Kelly Mehrtens

Kelly Mehrtens has spent more than 30 years working in sports, from college athletics to the NFL, with a career centered on people, opportunity, and what sports can make possible beyond the game.

Today, she is the Founder and President of SMART Sports, a Chicago-based nonprofit that connects young people to academics, leadership, financial education, mentorship, and career opportunities through sports.

Before launching SMART Sports, Kelly served as Executive Director of The Trust, powered by the NFL Players Association, supporting former NFL players as they transitioned from the game. She also held senior leadership roles in college athletics, including Deputy Athletic Director and Chief Operating Officer at the University of Maryland, with experience across the Big Ten, Big 12, and ACC.

Kelly was an All-American student-athlete at the University of Alabama, has served on the USA Football Board of Directors, and currently serves on the Advisory Board of Pro Athlete Community.

Kelly sees tremendous value in the continued growth of girls and women in sports and what they bring to the game. Having spent much of her life in sports, she has seen firsthand how it can open doors, build relationships, and create opportunities that extend far beyond the field of play for all.