Life University is turning to an experienced leader in chiropractic education to guide the Marietta institution through its next chapter.
The university has appointed Dr. Brian Kelly as its new president, bringing more than three decades of experience in chiropractic education, higher education leadership and clinical practice to the role. Kelly will assume the presidency in November as the university works to strengthen its finances, academic programs and enrollment while positioning itself for long-term growth.
Kelly was selected after an executive search conducted in partnership with CarterBaldwin, an executive search firm. He previously led two chiropractic colleges through periods of significant growth and development.
“Dr. Kelly has a remarkable track record of stepping into institutions at pivotal moments and changing their trajectory,” said Dr. Sandra Elbaum, chairman of Life University’s Board of Trustees.
The search committee sought a president who could strengthen the university’s foundation, uphold its academic standards and position the institution for sustainable growth, Elbaum said.
“Brian brings the leadership experience, professional credibility and vision to help us do exactly that,” she said.
Kelly earned his chiropractic qualification in Australia and an MBA through the University of Waikato in New Zealand. He has also held professional leadership positions in the international chiropractic community.
More recently, Kelly worked in private practice in Auckland, New Zealand, focusing on elite athletes and concussion care through upper cervical chiropractic.
His appointment comes as higher education institutions navigate changes in enrollment, finances, technology and student expectations. At Life University, Kelly is expected to help advance institutional development, expand research, strengthen relationships with alumni and donors, and support opportunities for campus development.
The university is also working to strengthen its financial position and academic programs as it prepares for its next phase of leadership.
“Life University holds a unique responsibility in higher education,” Kelly said. “I believe deeply in what Life U can be, and I am excited to listen, learn and work alongside our students, faculty, staff, alumni and partners as we build its next chapter together.”
Kelly’s appointment follows a period of interim leadership involving Dr. Brian McAulay and Dr. Lee Skinkle. The university’s board thanked both for their work to strengthen the institution’s compliance position, stabilize its financial health and prepare it for new leadership.
Founded in 1974, Life University is located on a 110-acre campus in Marietta, northwest of Atlanta. The university serves more than 2,400 undergraduate, graduate and professional students representing all 50 states and more than 60 countries.
According to Niche, Life University ranks as the third most diverse college in the United States. Its academic offerings include its flagship Doctor of Chiropractic program and degrees across its College of Graduate and Undergraduate Studies.
As Kelly prepares to take the helm in November, the university will look to draw on his experience in institutional leadership as it pursues sustainable growth and works with its campus community to shape its future.
Life University is turning to an experienced leader in chiropractic education to guide the Marietta institution through its next chapter.
