Miami Regionals welcomes new Regional Director of Development

Yvette R. Kelly-Fields was recently named regional director of development at Miami University Regionals. Kelly-Fields’ focus is to raise dollars to support Miami Regionals student scholarships and programs. 

“The Regionals have needed a dedicated fundraiser for years, and the wait was certainly worth it,” said Ellen Paxton, senior director of external relations and communication. “Yvette has been an amazing addition to the team, bringing so much knowledge, experience and a very sunny disposition. She came to us in the middle of the pandemic and has made the most of every day.” 

Kelly-Fields brings more than 20 years of experience to the Regionals in raising funds to support higher education and workforce development. In recent years that impact has been focused on education, calling it the great equalizer. An educated person is better positioned to have a better quality of life for themselves and their families. Kelly-Field has seen it transform her life and the lives of many others. 

“I love connecting people and resources to causes that are for the greater good,” said  Kelly-Fields. “I believe the greatest use of my gift is helping a person connect to their giving passion. I simply help them do what they already want to do - use their philanthropy to have an impact.”

She earned a bachelor's degree in urban affairs from Wright State University and a master's in philanthropy from Indiana University Lilly School of Philanthropy. She also holds a certification in nonprofit management from Indiana University. 

In her down time, Kelly-Fields enjoys reading and her new found love of cooking. She and her husband, James Fields III, have two children, Lyric and James. She is also involved in her church as a Sunday school teacher.