The University of Redlands welcomes nationally recognized professional Kelly Dries as executive director of the institution’s Office of Career and Professional Development. After conducting a nationwide search, Dries was tapped for the newly created position and will begin in late August 2018. 

“Kelly was the unanimous choice of our selection committee to lead the University in its ongoing efforts to build strong networks and partners among other departments, including academic affairs, student affairs, and alumni relations,” said U of R Provost, Kathy Ogren. “Kelly’s credentials speak loudly to her ability to motivate and collaborate, which will be key as she leads the University in this new capacity.”

Dries comes to Redlands from the University of Utah, where she served as associate director for counseling services and operations in the Career and Professional Development Center. She is a Gallup-certified strengths coach who is active in her professional community. Dries serves on several boards, most notably the regional board for the Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education, the editorial board for the Association’s Journal for Women in Student Affairs and the board of the Mountain Pacific Association of Colleges & Employers (MPACE). She recently received a Rising Star Award from MPACE and the Vice President for Student Affairs Award for Service Excellence from the University of Utah.

“The University of Redlands offers exceptional opportunities to students while they are working toward their degree, including guidance and support in career services and professional development,” Dries said. “I look forward to working with the extraordinary team to help all students at U of R successfully reach their goals.” 

Dries holds a B.S. in secondary education and B.A. in English from East Stroudsburg University. She also holds an M.A. in professional studies and student affairs, from Towson University, and will complete a Ph.D. in educational leadership and policy from the University of Utah this fall.