Estelle J Kelsey Foundation

The Nevada Women’s History Project gratefully acknowledges the support of the Estelle J. Kelsey Foundation for funding this educational unit of our website, a visionary step first imagined by NWHP Founder Jean Ford prior to her passing in 1998 “The Estelle J. Kelsey Grant enables NWHP to expand its website with educational materials that explore the civic, cultural, and social contributions
of Nevada women—equipping young people with knowledge and offering inspiring role models to foster meaningful community engagement.”

Estelle Nicholas Jamieson Kelsey (1913-2013), the daughter of a Russian immigrant, lived to witness a century of progress in women’s roles and opportunities in the workplace. In a time when higher education was not commonly pursued by women, she came to view education as a driving force in achieving equity and empowerment. Moving to Nevada in 1972, Estelle immediately became involved in philanthropic activities in Northern Nevada with her husband, Don. Estelle established her own foundation in 2013.