Caryn Kelly

Caryn Kelly has a background in conflict-resolution and peace-building in divided societies, including time spent in Northern Ireland, Mexico, and on the US/Mexico border. Curious to learn more about other cultures, Caryn volunteered with an ESL program for immigrants and refugees in Minneapolis and pursued a career in teaching English. For over 15 years, Caryn has taught and trained volunteers and advised diverse adult learners on their educational and career training opportunities. Carynhas worked on LSI’s Community-based English program, EMBARC’s Refugee RISE AmeriCorps, and most recently, the Iowa International Center’s Welcome English AmeriCorps program. Caryn and Lilian Okech (also an Open Book) met as fellow business owners in 2017 and have recently formed Hope to Shine, a new non-profit focused on developing the potential of immigrant and refugee women as leaders in their homes, workplaces, and community.