Bob Kelly brings more than two decades of nonprofit experience in the philanthropic world to his new role
San Diego, Calif. – Sept. 15, 2014 – National University, California’s second-largest private, nonprofit university, announces the appointment of longtime philanthropic organization leader Bob Kelly as Executive-in-Residence with the Sanford Institute of Philanthropy, part of the Sanford Education Center. Mr. Kelly, who served for 20 years as President of The San Diego Foundation, will contribute to the development and implementation of the Institute’s planned offerings in seminars, certificates and master’s degree programs.
The Sanford Institute of Philanthropy trains existing and future nonprofit leaders in best practice fundraising techniques, relationship-building skills and leadership development. The Institute’s unique approach to philanthropy applies proven business principles to cause organizations, aiming to maximize the positive impacts of nonprofit organizations in the communities they serve. It is led by Director Dan McGinley, a former 3M sales executive with experience in developing training for corporations and nonprofits.
In his role with the Institute, Mr. Kelly will help develop partnerships with cause leadership organizations, including developing a community advisory group, and provide Institute leadership with strategic insight. Mr. Kelly also will serve as a subject matter expert, teaching selected coursework, and engaging in the planning of seminars.
“We are excited to have Bob Kelly join us as an Executive-in-Residence at the Sanford Institute of Philanthropy. His extensive knowledge and relationships with the nonprofit sector will deeply enhance the educational experience for our students,” said National University President Michael R. Cunningham. “His proven results as a leader in the nonprofit sector, and his unwavering commitment to the public good, are qualities that reflect the Institute’s own values and dedication to making a positive impact in our communities and the world at large.”
Bob Kelly served as President and CEO of The San Diego Foundation, which provides leadership for effective philanthropy, for two decades. In that capacity, he oversaw all activities, programs and asset management during a time of significant growth and achievements that have benefitted the entire San Diego region. Prior to joining The San Diego Foundation, Mr. Kelly served as the Executive Director of the American Cancer Society in San Diego and Vice President of Southern California. His community service activities include time spent as a board member of the San Diego Symphony Foundation, the San Diego Regional Disaster Fund, Hubbs-Seaworld Research Institute, the San Diego Real Estate Foundation, The Children’s Initiative, League of California Community Foundations, President of the Borrego Community Health Society, President of the UCSD alumni association and Chair of the Sharp HealthCare Board of Directors.
“I’m looking forward to this new opportunity to support the development of a new generation of leaders and emerging executives through the work that is being done at the Sanford Institute of Philanthropy,” said Mr. Kelly. “This is an exciting initiative that presents a unique emphasis on fundraising skills and other business principles as they apply to cause organizations, and I am pleased to have this chance to contribute to the successes of these programs through my affiliation with National University’s Sanford Education Center.”
The Sanford Education Center’s mission is to create A Better Tomorrow through the national expansion of innovative programs that support the development of nonprofit leaders, teachers and others dedicated to the public good. The Center, established at National University in La Jolla, Calif., includes the Sanford Institute of Philanthropy and the Sanford Education Programs. The Center is dedicated to increasing access to its programs through collaborations with individuals and institutions around the country. For updates on the Center, and more information about National University, visit https://www.sanfordinstituteofphilanthropy.org/
About National University
Founded in 1971, National University is the second-largest private, nonprofit institution of higher education in California. With 30,000 students and more than 230,000 alumni, National University is the flagship institution of the National University System. National University is dedicated to making lifelong learning opportunities accessible, challenging, and relevant to a diverse population of students. Five schools and one college – the College of Letters and Sciences; the School of Business and Management; the School of Education; the School of Engineering and Computing; the School of Health and Human Services; and the School of Professional Studies – offer more than 100 graduate and undergraduate degrees and 23 teacher credentials. Programs are offered at locations throughout California and across the nation, and are also available online. National University is headquartered in La Jolla, California
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