Jim King is the recipient of the 2026 Myra Oliver Award, which honors individuals whose sustained dedication and compassionate leadership have made a meaningful impact on the lives of refugees and immigrant communities.

As a leader at Eljen Corporation, Jim King has demonstrated a deep and enduring commitment to creating opportunities for those seeking safety, stability, and a new beginning in Connecticut. Through his leadership, Eljen has welcomed refugees from across the world—including individuals and families from Bosnia and Ukraine—providing not only meaningful employment, but also a pathway to dignity, independence, and long-term success.

Jim’s approach reflects a belief that opportunity should be extended to all who are willing to work hard and contribute. His efforts to build a workforce that includes both refugees and American veterans speak to a broader vision of unity—bringing together people from different backgrounds and life experiences to work side by side in strengthening local communities.

An Iraq War veteran, Jim brings a deeply personal understanding of service and sacrifice to his work. His honorable military service continues to shape his commitment to supporting fellow veterans, including those navigating post-traumatic stress and the lasting impacts of war. Through his leadership and advocacy, he has helped create spaces of support, purpose, and stability for those who have served.

In embodying the values of compassion, service, and inclusion, Jim King’s leadership reflects the enduring legacy of Myra Oliver—a tireless advocate and friend to immigrant communities. His work stands as a powerful example of how the private sector can play a transformative role in supporting refugee resettlement and advancing shared prosperity across Connecticut.