Kelly Costa
Board Liaison
(she/her)

Kelly is an accomplished detail wrangler who uses her problem-solving skills to support nonprofits and social justice funders. Over the years, she has worked behind the scenes to champion bold leaders with compelling research, vivid design, and excellent management and administrative skills.

“Skyline’s commitments to strengthen democratic participation, advance economic security, and support investigative journalism are what excite me. This small-but-mighty team moves significant resources in a trust-based way. We believe in our grantees and care deeply about shifting systems to build a more just future.” says Kelly. As Board Liaison, Kelly partners with Skyline’s Executive Director, provides support to the board, and manages a range of communications and strategic initiatives across the team.

Kelly has a BS in Graphic Communications from CalPoly SLO and a Masters in Geography and Human-Environmental Studies from San Francisco State University. For the past three decades, Kelly’s work with influential leaders has shaped her deep commitment to systems change. She has spent years supporting the innovative work of the Libra Foundation and the Democracy Frontlines Fund. For more than a decade she ran point on a range of projects for Paul Hawken and co-led the Natural Capital Institute; has conducted original research for the Silicon Valley Institute for Regional Studies and its annual Index; and for nearly 15 years, contributed to the work of Open Impact—managing communications projects for the Sobrato Philanthropies, and carrying out all Silicon Valley giving data research for The Giving Code.

Born in San Jose, Kelly lives in San Francisco with her husband and has two grown daughters living and working overseas. When she’s not on the job, you can find her volunteering in her community, traveling, experimenting in the kitchen, or jogging with her pandemic-puppy Penny Lane.