CarterBaldwin Executive Search, together with Life University, announces the appointment of Dr. Brian D. Kelly as the school’s next President. Dr. Kelly will assume the role in November.
Kelly is an internationally respected chiropractic educator, practitioner, executive leader, and speaker whose career spans more than three decades of service to the profession. As President-elect, he brings a distinct combination of clinical experience, academic leadership, and organizational expertise, united by a commitment to advancing chiropractic education, strengthening institutions and inspiring future generations of healthcare leaders. Kelly joins Life University from Auckland, New Zealand, where he practiced chiropractic medicine, caring for a diverse patient population that included elite athletes and individuals experiencing concussion and brain injury.
Kelly is one of the few individuals to have served as president of chiropractic colleges in two countries. From 2011 to 2016, he served as President and Chief Executive Officer of Life Chiropractic College West in California and served as President of the New Zealand College of Chiropractic from 2003 to 2011. During his tenure, he guided both institutions through significant academic and organizational development and growth.
Beyond higher education, Kelly’s leadership roles have included service with the Association of Chiropractic Colleges, the International Chiropractors Association, the Council on Chiropractic Education–Australasia, and the Australian Spinal Research Foundation, where he served as President and Board Member.
His contributions have been recognized through numerous honors, including the New Zealand Order of Chiropractic, International Chiropractor of the Year, and Distinguished Fellow of the International Chiropractors Association.
Kelly earned his Bachelor of Applied Science (Chiropractic) from RMIT, formerly the Phillip Institute of Technology in Australia, and an MBA from the University of Waikato in New Zealand.
Click here For Life University’s complete announcement.
About Life University
Located in Marietta, GA, Life University unites purposeful learning with real-world experience in a community built on service, leadership and well-being. From undergraduate and graduate programs to their flagship Doctor of Chiropractic programs, students develop the skills and mindset to rise from within and create lasting impact. Life University is committed to a global vision and excellence in teaching, learning and research, providing an exceptional student experience leading to a life of Integrity and Lasting Purpose.
