HERstory Soror Spotlight

Tell us a bit about your background. Where did you grow up?

I grew up in Fort Wayne, Indiana

What were some early influences that shaped who you are today?

I was raised by strong women who lived out what it meant to help others every single day. That gave me a blueprint for the kind of person I wanted to be. Service was never just talked about in my family; it was shown in real ways, big and small. I grew up believing that love is not just something you say, it is something you show. For me, that has always meant showing up for people and doing what I can to make someone else’s life a little better.

What inspired you to pursue your current career or passion?  Was there a defining moment or person who influenced your path?

What inspired me to pursue my passion with The Exchange was seeing the need for young professionals to have a space to belong, grow, and lead. I know what it feels like to want community and guidance while also wanting to make a real difference in the city you live in. A defining moment for me was experiencing the impact of The Exchange firsthand through the mentorship, the friendships, and the opportunity to lead. That showed me the power of creating spaces where people can find their voice and reminded me why I am committed to building environments where young professionals can thrive and leave their own mark on the community.

Can you share a proud moment or achievement in your journey so far? What made it meaningful to you?

One of my proudest moments was during the 2025 National Urban League Conference when our chapter was recognized as Chapter of the Year. It was meaningful to me because it was not just about the award; it was about seeing my Executive Leadership Team celebrated for the hard work and intentionality they poured into the previous year. What made me even more proud was knowing that our chapter members were always at the center of that work. Every program, every event, and every initiative was created with them in mind, and this recognition validated that their efforts truly made an impact.

What challenges have you faced, and how did you overcome them? Any lessons learned that you’d like to share?

One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced has been learning how to navigate tough seasons while still showing up for others. There were times when I questioned my path or felt setbacks, but leaning on my faith and support system reminded me that timing is not the same as purpose. I also had to learn that difficult seasons are not forever; they are temporary and often shape you for what comes next. That perspective has taught me resilience, patience, and the importance of giving myself grace while continuing to move forward.

Who are the women who inspire you and why? 

I am inspired first by my mother, sister, and grandmother, whose grace, strength, and love for others have been the foundation of who I am. Beyond my family, I am grateful for the local mentors who continue to shape me each day. These are women who check in, challenge me, and remind me to stay grounded while reaching higher. Alongside them, my sorors who serve our communities, public figures who embody the brilliance and resilience of Black women, and elected officials and activists who keep fighting for our people despite countless barriers all inspire me in different ways.

I carry pieces of inspiration from each of these women, and I love that about my journey. Their examples guide how I show up as a leader, with grace, service, and a commitment to lifting others as I climb.

What advice would you give to your younger self—or to young women starting out today?

The advice I would give my younger self, and to young women today, is to trust your journey and your voice. Do not compare yourself to others because your timing is your own. Surround yourself with people who see your potential, and remember to give yourself grace. Tough seasons will come, but they do not last forever, and you deserve peace, joy, and rest along the way.

How do you define leadership, and what does it look like in your life?

I define leadership as listening, serving, and creating space for others to grow. For me, it is not about titles but about impact and how you leave people and places better than you found them. Leadership, at its core, is about planting seeds for trees you may never sit under.

What’s next for you?  Any upcoming projects, goals, or dreams you’re excited about?

What’s next for me is finishing my term as President of The Exchange, which ends in 2026, and making sure our young professionals feel the lasting impact of the work we have done together. At the same time, I am excited about what comes after, continuing to deepen my service to the community, exploring new ways to shape policy and opportunity, and creating spaces where the next generation of leaders can thrive. My goal is to carry forward the lessons I have learned in this role and use them as a foundation for even greater impact in the years ahead.

How do you stay motivated and take care of yourself? Any routines, habits, or practices that help you stay grounded?

I stay motivated by keeping my “why” at the center and surrounding myself with prayer, quiet time, and support from my family and close friends. One practice I value most is treating Sunday as a true day of rest, stepping away from work to recharge in whatever way I need. That rhythm reminds me I cannot pour from an empty cup and helps me stay replenished for all that I am called to do.

What does “HerStory” mean to you? Why is it important to share women’s stories?

To me, “HerStory” means honoring the voices, experiences, and impact of women whose contributions might otherwise go unseen or unheard. It is about recognizing that our journeys are powerful and worthy of being shared, not just for ourselves but for those who come after us. Sharing women’s stories is important because they provide perspective, encouragement, and proof of what is possible. When women see themselves reflected in the stories of others, it gives them permission to dream bigger and reminds them that they are not alone in their path.

To follow Kelly's journey, you can find her on LinkedIN.