Staff Highlight:

Q&A with Kelly Dunlap, Senior Program Manager

At Lake Institute on Faith & Giving, our work is shaped not only by research and resources, but by the dedicated people who bring that mission to life every day. In this Staff Highlight series, we’re introducing you to the individuals behind our programs, partnerships, and projects. Through a short Q&A, you’ll get a glimpse into their backgrounds, the passions that brought them to Lake Institute, and what excites them most about the future of faith and giving.

What inspired you to join Lake Institute?

I was drawn to the way that Lake Institute pulls together academic research, critical reflection tools, and dynamic partnerships to equip faithful people to do good in the world.

How would you describe your role in one sentence?

I manage some of our educational courses, add stories of Faithful Generosity to our website, and support projects such as LINES and research.

What do you think is Lake Institute’s greatest contribution to the field of faith and giving?

Sharing and translating research, and building bridges between congregations, the academy, and those doing creative work in between these spheres.

What emerging trends or topics are you most excited about within the field of faith and giving?

While not new, there is a renewed focus on the relationship between generosity and justice during times of great political change. Often, we put these into separate boxes, but there’s much to learn about how they overlap and impact the other.

What excites you the most about the future of Lake Institute?

There is a spirit of innovation and creativity among the team and I’m encouraged by how we are regularly evolving to meet the present need.

Share a fun fact about yourself!

I love rock climbing. I hope access to climbing continues to grow because it’s such a fun way to exercise, connect with others, and tap into our innate playfulness.