Long-standing staff member and beloved employee Kelly Quin passed away Nov. 30. She worked at Rice University for more than 30 years, most recently serving as assistant vice president for campaign and constituent strategy.
She is remembered for her dedicated service in the development and alumni relations office, where she led with a strategic, analytical approach to her work. Coupled with her love for mentoring and helping others grow, she was quickly recognized as a rising star among the staff.
“I have had the pleasure of working with Kelly on many campus events over the years, and I was always impressed with her positive demeanor and her practical and methodical approach to getting things done,” said Hannes Hofer, facilities project manager.
Quin was cherished not only by her co-workers but also by the Rice Board of Trustees, which honored Quin for her donor engagement efforts. Chief among her involvement, Quin was central to planning and executing three of Rice’s fundraising campaigns, each of which helped transform the university. She was also instrumental in planning many of the university’s hallmark events, including commencement, Alumni Weekend and the Moody X-Fest.
Hollie Evans, campus events manager, also shared her memories of Quin’s trademark attention to detail and unflappable work ethic.
“Kelly always had a calming presence when it came to handling the planning and executing of events,” Evans said, referencing the personalized touch Quin would undertake to make each event special.
“She was a tremendous leader, but she was also not afraid to sit on the floor and unbox inauguration coins to help us get it done on time,” Evans said of Quin’s dedication to the annual commencement tradition involving the tokens.
Quin’s connections with the university ran deep. A proud Rice parent, she cared deeply for the Owl community, and the many relationships she forged across the university are a testament to her character and friendly spirit.
“She was one of the most thoughtful people I know. She’s a true steward of Rice’s excellence, and there is literally no corner of this university that she had not touched,” said Stephen Bayer, vice president for development and alumni relations. “Kelly’s creative talents and passion have left an indelible mark on all who knew her, and she will be deeply missed.”
Among other family members, Quin is survived by her husband David and daughter Emily.