She received her Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from the University of Kansas. Her studies focused on the individual strengths in children, adolescents, and young adults. Dr. Kelly was named one the University of Kanasas' Women of the Distinction. Prior to beginning her role as consultant for the Gallup Organization, she served as Director of Counseling at Baker University. Dr. Kelly has contributed scholarly articles to psychology journals. She recently authored chapters in the book, Positive Psychology in Practice, and a 4-volume series titled Positive Psychology Perspectives. Dr. Bowers has been named as a Positive Psychology Fellow by the Gallup Organization and serves on the board of the Michigan Autism Partnership.