Samantha Kelley, international presenter, author, and founder of FIERCE Athlete Inc., will serve as the 2025 Commencement Speaker and receive an Honorary Doctorate of Applied Leadership during the Commencement Ceremonies on Saturday, May 3, 2025. The event will celebrate the academic achievements of more than 600 graduates and recognize outstanding contributions to leadership, faith, and service.
A nine-time state high school champion and former Division I soccer player at the University of Connecticut, Samantha Kelley has devoted her life to empowering female athletes through faith, truth, and authentic identity. As the Founder and President of FIERCE Athlete Inc., Kelley has built a national platform dedicated to mentoring young women in sport to embrace their dignity and compete with purpose.
Born and raised in Conshohocken, Pennsylvania, Kelley was a standout athlete across soccer, ice hockey, and track. Her time as a Division I athlete marked a turning point in her faith journey, sparking a passion to support others navigating the demands of high-level athletics. She spent five years working with FOCUS and Varsity Catholic, ministering to student-athletes across the country before launching FIERCE in 2017.
Since its founding, FIERCE has become a trusted voice in the athletic community—offering mentorship, training, and spiritual formation for women at every level of competition. Kelley's work is rooted in the belief that female athletes can thrive both on and off the field without compromising their identity or values.
Kelley holds a Master’s degree in Catholic Psychology from Divine Mercy University and a Catholic Innovators Certificate from the University of Notre Dame. She has extensively studied Theology of the Body and holds certifications in Strength & Conditioning and Encounter Ministries, uniquely equipping her to integrate physical, mental, and spiritual wellness into her mission. In addition to leading FIERCE, she remains active in competitive sports including rowing, triathlons, and pickleball.
Kelley’s influence continues to grow through speaking engagements, national media appearances, and her own platform, The FIERCE Podcast, where she explores the intersection of sport, faith, and authentic community. Her message resonates especially at a time when the conversation around women’s athletics is evolving, and her leadership provides a beacon for athletes seeking clarity, confidence, and conviction.
Walsh University is honored to welcome Samantha Kelley as the 2025 Commencement Speaker. Her commitment to faith, leadership, and service exemplifies the mission of Walsh University and offers a powerful message of purpose and identity for this year’s graduates.
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