Staff Story: Kelly Adams
Kelly Adams has devoted over 18 years to Ben Lippen School, a journey that began when her daughter enrolled in Pre-K4 in 1996. Now the Director of Upper School Admissions, Kelly has witnessed the transformative power of faith, service, and community at Ben Lippen—both in her own life and in the lives of countless students and families.
A Special Calling
Kelly recognizes that her role in admissions is not just about enrolling students, but about sharing the opportunities that Ben Lippen offers. “I love sharing Ben Lippen with families in all seasons of life,” she says. “When families come on campus, they often don’t know why they’re here, but after walking the halls, meeting teachers, and speaking with students, they leave with a sense of ‘I want what they have for my children.’ It’s such a privilege to be part of that.”
Kelly has the privilege of guiding families through the admissions process, meeting with up to four families a day, each with their own story. “Every family has a story, every child has a story,” Kelly reflects. “If I can help a family see the hope and potential in being part of the Ben Lippen community, then I know I’m right where God wants me.”
A Unique Community
Kelly believes that the unique ethos of Ben Lippen stems from the unwavering commitment of its faculty, administrators, coaches, and teachers. “Ben Lippen is different because of the people,” she affirms. “The faculty and coaches pour into the students every day, praying over them, loving them, and guiding them to become who God created them to be. When I share that with families, I can’t help but get emotional because I know firsthand the impact it has had on my own children.”
Kelly’s connection to Ben Lippen runs deep, having been a parent here long before becoming a staff member. After spending a few years away from the school, Kelly and her family felt God calling them back to Ben Lippen. “We stepped out in faith, trusting that Jesus would show us a way,” she shares. With the support of family and financial aid, her children were able to return, and it wasn’t long before Kelly found herself applying for an admissions role.
For Kelly, the bonds formed here are lasting. Her son, Will, who graduated from Ben Lippen, still keeps close relationships with his classmates, many of whom he’s known since middle school.
A Worthy Work
Kelly cherishes her time working alongside students, watching them grow as they serve others. “Getting to know these kids is incredible,” she says. “They go on mission trips to serve communities in need, building homes for families in another country, sharing the gospel, and showing the love of Christ in tangible ways.”
For Kelly, these experiences underscore the importance of both serving others and cultivating a deep, personal relationship with Jesus. One particular moment stands out to Kelly: a few students, after returning from their service trip, continued to give. “They humbly raised their own spending money to help the family they built a home for,” she recalls. “It’s incredible to watch them make a lasting impact, not just in their actions, but in their hearts.”
For Kelly, the most important thing is that students leave Ben Lippen knowing Jesus in a more personal and intimate way than when they arrived. “We live in a fallen world, but being used by Jesus as a light in the lives of these students is the most important job we have.”
As Kelly continues her work, she remains grateful for the opportunity to be part of a community that values prayer, service, and the transformation that comes from walking with Christ. “I give God all the praise and glory for each day I have here,” she says. “It’s been the best thing for our family, and it’s a blessing to see the same transformation happening in the lives of students and families every day.”