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Kelly is a member of the Community Impact Team and manages the scholarship program as CFMT’s Scholarships Senior Manager. The Shelbyville Tennessee native received her Bachelor’s degree in Education and her Master’s degree in Public Administration from the University of Memphis, GO TIGERS!
For ten years, Kelly has navigated the world of college admissions from both sides of the desk. Beginning her journey at the University of Memphis and later at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, she guided countless students and families through the complex admissions process with her expertise culminating in her most recent role as a College Counselor at LEAD Academy in Nashville, TN. A desire to see students reap the same rewards she has from her scholarship and college education is what motivates Kelly everyday.
“As a child of two public school educators, receiving a scholarship for college was more than just having financial aid,” says Kelly. “It was a recognition of all the hard work my parents and I put towards building a future. Receiving a scholarship was an acknowledgment that my future was worthy of being invested in and that my potential was seen. This personal experience with scholarships drives the work I do everyday because I know a scholarship is so much more than a financial award. Our generous donors trust us with not only relieving the financial burden of college for students across Middle Tennessee but creating community where our recipients can thrive.”
Kelly’s deep passion for higher education and financial aid shines through in her dedicated volunteer efforts. Kelly currently holds membership in both NACAC (National Association of College Admission Counseling) and SACAC (Southern Association of College Admission Counseling). For eight years, Kelly held the role of College Fair Chair for Nashville, where she orchestrated the annual event catering to Middle Tennessee students. Her SACAC leadership included board service where she served as the TN Government Relations Co-Chair and contributed to the Strategic Planning Committee. She was also recognized as the SACAC’s 2025 winner of the Garrett Klein Award for Mid-Career Level Service through a nomination process from SACAC members.
As a member of the National Scholarship Providers Association, Kelly’s involvement extends beyond regional borders. Locally, she plays a vital role in the Nashville Scholars Initiative Advisory Board and serves as a mentor for TN Achieves and Equal Chance for Education. She was a member of the Leadership Public Education 2025 cohort and was recognized as a finalist in the Education Category for the 2026 Nashville Emerging Leaders Awards sponsored by the Nashville Chamber of Commerce. Additionally, Kelly coordinates the monthly Nashville High School Counselor meetings hosted at CFMT, further solidifying her dedication to educational advocacy and community support.
Outside of the office, Kelly loves to spend time with her family at Memphis Tiger sporting events and traveling with her friends. Most weekends she enjoys exploring local parks with her dog, Dorsey.
