Director at Large
Nathan Kells (Nate) is a strategic communications professional, accessibility advocate, consultant, and co owner of Kells & Company, LLC. With more than 20 years of experience spanning public gardens, nonprofit organizations, governance, marketing, business development, and community engagement, Nate helps organizations strengthen relationships, improve accessibility, and create meaningful connections with the communities they serve. He holds a bachelor of science degree in advertising and public relations with a minor in graphic design from St. Cloud State University and a master of strategic communications from the University of Minnesota. His professional expertise includes strategic planning, communications, stakeholder engagement, membership development, fundraising, governance, and organizational growth.
In addition to his professional work, Nate is deeply committed to advancing accessibility, disability inclusion, and belonging initiatives. As a wheelchair user, he brings both professional expertise and lived experience to conversations surrounding accessibility, universal design, and equitable community engagement. Through Kells & Company, LLC, he provides consulting services focused on accessibility assessment, disability inclusion, organizational strategy, and community engagement. Nate currently serves as chair of the Governance Committee for the American Public Gardens Association and has held numerous leadership roles supporting local government, education, and nonprofit organizations. He is passionate about helping organizations create welcoming environments where all people can participate, contribute, and thrive.
