Evelyn Kelly

Professional Background

Evelyn Kelly is a highly accomplished Director at the Institute for Public Health Innovation (IPHI), where she is dedicated to fostering partnerships that enhance community health and well-being. With over twenty years of extensive experience as a public health practitioner and researcher, Ms. Kelly collaborates with a diverse array of stakeholders, including executives, elected officials, health departments, planning agencies, police departments, funders, and vital community-based organizations, to implement transformative policy, systems, and environmental changes. Her work significantly contributes to improving the quality of life for individuals across various communities.

Ms. Kelly's career is marked by a commitment to advancing public health initiatives that reflect her passion for community development and health equity. Throughout her professional journey, she has engaged in numerous public health efforts that span community planning and capacity building, health policy development, and effective advocacy. She has consistently strived to create pathways for community engagement and promote food justice while focusing on chronic disease prevention.

In her current role, she leads essential programs that are designed to empower local communities and improve health outcomes through strategic planning and implementation of evidence-based initiatives. Ms. Kelly's capacity for interdisciplinary collaboration has positioned her as a respected leader in the field.

Education and Achievements

Evelyn Kelly's educational background lays a strong foundation for her influential career in public health. She holds a Master of Public Health (MPH) with a focus on Physical Activity from the University of South Carolina, where she gained vital insights into enhancing health through physical activity and healthy lifestyle choices. Prior to this, she earned a Bachelor of Science (BS) with Honors in Health Promotion from American University, where she honed her skills in promoting health education and community wellness strategies.

Ms. Kelly's achievements have not gone unnoticed, as she has been recognized for her outstanding contributions to public health. She is a proud alumnus of Leadership Maryland's Class of 2015, a program designed to cultivate leaders who will make a difference in the state. Furthermore, she has been honored as a “Fifty under 50: #Food Hero” for her exemplary work in promoting food justice and has been recognized on the Forty under 40 list for Prince George's County, Maryland. Recently, the Daily Record named her a “Leading Woman,” which celebrates women who are making significant contributions in their fields and the community.

In addition to her leadership roles, Ms. Kelly actively participates in various organizations that further her commitment to health equity and community improvement. She is a member of the Latino Health Steering Committee of Montgomery County and serves as a board member of the Montgomery County Food Council. These affiliations reflect her dedication not only to public health but also to advancing the needs of Latino communities and ensuring equitable access to resources.

Achievements

Evelyn Kelly's career is characterized by numerous notable achievements, reflecting her unwavering commitment to public health and community service. Her leadership at the Institute for Public Health Innovation has positioned her as a foremost voice in implementing effective public health strategies that foster community well-being.

Through her tireless efforts, Ms. Kelly has championed a variety of public health initiatives that prioritize health equity, community organizing, and advocacy. Her work emphasizes the intersectionality between health and social justice, highlighting the importance of collaborative efforts in creating sustainable change.

In recognition of her exceptional contributions, Ms. Kelly has consistently garnered awards that celebrate her impact in the realms of food justice, public health advocacy, and community engagement. Being highlighted within the context of “Fifty under 50: #Food Hero” underscores her innovative approaches to addressing food insecurity and promoting healthy food options in underserved populations. Similarly, her inclusion in the Forty under 40 list for Prince George's County reflects her influence and leadership at a young age, paving the way for emerging professionals in the field of public health.

As a bilingual professional fluent in both English and Spanish, Ms. Kelly possesses the unique ability to engage with and advocate for diverse communities, ensuring that all voices are heard within public health discussions and initiatives. Her passion for serving marginalized communities places her at the forefront of addressing systemic issues that contribute to health disparities.

In conclusion, Evelyn Kelly is a dedicated and influential public health leader whose work embodies the principles of health equity and community empowerment. Her extensive experience, academic background, and commitment to social justice have equipped her with the tools necessary to make a lasting impact on public health practices and policies. As she continues to champion the cause of community health and well-being, Ms. Kelly remains a vital asset in advancing the quality of life for communities she serves.