Kezia Lilly

Sparta, MO

Dean in the College of Health Professions at Chamberlain University

Charity: Harmony House

The only thing Kezia Lilly ever wanted to be when she grew up was a nurse, just like her grandmother. She has always had a passion for helping others, and dived headfirst into nursing school to receive her RN, BSN, two master’s degrees and a doctorate. But the lifelong learner didn’t earn those degrees without some setbacks. “In nursing school, I failed third semester and was told by a nursing instructor I would never be a nurse and that I should drop out,” she says. “[That drive to keep going] was one of my biggest motivational reasons for going into nursing education.” Now, Lilly sets other students up for success in reaching their career goals. As a dean in the College of Health Professions, she is responsible for developing and creating innovative online programs for Chamberlain University. Her desire is to design programs that allow students to maintain a positive work/life/school balance, something she experienced as a working and learning mom. “I help them do things that they’re told are impossible, and turn negatives into positives,” she says. Rooting for the underdog is a trait Lilly shares with her late sister, Sarina, and what she uses to honor her every day. “So much of what she did for me taught me to stand up for myself,” she says. “By her pushing me to be better, I can do that for others. You need an advocate.” 

Aesthetic Services by Bharat Shah MD, FACS and Kara Walker, PA-C | Fall fashions by Harem & Company | Fine jewelry by Justice Jewelers | Hair by W3 Salon