By designing unique, targeted solutions, Kelly has driven major change in a variety of settings. As Founder of OptUp Consulting, an Insights Discovery-based coaching consultancy, Kelly works with clients around the globe to create forward-moving change. A passionate executive coach and advisor, Kelly supports key stakeholders from top organizations, including Amazon Web Services, Target, Convoy of Hope, and MagMutual Insurance Company, and tailors her approach to meet a wide range of topics, from team health & engagement to Board governance and non-profit grant management. In her former work with Vanguard University, Kelly solidified her status as a master of creating comprehensive brand strategies. Throughout her tenure, she launched campaigns, optimized resources, and maximized fundraising, leaving a lasting impression upon the university’s operational sustainability.

Kelly believes organizations are at their best when people are recognized for their gifts. She passionately fosters connections with her clients and creates relationships that last long beyond her engagements. Compelled to learn, to make sense of, and to connect the dots, Kelly, is an expert thought-leader who identifies exciting opportunities and the resources required to achieve mission-critical objectives while igniting growth and inspiring action.

Kelly holds a Master of Divinity from Princeton Theological Seminary and a Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies from the University of Virginia. She started her career as a Development Consultant and Director of Communications with Pursuant (formerly Viscern). In 2008, Kelly worked with Presbyterian Global Fellowship as an Executive Director before joining Vanguard University. While at Vanguard, Kelly held various titles as the Vice President for University Advancement, President of the Vanguard University Foundation, and Vice President for Administration and Public Affairs.

In 2015, Kelly combined two of her passions, non-profit and advisory work, joining educational non-profit THINK Together, before partnering with two key leaders to found Future Church Co., a consulting firm focused on advising and providing resources for local churches and denominational networks of organizations that serve churches.

In all her work, Kelly proves to be a motivational voice, revolutionizing the way individuals and organizations approach team collaboration, motivation, and development, ushering in the next generation of leaders. When not coaching or optimizing non-profit strategy & operations, you can find Kelly playing golf with her husband and two daughters, and spoiling their Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Austin.