
 

What significant life lesson did you learn at Westminster? 

Be on time, be accountable, and most importantly, be positive. As Professor Ligo would put it; Be a Net Provider of Energy. 
 

How do you continue to stay connected with Westminster? 

I enjoy staying connected with Westminster by working with and sharing my experiences with current students. For the past four years, Professor Gary Swanson has invited me to join students Ben Kelly and now Tom Rook in the Titan Radio booth for one football broadcast each year. During the broadcasts, I help students better understand the game by explaining coaching decisions, player responsibilities and game strategy. I also enjoy returning to campus to speak with Professor Ligo's accounting capstone classes, where I share my career journey at JFS Wealth Advisors and discuss opportunities beyond the traditional CPA path. 
 

Why should a prospective student consider coming to Westminster College? 

The environment, the education, the people. Westminster gave me the foundation to grow both personally and professionally. The relationships I built, the experiences I had, and the lessons I learned continue to shape who I am and what I do today. 
 

Knowing what you know now, what piece of advice would you give to yourself on that first day on campus? 

Be open to change and take advantage of the professors that are willing to help. 
 

Interested in giving your time to Westminster? 

Like Joseph, you can make a difference by sharing your time, talents, and experiences with current students. Whether it's speaking to a class, mentoring students or participating in campus activities, there are many ways to stay connected and support the next generation of Titans.  
 

Volunteer with Westminster College: www.westminster.edu/volunteer

Connect with Joseph on LinkedIN: Joseph Salmen, CFP® | LinkedIn

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