Kelly is native Arizonan who grew up on a remote cattle ranch in Sunflower. Listening to music on her family’s old record player was a way to connect to the wider world. She was fortunate enough to have excellent music teachers in elementary school and high school, as well as opportunities to perform with school orchestras and a powerhouse marching band (go Dons!). Her experiences of teamwork, sacrifice and the joy of accomplishment were born and fostered alongside other students equally as passionate about music.
Professionally, Kelly has nearly 30 years of serving in the diverse field of social work. She received her Bachelor’s in Social Work at Creighton University, and later in her career pursued her Master’s at Arizona State University. Kelly has been employed in mentoring programs, volunteer management, international education programs for developing countries, crisis intervention and school social work. For the past ten years, she has been a hospital social worker, currently at Phoenix Children’s. Kelly finds fulfillment meeting people in their difficult moments and accompanying them as they navigate unanticipated chapters of life.
Outside of work, Kelly has been the family “conductor” to two fabulous kids and a small brood of vocal pets. She and her husband have been married for 21 years and are excited to contemplate life as empty-nesters. The opportunity to serve on the board of Rosie’s House is a delight and honor, as it fully aligns with her belief that music is life-giving and transformational.