Kelly received both her Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Sciences degree as well as her Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies degree from Marquette University in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. She previously worked at the Medical College of Wisconsin, performing various ultrasound and fluoroscopic guided procedures, including paracentesis, thoracentesis, and the evaluation of abscess drainage catheters.

Kelly is a board certified Physician Assistant by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA), and is also certified in basic and advanced cardiac life support. She is a member of the American Academy of Physician Assistants (AAPA) and the Illinois Academy of Physician Assistants (IAPA).