Meet Kelly Pepper: The Arts and Education Advocate Who’s Making Waves

​Hey everyone! If you haven’t heard of Kelly Pepper yet, it’s time to get acquainted with this amazing woman who’s been shaking things up in the world of arts and education. From championing local cultural projects to leading major educational initiatives, Kelly’s journey is nothing short of inspiring.
A True Arts EnthusiastKelly’s love for the arts is pretty much woven into her career. She kicked things off as the Executive Director of the Center for the Arts in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. It was the perfect start for someone who’s been all about promoting and celebrating the arts.
Next up, she brought her flair for marketing and public relations to the New Orleans Opera. Imagine the magic of blending creative promotion with a passion for opera—that was Kelly’s gig! And if that wasn’t enough, she also made a huge impact as the Development Director for the Arts Council of Greater Baton Rouge, boosting support and visibility for local artists and arts programs.
Leading the Charge in EducationKelly didn’t stop at the arts. Her career in education has been equally impressive. She was the Development Director for the LSU College of Music and Dramatic Arts and Swine Palace, where she played a huge role in supporting the college’s mission and helping students shine.
Then, she took on the role of Executive Director of Institutional Advancement at SOWELA Technical Community College. Here, she focused on community engagement and development, proving that she’s as dedicated to supporting education as she is to promoting the arts.
Rocking the Nonprofit WorldKelly’s impact on the nonprofit sector is huge. As the President and CEO of the Louisiana Association of Nonprofit Organizations (LANO), she worked hard to strengthen nonprofits across Louisiana. She’s also been involved with the Louisiana Office of Cultural Development, where she focused on community and cultural development—talk about making a difference!
A Bit of Academic FlairAnd it doesn’t stop there. Kelly’s also dabbled in academia. She’s taught Advanced Development Strategies as an adjunct faculty member at Louisiana State University. Sharing her wealth of knowledge with future leaders? Definitely a highlight of her career.
A Personal Touch in Her Artistic SpaceOne of the most personal aspects of Kelly’s life is her connection to art and space. Her painting—a beautiful, intricate work—offers a glimpse into her soul. It’s more than just a piece of art; it’s a reflection of her life and experiences. From family photos to the cozy ritual of fixing her coffee each morning in a special spot, her artwork captures the essence of her daily life. This personal space is where she starts her day and finds inspiration, making the painting not just a decoration but a deeply personal symbol of her life and passions.
Community Spirit and Personal TouchA Baton Rouge native and University of Tennessee grad, Kelly’s roots run deep. She’s a proud member of Alpha Delta Pi Sorority and has been active with organizations like Actors Equity Association and SWLA Public Relations Professionals. Her community spirit and dedication shine through in everything she does.
Currently Making an Impact at LSUARight now, Kelly is the President of the LSUA Foundation. Her work here continues her legacy of leadership and support for education. Whether she’s steering initiatives or rallying support, Kelly’s commitment to LSUA and its mission is clear.
In short, Kelly Pepper is a powerhouse in the worlds of arts and education. Her career is a fantastic mix of leadership, creativity, and dedication. Add in her deeply personal connection to art and daily rituals, and it’s clear that Kelly’s impact will be felt for years to come.