Kelly Blackburn ’82: Leveling the Playing Fields for Worcester Academy Student-Athletes

Kelly Blackburn ’82 knows the value of the Worcester Academy experience, which is why she has established a bequest to support future WA student-athletes.

With her father Tom Blackburn serving as longtime athletic director and basketball coach, it was a given that Kelly would attend WA. She is now focused on helping others take advantage of such an opportunity.

“One of the things I gained from WA is a sense of belonging. The Hilltop remains a part of my family’s life. While reflecting on my time at the Academy, I realized its profound impact on my journey. I began to think about ways to acknowledge that and the many people who helped me during my time there,” she says.

Kelly hopes her bequest will help “level the playing field” for future students, providing the same opportunities she had to “grow, lead, and make a difference in the world.”

“My classmates and I know we benefited from the generosity of the alumni who came before us,” she says. “I want to do my part to support future generations.”

Since graduating, Kelly has had a successful career in clinical research while remaining deeply active in giving back to her community, which includes supporting the Academy in a myriad of ways—contributing to the Annual Fund, serving on the Board of Trustees, acting as a guest speaker in science classes and clubs, and most recently cheering for her nephew Jake during the annual Thomas Blackburn Invitational Basketball Tournament!

Kelly urges her fellow alumni to join her in making WA part of their legacy plans. “It makes sense to take this easy step,” she urges. “Think about the people and places that got you where you are today. You can honor your past while making an impact on someone else’s future. In other words, you can continue to Achieve the Honorable and help others do the same.”