Kelly DeGraaf
Manager of Events
After receiving a degree in Organizational Communications from University of Portland, Kelly worked in marketing and large-scale event production, ultimately finding that mission-driven development work is her passion. For the last five years, she led business development and large fundraising events at Children’s Cancer Association in Portland, OR and sat on the board at Levé, an all female-led nonprofit leading the conversation in millennial philanthropy.
Kelly joined the 1871 team as the Manager of Events where she works to develop, plan, and execute over 1,000 events each year. Her work focuses on building relationships, creating meaningful event collaborations, and funding mission impact at 1871. Dedicated to producing innovative and exciting events for 1871 members, clients, and partners, Kelly is excited to be part of the team!
When she’s not advising on your event strategy, coordinating logistics, or probably plugging in your HDMI cord, Kelly is exploring the restaurant and art scene here in Chicago. As a newbie to the city, she’s excited to take her SUP out on Lake Michigan, check out neighborhood festivals, and go to her first Cubs game!
