“Deus Providebit isn’t just Chapelle’s motto—it’s mine as well, and I carry it with me every day.”

2025 ALUMNA OF THE YEAR

Kelly Mullen Shepherd '84

Kelly Mullen Shepherd, a proud graduate of Archbishop Chapelle High School Class of 1984, earned her Bachelor of Science in Finance from Louisiana State University in 1988. With 34 years of experience in the banking industry, Kelly began her career at Hibernia National Bank and later Capital One. She currently serves as a Retail Support Specialist at Gulf Coast Bank and Trust Company.

Kelly and her husband, Dean, were married in 1996 and are proud parents of two daughters, Margaret (Class of 2017) and Natalie (Class of 2019), both Chapelle graduates. Kelly’s Chapelle legacy also includes her sisters, Laura Mullen (Class of 1982) and Amy Mullen Hope (Class of 1994).

An active member of St. Ann Church and National Shrine Parish, Kelly serves on the Parish Finance Council and as an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion.

Kelly has been deeply committed to supporting Archbishop Chapelle High School through countless volunteer roles. She began her service on the Emerald Gala Committee in its early stages and later contributed as a member of the Advisory Board. As her daughters attended Chapelle, Kelly further immersed herself in the community, serving as Treasurer of the Parents Club Board and helping organize key events such as Craft Fair and Prom Fest. She has also been an integral member of Chapelle’s strategic planning committees and currently serves as Treasurer on the Alumnae Board.

During her time as a Chapelle student, Kelly was a member of Mu Alpha Theta, the National Honor Society, and actively participated in Academic Games, all while supporting her friends in their extracurricular activities. She fondly reflects on the joy she experienced as her daughters attended Chapelle, allowing her to share cherished traditions, from rallies to Ring Mass. One of her greatest memories was marching alongside her daughters, both Chapellettes, in Mardi Gras parades—an opportunity she treasures as much as her own time as a student.

Kelly is passionate about fostering alumnae involvement, believing that an active alumnae presence on campus inspires current students to stay connected to Chapelle long after graduation. “I love Chapelle, and the time I spend here is so fulfilling. It’s incredibly rewarding to see how our efforts contribute to the success and happiness of our students, and to witness the growth of initiatives that support our school’s future.”

Kelly considers Chapelle and its community a lifeline of support throughout her life. She remains dedicated to giving back to the school that has given so much to her. “Deus Providebit” isn’t just Chapelle’s motto—it’s mine as well, and I carry it with me every day.”