Kelli J. Holmes Named Associate VP for Philanthropy

01/12/2024

by Buffy Lockette

Kelli J. Holmes has joined Jacksonville State University's staff as associate vice president for philanthropy. The JSU alumna returns to campus from the University of Montevallo, where she served as executive director of advancement and adjunct professor of marketing in the Michael E. Stephens College of Business.   

“Kelli has a genuine passion for philanthropy and a proven track record of fundraising success as well as developing and implementing successful fundraising strategies,” said Dr. Alan Medders, vice president for philanthropy. “We are excited to have her on board and returning to her alma mater and believe her experience in stewarding donor relationships, leading cross-functional teams and campaign execution will be a major asset as we work to increase the level of philanthropy at Jax State.”  

Native to Pelham, Ala., Holmes earned a BA in communication from Jax State in 2000. She began her career in public relations as an account supervisor at O2ideas. After seven years with the Birmingham-based agency, she joined Easter Seals of Birmingham to serve as director of development and marketing. Using her talent for relationship building, she served as director of employer outreach at the University of Alabama at Birmingham before joining the University of Montevallo in 2015. 

Holmes’ many accomplishments at Montevallo included acquiring the university’s largest cash gift, $1 million, and second and third largest planned gifts, totaling $3.5 million. She also led a $32 million capital campaign for the university and served as a co-writer of a groundbreaking seven-year, $25 million Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP) grant.  

In her new role at JSU, Holmes oversees the university’s fundraising, alumni relations and communications efforts, working collaboratively with all university colleges and departments to provide strategic direction and support in addressing fundraising and communication initiatives that meet their individual needs. 

“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,” stated Holmes. “My past 23 years of experiences have uniquely prepared me for this position, and I am honored to contribute to the growth and success of the institution that has always held a special place in my heart."  

In addition to her bachelor’s degree from JSU, she has earned an MBA from the University of Montevallo and a certificate in nonprofit management from UAB.

Passionate about giving back to the community, Holmes is board chair for the City of Helena Economic Development and Industrial Board. She also serves in several leadership positions with organizations that support 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.  

Holmes currently resides in Helena with her husband, Daniel, and their two children.