The League is devastated over the loss of Kelli Kukura, a dear friend, wife and mother who served as the organization's Learning and Development Strategist and who earlier played a central role in its Government Affairs division. Kelli passed away on Wednesday after a prolonged battle with cancer.
Her husband, John, provided the following comments on social media: “Our sweet Kelli Kukura passed away just after three o'clock this afternoon with all the grace and calm she had hoped to have. We're shattered inside. But we know the overwhelming love for those she loved will always live on. One request: tell someone you love, that very sentiment this evening.
"We will share details about an end of life celebration soon.
“Thank you, Kelli, for showing us how to live. We will be forever grateful for your incredible and loving heart."
A
GoFundMe page has been created to benefit her family.
As
reflected on the fundraiser page, Kelli had explained the following: “After 6 +
years of metastatic breast cancer, 16 different chemos, tons of radiation and
surgeries, my body has decided it has had enough. So glad I didn’t have to
decide.
“So just two goals now: 1. Grace and 2. Calm.
“I truly could not ask for things to be going any better than they are. God's got me.
"All is well with my soul. Any extra hugs for my sweet and amazing family right now would be my only request. I am overwhelmed with their blessings.
“Love and hugs."
Kelli was a beloved member of the League and other organizations she served. Her time with the League began in 2008, having transitioned from a 12-year tenure in public and government affairs roles at DuPont. She became the League's Director of Government Affairs and helped to form the organization's first Government Affairs Department. She oversaw numerous programming and functional additions for the organization, and did so with good team morale.
“Kelli's purpose for living was the elimination of barriers to greater happiness and future possibilities," said Paul Meyer, NCLM Executive Director and longtime friend of Kelli. They worked side by side in the Government Affairs Department. "She had an innate ability to unpack a tangled up mess, and build a path to beneficial outcomes for all involved. Memories of her zest for life and positive energy will continue to inspire us to learn and grow, so we can become the best versions of ourselves. She will be missed."
Kelli moved on to Duke Energy as its Director of Government Affairs in 2013, serving in that role for more than six years before rejoining the League as its Learning and Development Strategist.
We will remember Kelli for her kindness, hard work and many achievements. Our thoughts and hearts are with Kelli's family and friends in this very difficult time.