The ҹɫÊÓƵ has named Melissa Kelley director of development for the College of Agriculture, Biotechnology & Natural Resources. She will lead philanthropic efforts supporting student success, research and community engagement programs across Nevada.
Kelley brings more than 16 years of experience in fundraising and donor relations, with a background spanning community-focused organizations, including the California Dental Association Foundation, Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services, the ALS Association and Special Olympics Northern California. Over her career, she has worked with individual donors, corporate partners and foundations, contributing to campaigns that have raised tens of millions of dollars.
In her new role, Kelley will partner with College leadership, alumni, donors and industry groups to expand support for scholarships, academic programs, research and outreach across the College’s departments and its , and units. She is particularly interested in advancing the College’s rich biotechnology, agriculture and outreach initiatives to strengthen Nevada’s food security, and in supporting the College’s broader impacts across disciplines.
“I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the continued success of the College,” Kelley said. “What excites me most is the tangible impact it has across the state, from educating students and advancing research to strengthening communities through Extension and programs such as 4-H. Philanthropy plays a critical role in making that work possible.”
Kelley’s path into development began at the California Dental Association. Starting as a foundation assistant, she managed donor records and communications before advancing to oversee the foundation’s Friends of the Foundation donor program, an experience that sparked her passion for philanthropy.
“I quickly fell in love with the profession,” she said. “I care deeply about building relationships and helping donors align what matters to them with work that creates real, lasting impact.”
Her role will focus on connecting donor interests with the College’s land‑grant mission of supporting research, education and Extension efforts that strengthen communities, support agriculture and improve quality of life statewide.
“Melissa brings a strong track record of building relationships and aligning donor interests with mission-driven work,” said William Payne, dean of the college. “Her leadership will help us expand support for the programs, people and research that serve Nevada and beyond.”
Kelley earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Maryland Global Campus and holds the Certified Fund Raising Executive designation.
