Phil Kelly, professor in curriculum, instruction and foundational studies is set to retire at the conclusion of this academic year after a 24- year career at Boise State. Kelly was chair of his department from 2005-2007 and 2014-2017, and has served as the university’s faculty ombudsman since 2013.
During his time in the College of Education, Kelly served on multiple committees, was involved in policy work for the state of Idaho, served as a trustee on the Boise School Board, was recognized as an outstanding faculty for the college (among several other awards), traveled to Uganda four times to do educational research and outreach, and even officiated a wedding for two former students. Kelly is also the coordinator for the Scott Willison memorial scholarship, in memory of his dear friend and former colleague.
Kelly, a Michigan native, received a bachelor’s in chemistry from Wayne State University in Detroit, a master’s in Social Foundations of Education from Eastern Michigan University, and a doctorate in Educational Policy from Michigan State University. Kelly was originally a chemist, but decided to go to night school to become a physics teacher, where he found his passion for education.
Kelly has been married to Jackie Kelly for 34 years and the couple have three daughters – Maureen, Mary and Sarah. In addition to his dedication to education research, teaching and service, Kelly is passionate about baseball, Star Trek and anything related to aliens – he has even visited Roswell, New Mexico like a true believer. His plans in retirement include continued service in the Boise community as a certified lay minister for the United Methodist Church to help in understaffed churches, and as a mediator for the Ada County courts.
The College of Education is hosting a retirement celebration Friday, April 29 from 2-3:30pm in the Imagination Lab on the 2nd floor of the Micron Business and Economics Building. The event is open to the public.