Tonya Kelly

Tonya Kelly joins the Josef Korbel School of Global and Public Affairs as Executive Director of Development & Alumni Engagement, bringing nearly a decade of distinguished service to the University of Denver. Most recently serving as Senior Director of Development for DU's College of Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences, Tonya was a driving force on the team that raised nearly $87 million for CAHSS, a testament to her expertise in building meaningful philanthropic momentum and lasting donor relationships.

Her path to advancement fundraising is anything but conventional. Early career work in national security and human rights laid a powerful foundation for a life's work connecting communities with causes that matter. Rooted in the nonprofit sector, Tonya has partnered with organizations ranging from grassroots advocacy groups to international think tanks, helping generate meaningful impact across the globe. Along the way she has honed deep expertise in philanthropic strategy, gift planning, donor stewardship, comprehensive campaigns, and board governance.

Now at Korbel, a school whose mission of global affairs and public service aligns closely with her professional roots, Tonya brings both the strategic acumen and the personal passion to elevate the school's philanthropic presence and alumni community.

A proud DU alumna and lifelong learner, Tonya holds a B.A. in Anthropology and German from CAHSS and a Master's from DU's Sturm College of Law. Her academic pursuits extend beyond DU, with a Master's in Nonprofit Management from Regis University, graduate studies in Applied Intelligence from Mercyhurst University, and a paralegal certificate from the University of California, San Diego. She also holds the Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy® (CAP®) designation from The American College of Financial Services and a 21/64 Certified Advisor credential, both reflecting her specialized ability to engage multi-generational donors in values-driven giving conversations.