Kelly co-founded Sentience Institute and served as the organization’s executive director for its first three years. She grew the organization’s financial support quickly, presented at numerous conferences, developed and managed the website, hired and managed staff with co-founder Jacy, edited staff’s research and outreach, and conducted research herself. Kelly previously served as Director of Communications at Sentience Politics, co-organized a grassroots animal advocacy organization, and worked as a front-end engineer. Kelly has participated in many animal rescues and has volunteered her graphic design skills to several animal advocacy organizations. She is also guardian to two rescued hens.