Assistant Director, External Relations
Kelley (Catherine) Downey manages programs and activities that engage Duke alumni, parents, donors, and friends with Duke I&E. She supports the team by coordinating social and educational constituent programs, developing and managing volunteers, managing communications, and documenting constituent engagement. Kelley collaborates frequently with Duke Alumni Engagement and Development and with the advancement functions at Duke’s schools, units, and interdisciplinary areas.
Originally from upstate New York, Kelley earned her Bachelor of Science in Graphic Communications from Clemson University. She previously led a grassroots nonprofit, Musical Empowerment, which offers free music lessons to children through college student volunteers. As a Goodmon Fellow (Leadership Triangle ‘23), Kelley prioritizes compassion, integrity, and community-building.