Kelly Hiller

Kelly Hiller serves as chief marketing officer at Purdue University, leading Purdue Brand Studio, the university’s in‑house marketing agency. She oversees integrated teams across marketing strategy, brand, creative and social, bringing the Purdue University brand to life through emotive storytelling and bold creative execution. From social media and digital strategy to design, writing, photography and live production, her team creates content that drives demand, builds reputation, and promotes and protects one of the world’s most respected universities.

Kelly has been working at Purdue since January 2005, when she joined the university’s marketing department as communications coordinator. In 2008 she transitioned to the Purdue Alumni Association, where she managed the communications team and oversaw production of Purdue Alumnus magazine. These roles laid the foundation for her later accomplishments, including leading the Giant Leaps campaign during Purdue’s 150th anniversary, which launched at Homecoming 2018 and concluded at Homecoming 2019. This experience remains a career highlight for her. 

Kelly is a Campaign US 2026 Inspiring Women honoree, a recognition that celebrates leaders and rising stars breaking boundaries across creativity, media, technology and communications. Her work continues to advance bold, barrier-breaking strategies that help reshape how public universities build and activate their brands.   

Known for her ability to remain strong yet flexible amid the winds of chaotic change, she finds daily inspiration in the words “Nevertheless she persisted,” which she had tattooed on her wrist as a reminder to take a deep breath and focus on finding solutions in tough situations. 

Passionate about small-town revitalization, Kelly serves on the school board in her hometown of Attica, Indiana. As a proud mom of four, Kelly’s dedication extends to her family. She enjoys spending quality time with her loved ones and supporting various community events. 

Kelly values the close-knit, supportive atmosphere within her team, where egos are checked at the door and successes are shared. For Kelly, leading at Purdue is not just a job but a team endeavor, where hard work is balanced with fun and care for one another.