Pi Beta Phi - University of Mississippi

University of Mississippi PAGE 3 Chapter President Shayla Hanson '22 Vice President Operations Sophie Kahle '23 Vice President Community Relations Kalyn Barr '23 Vice President Recruitment Jordan Machols '23 Vice President Risk Management Emily Engle '23 Vice President Member Experience Brianna Szewczyk '23 Vice President Finance/Housing Ashley Lane '23 E X E C U T I V E C O U N C I L F or Kelly Day Kenney '93, the journey from a Pi Beta Phi undergraduate to a dedicated professional and mentor has been one of service and growth. Originally from out of state, she found Mississippi Beta to be a welcoming place to land. "Joining Pi Phi gave me the best friends and a home away from home," she recalled. The friendships she formed in the chapter have lasted well beyond college, creating a lifelong network of support. Kelly took on leadership roles within the chapter, serving as a censor and chairing several interest groups. She particularly appreciated Mississippi Beta's diversity. "I loved that the members came from all over the U.S. Now, no matter where I am traveling, there is a Mississippi Beta nearby to connect with." Her time with Pi Beta Phi instilled values of structure, academic excellence and leadership that continue to guide her today. Kelly earned a bachelor's degree in biology with a minor in English before attending the University of Tennessee's medical campus in Memphis to study occupational therapy. Inspired by her older sister, an orthopedic (OT) surgeon, Kelly initially considered a similar path. After shadowing her sister at a clinic, however, she was drawn to rehabilitation rather than surgery. Her first job after OT school took her to Charity Hospital in New Orleans, where she worked in trauma, orthopedics and neurosurgery. After her husband graduated from Louisiana State University's dental school, they moved to Tupelo, Mississippi, in 2001, where Kelly adapted her career to new challenges. "I shifted to outpatient hand therapy, covered a school system in Alabama and designed custom seating systems for medically complex patients," she explained. Her passion for helping others led her to a new calling— working with college students facing learning challenges. Kelly's journey into academic coaching began when her own children were in school. She noticed more parents seeking help for students struggling with ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, anxiety and other challenges. "More students on college campuses have ADHD, fall on the high end of the autistic spectrum, or battle anxiety, depression and other challenges that impact their ability to perform to their fullest potential," she shared. Kelly provides executive functioning and academic coaching, helping students with time management, goal setting and accessing campus resources. She ensures each student has a weekly game plan and follows up to keep them on track. One key message Kelly shares with students is the importance of seeking support. "One thing I always tell my clients is it's okay to ask for help—that's why schools have so many resources available. They are not alone," she emphasized. She also encourages a balanced lifestyle, integrating fun, fitness and wellness into a routine. "Once the client gets in a schedule, they sleep better, study more efficiently, experience less stress and see positive results in their grades." Kelly remains connected to Pi Beta Phi and gives back to the chapter whenever possible. "Chapter life gave me structure when I was young and away from home for the first time. My sisters valued academics and provided opportunities to learn leadership and service," she said. Whether speaking at chapter meetings or assisting in alumni functions, her dedication to Pi Beta Phi remains strong. Kelly splits her time between Tupelo and Oxford, keeping up with her children's active lives. Her daughter is graduating from Ole Miss and heading to graduate school in Florida, while her son is heavily involved in high school activities. In their free time, the family enjoys skiing, snowboarding, scuba diving and cheering on Ole Miss sports teams. If you'd like to hear more about Kelly's work or just reconnect, you can reach her at kdkutot@aol.com. Kelly Day Kenney '93 Shares How She Gives Back Empowering the Next Generation Kelly with her son and husband.

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