Kelly J. Zúñiga, Ed.D., CFRE

Visionary leader with over 30 years of experience in building, managing, and leading teams that focus on the successful execution of donor-based philanthropy advisory services. Specializes in capital projects, capital/endowment campaign fundraising, programs, and grant awards.

Excels in board of director partnerships, internal and external communications, stewarding financial resources, and building teams to create institutions with sustainability and impact.

Serves as a leader in Houston and surrounding communities and acts as a strong community advocate for educational institutions, museums, and nonprofits.

Immediately prior to founding KZ Consulting, Dr. Zúñiga was responsible for the management and operation of Holocaust Museum Houston. In this role, she reported to a 32-member Board of Directors and a 75-member Board of Advisors. During her 10-year tenure, she was responsible for daily operations of the Museum and served as the CEO for the Holocaust Museum Houston Foundation and its 14-member board. Under her leadership, Holocaust Museum Houston became the only fully bilingual Holocaust Museum in the US. In 2019, Holocaust Museum Houston completed the largest capital campaign in its history. This included successfully raising $52,000,000 and completely renovating the facility by expanding its footprint by 36,000 square feet. The Museum now welcomes 100,000 visitors a year and serves more than 48 independent school districts.

Dr. Zúñiga continues to serve in volunteer leadership positions throughout Houston and the surrounding communities. She is a strong advocate for the non-profit sector and its strength and stability. Passionate about teaching and mentoring students, young professionals, and fellow volunteers, she enjoys sharing her enthusiasm for the importance of mission-driven organizations. As an American Leadership Forum Senior Fellow, Class of XXXIV, Dr. Zúñiga is connected with a deep regional leadership network and continues to maintain and foster relationships with ALF Fellows.

Experience Spotlight - Legacy Lounge

Kelly was invited to speak on the Stavis Wealth podcast, The Legacy Lounge. Listen in to gain insight to Kelly’s perspective on charitable giving, donor-advised funds, the impact of the looming sunset of the federal estate tax exemption on giving, how giving can bring together multiple generations, and how to start teaching your children about philanthropy.

Awards & Recognitions

  • Successfully renovated and expanded Holocaust Museum Houston from 21,000 to 57,000 square feet over four years. Received the Houston Business Journal’s 2020 Landmark Award: Community Impact Winner Link to View Link to View

  • In 2019, was selected by the Houston Business Journal as one of the Houston Business Journal’s Most Admired CEO’s Link to View

  • American Leadership Forum Senior Fellow, Class of XXXIV Link to View

  • Currently serving as the Practicum Instructor for the LINE Certificate program at Rice University. Link to View

  • Dr. Zúñiga, was selected by the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) as the 2016 recipient of the M. Anne Murphy Award for Professional Advancement. Dr. Zúñiga has served as an adjunct lecturer at The Bush School of Government & Public Service since 2010 and recurrently at the Susanne M. Glasscock School of Continuing Studies at Rice University Link to View