Jacksonville, AL – Kelli J. Holmes has recently joined the staff of Jacksonville State University as the Associate Vice President for Philanthropy. A proud alumna of JSU, she returns to her alma mater from the University of Montevallo, where she held the position of executive director of advancement and adjunct professor of marketing in the Michael E. Stephens College of Business.
Dr. Alan Medders, Vice President for Philanthropy, expressed enthusiasm about Holmes’ arrival, noting her genuine passion for philanthropy and her track record of fundraising success. He highlighted her experience in developing and implementing effective fundraising strategies. Medders believes that her skills in stewarding donor relationships, leading cross-functional teams, and executing campaigns will greatly contribute to increasing philanthropy at Jax State.
Originally from Pelham, Alabama, Holmes earned her BA in communication from Jax State in 2000. Her career began in public relations at O2ideas, where she worked for seven years before joining Easter Seals of Birmingham as the director of development and marketing. After serving as the director of employer outreach at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, she joined the University of Montevallo in 2015.
Holmes’ achievements at Montevallo included securing the university’s largest cash gift of $1 million, along with the second and third largest planned gifts totaling $3.5 million. She also led a $32 million capital campaign and co-wrote a seven-year, $25 million Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP) grant.
In her new role at JSU, Holmes oversees fundraising, alumni relations, and communications efforts. She collaborates with all university colleges and departments, providing strategic direction and support for fundraising and communication initiatives tailored to their individual needs.
Expressing her excitement about returning to her alma mater, Holmes stated, “I’m thrilled to be returning to my alma mater as associate vice president for philanthropy, a role that allows me to give back to the institution that shaped my journey.” She emphasized that her past 23 years of experiences uniquely prepared her for this position, and she is honored to contribute to the growth and success of the institution close to her heart.
Apart from her bachelor’s degree from JSU, Holmes holds an MBA from the University of Montevallo and a certificate in nonprofit management from UAB. Committed to giving back to the community, she serves as the board chair for the City of Helena Economic Development and Industrial Board. Additionally, she holds leadership positions in organizations supporting affordable mental health options and children-focused missions, such as combating human trafficking and improving the quality of life for children in low socioeconomic areas.
