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Katie Kelly
Advancement Professional
Professional Background
Katie E. Kelly is a dedicated advancement professional with an extensive background in fundraising and relationship management within the educational sector. With a career that highlights her commitment to connecting with donors, alumni, and parents, she has successfully spearheaded initiatives that bolster the missions of educational institutions. Her role as the Associate Director of Annual Giving Engagement at Trinity College in Hartford showcases her expertise in developing and implementing strategic initiatives designed to enhance community involvement and increase funding support for academic programs. By leveraging her strong interpersonal skills and strategic thinking, Katie has been instrumental in creating a culture of giving among supporters.
Before her current position, Katie held the role of Director of Parent Giving and Assistant Director of The Fund For Walker's at The Ethel Walker School. In this capacity, she focused on building robust relationships with the parents of students and advocating for their financial support. Her work was characterized by meticulous planning and execution of various fundraising campaigns that not only met but often exceeded their financial targets, demonstrating her effectiveness in driving engagement and participation at all levels.
Combining her professional experience with her enthusiasm for collaborative work, Katie has established herself as a valuable asset in advancement circles, where fostering connections is crucial. Her approach to alumni and parent giving emphasizes creating inclusive and engaging experiences that resonate with supporters, ensuring that their contributions have a meaningful impact on the institutions they care about.
Education and Achievements
Katie’s educational foundation is rooted in a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Writing, Literature, and Publishing, which she obtained from Emerson College. This academic background has equipped her with exceptional communication skills, fostering her ability to articulate the mission and vision of the institutions she represents. The analytical and creative skills developed through her studies are pivotal in her strategic thinking and ability to craft compelling narratives that inspire potential donors.
Throughout her career, Katie has demonstrated a consistent track record of successful fundraising initiatives, showcasing her ability to drive significant financial support through innovative programming and relationship-building activities. Her efforts have not only resulted in increased funding but have also cultivated a deep sense of community among alumni and parents, instilling in them a lasting commitment to their educational institutions.
Achievements
Katie has several notable achievements throughout her career in advancement that highlight her commitment to excellence and her strategic approach. At Trinity College, her leadership in Annual Giving Engagement has led to an impressive increase in participation rates, significant improvements in donor retention, and a robust engagement strategy that has garnered positive feedback from the college community. Her focus on innovation and best practices in fundraising helped position Trinity College as a leader in alumni engagement initiatives.
At The Ethel Walker School, Katie's tenure was marked by transformative changes in the parent giving program. Her strategic framework, which included enhanced communication strategies, tailored engagement opportunities, and recognition programs for donors, has set a new standard for parent engagement and giving. This initiative fostered a culture of philanthropy that encouraged sustained giving and deeper involvement from parents, significantly boosting overall fundraising outcomes.
Through her remarkable commitment to relationship-building and strategic planning, Katie E. Kelly has established herself as a prominent figure in the world of advancement. As she continues her journey, her passion for education and her dedication to fostering connections within the community will undoubtedly lead to further success and meaningful contributions to the institutions she serves.