CCAA Hometown Heroes is a look at current and former CCAA student-athletes and staff who are now on the front lines in the worldwide fight against COVID-19.  Individuals from CCAA member institutions have answered the call to help battle the pandemic, whether it be in the field of healthcare, as a first responder, through volunteer efforts or a variety of other essential services being performed throughout communities around the state and globe. 

Today, we catch up with Cal State San Bernardino women’s soccer alumna Kelly Keyes, a licensed dietitian nutritionist on the East Coast. After a four year career on the pitch for the Coyotes where she never missed a match, Keyes graduated in 2015 and now works as a nutrition care manager at a nursing care center in Hagerstown, Md.

Elder care centers have been exponentially affected by the current pandemic, not only in cases and with COVID mortality, but also with new guidelines that often include visitor restrictions for residents. For Keyes, supporting those she serves in ways that go beyond nutrition is key in the current circumstances. 

“Motivation makes things happen,” she reflects. “My motivation to help is inspiring others and myself to always find a way forward, creating new experiences and continue to learn during any crisis. As a gatekeeper of the health system, I find joy coming to work everyday being a support system for my residents and the rest of my team.

“I come to work everyday advocating for my residents, balancing their nutritional needs during this pandemic, and striving to build their spirits until they are able to be close to their loved ones again, while keeping a positive attitude.”

Maintaining a sense of balance and positivity has proven to be a necessary skill in 2020. 

“Life has changed not only emotionally, but environmentally,” Keyes says. “Everyday as humans we need to adapt to new procedures and develop new normals, while maintaining a positive attitude and outlook on life.”

For Keyes, part of her positive disposition was shaped by her experiences as a student-athlete. 

“My participation in collegiate athletics influenced me by maintaining confidence, keeping a balanced mind, and fortitude in my workplace to maintain a safe environment for all my residents during this current pandemic,” she adds.

The CCAA salutes Kelly and her residents, and all of our CCAA Hometown Heroes! 

Would you like to share your story? Head to bit.ly/CCAAheroes today >>>