Kelly Hurst

Kelly Hurst is a clinical educator and the Equity and Inclusion Strategist for Southern Illinois University’s School of Medicine. There she acts as an education liaison for the Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion as well as a developer of curricular experiences for medical students, resident physicians, and attending physicians around anti-racism and anti-racism strategies.

Previously, she’s been an educator in K12 schools as well as a school administrator which is the knowledge she brings with her to the Department of Medical Humanities. Her most recent work has been with Crossroads Antiracism Organizing & Training where she continues to be a facilitator and organizer for digital workshops. In Springfield, Kelly is also a program coordinator for the Springfield Coalition on Dismantling Racism, a group who first introduced her to the antiracism movement.

Kelly founded an advocacy organization called Being Black at School, a national nonprofit dedicated to moving equity conversations into action, making schools a safer place for Black students. Her understanding of antiracism is informed by theoretical frameworks introduced to her by Crossroads leadership.

In her educational career Kelly spent 23 years in the following roles: classroom teacher, professional development coordinator, literacy coach, guidance dean, and assistant principal. It is with all those lenses that she brings her expertise to the School of Medicine. A proud south side Chicago native, she has lived in Springfield for 27 years and resides there with her spouse. They have six adult children and enjoy five grandchildren.