Kay Donnellan, Project Coordinator, "Violins of Hope Birmingham"  

Kay Donnellan retired in 2016 and shortly thereafter helped spearhead the effort to bring VOH to
Birmingham. Having seen a segment on CBS Sunday Morning, she was deeply moved by the
program’s conversion of a tragic chapter in history into a hopeful message demonstrating the power
of the human spirit to overcome evil and hatred. 

Since moving to Alabama in 1980, Kay has been actively involved in the community. She combined
her professional life with many civic endeavors. Kay belongs to the Junior League of Birmingham, St
Luke’s Church, and the 2014 Leadership Birmingham class.  She also acts as a reviewer for the
Smith Scholarship Foundation and a volunteer for Founders Place where she works to enhance the
quality of life for adults with memory care loss and provides respite to caregivers. 

Kay has a special interest in Sawyerville, a nonprofit creating opportunities for children and youth in
Hale County. There she serves on the Board and played a pivotal role in the development of a
mentoring class to broaden the horizons of students and equip them with critical life skills. 
She is co-founder of Art Forms at Mountain Brook Junior High. This annual event, which recently
celebrated its 25th anniversary, showcases student talent in the literary, visual and performing arts.  
Kay earned a B.S. from Purdue University with the highest distinction. Her professional path led to a
career in estates and trusts. She was Sterne Agee’s Executive Vice President and Director of
Personal Trust and served as President of the Alabama Planned Giving Council. 

Kay enjoys walking, reading, gardening, and spending time with her grandchildren in the North
Carolina mountains. She appreciates the encouragement and support received from her husband,
Bruce, during their 45 years of marriage.