Jacqueline Keller
Jacqueline Keller is a seasoned marketing and communications leader with over a decade of experience in nonprofit and educational institutions. She specializes in brand strategy, digital communications, public relations, and content creation, with a strong background in information design and strategic storytelling. Her work is grounded in mission-driven communications that enhance institutional visibility, engagement, and community connection.
Currently serving as Director of Marketing & Communications at Avon Old Farms, she leads comprehensive, multi-channel communications strategies that support admissions, athletics, development, and academic programs. She oversees editorial direction for key institutional publications, manages digital platforms including website strategy and redesign initiatives, and directs cross-functional teams and external vendors. As part of the school’s strategic leadership team, she plays a key role in shaping institutional messaging and long-term communications planning.
Throughout her career, she has combined creative leadership with technical expertise to deliver high-impact campaigns and organizational storytelling. She holds a Master of Science in Information Design and Strategy from Northwestern University and a Bachelor’s degree in Communications and Public Relations from the University of Scranton. Recognized as one of Connecticut’s Top Women Leaders, she is also active in professional and community initiatives, including volunteer work in nonprofit advocacy and educational development projects.
• Certified Associate in Project Management
• Leadership Communication for Maximum Impact: Storytelling
• High Performance Collaboration: Leadership, Teamwork, and Negotiation
• Northwestern University – Master of Science (MS), Information Design and Strategy
• University of Scranton – Bachelor of Arts (BA), Communications, Public Relations
• Women We Admire – Top 50 Women Leaders of Connecticut (2026)
• Recognition for excellence in marketing, design, and institutional publications
• Contributor recognition for “Elevate: 16 Boarding Schools and the Practice of Holistic Education”
• Public Relations Society of America (PRSA)
• Women We Admire
• Centennial Steering Committee Member – Avon Old Farms
• Walk for Thought Planning Committee – Brain Injury Alliance of Connecticut
• Volunteer and fundraising involvement with the National Multiple Sclerosis Society
• Community-based communications and event support initiatives in nonprofit and educational sectors
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my passion for mission-driven work, consistent networking, and my willingness to put myself out there for new opportunities. Early in my career, I built a strong foundation in nonprofit communications, and over time I applied my skills in strategic storytelling and information design to larger institutional projects. I also credit my ability to stay aligned with my values and to continuously grow through collaboration and hands-on leadership experiences.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve received is to find work that aligns with your passions and values, because that makes the journey sustainable and meaningful. I was also encouraged early on to map career decisions intentionally across different sectors and environments, which helped me understand that I thrive in mission-driven, in-house communications roles where I can see the direct impact of my work.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would advise young women to be bold about their passions and to actively build relationships and networks, because opportunities often come through connections. It’s important to choose work that feels meaningful rather than focusing only on prestige or financial gain. Staying grounded in what truly brings fulfillment will help create a more sustainable and rewarding career path in the long term.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest opportunities in my field is transforming digital communications—especially websites and content platforms—into strategic tools that support decision-making and engagement. At the same time, a challenge in nonprofit and educational communications is managing limited resources while still maintaining high-impact storytelling and adapting to evolving digital expectations across audiences.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The most important values to me are passion, authenticity, and purpose-driven work. I value staying connected to meaningful work that supports communities and educational missions. I also prioritize collaboration, mentorship, and maintaining balance so that my professional life remains aligned with my personal fulfillment and core beliefs.