Our Team

Kelly Surace serves as the Digital Marketing Coordinator at Pelican Institute, supporting the organization’s mission through strategic marketing, visual storytelling, and audience-centered content. With over 20 years of experience in graphic design and communications, she brings a clear, practical approach to helping ideas connect with people.

Born and raised in Baton Rouge, Kelly has a deep appreciation for Louisiana’s culture, arts, and sense of community. Her background includes political communications, nonprofit organizations, and publishing. She is especially skilled at translating complex topics into clear, approachable visuals and messaging. As both a designer and an artist, she focuses on clarity, accessibility, and storytelling that resonates beyond policy circles.

Outside of work, Kelly’s life centers around her daughter, family, creativity, and time spent gardening and sharing flowers with her community. She is proud to bring her local roots and creative perspective to Pelican Institute’s work across Louisiana.