Holly’s journey has always been fueled by a deep belief in the power of leadership and communication. Her career began in television news as a commercial producer, news producer, and an award-winning reporter and anchor. From Pittsburgh to West Virginia and Roanoke, Virginia, Holly witnessed history and told the stories in real time. For more than a dozen years, she saw the best and worst of humanity from 9-11 and the Virginia Tech shootings to presidential visits, interviews and tales of great heroism. It was Holly’s trusted voice as a storyteller, delivering impactful news to her community and sharpening her skills in communication, connection, and leadership—skills that would come to define her career.

In 2012, Holly made a bold pivot from journalism to the world of philanthropy, joining Virginia Tech as a fundraiser for the College of Architecture and Urban Studies and later the College of Liberal Arts and Human Sciences. Her passion for storytelling seamlessly translated into crafting compelling narratives that inspired donors to invest in transformative projects. Holly’s ability to lead and innovate quickly set her apart, and she soon found herself leading highly successful teams of fundraisers, alumni engagement directors, and communications and marketing professionals. Over her tenure, Holly’s teams raised more than $100 million for Virginia Tech, leaving an indelible mark on the university’s legacy.

She currently serves in a senior leadership role at a national nonprofit organization, where she continues to leverage her expertise to build meaningful relationships, foster impactful change, and drive organizational growth.

Now, Holly is channeling her two decades of experience into her recent venture: Kobia Consulting to expand her impact on a national scale. Kobia Consulting specializes in providing executive coaching and fundraising consulting services with a distinct edge. Holly’s background as a journalist and communicator sets her apart, offering clients a rare combination of media savvy, leadership acumen, and fundraising expertise. Her offerings include project-based strategic work, board and leadership staff development, workshops and opportunities to hear Holly as a keynote speaker. Clients also benefit from her deep knowledge of storytelling and donor engagement, honed through years of crafting narratives that inspire action.

When she’s not helping organizations achieve their visionary and fundraising goals, Holly enjoys life in Blacksburg, Virginia, with her husband, a retired police officer of 17 years who now works in the couple's local gym business, their spirited five-year-old son, a lovable cat, and a retired police dog. Holly’s warmth, wit, and authentic approach to leadership make her not only an exceptional coach but also a trusted partner to the clients and causes she serves. Holly’s vision for Kobia Consulting is as ambitious as it is impactful. Through her work, she aims to show that leadership and communication aren’t just tools for fundraising success—they are the foundation for transforming lives and organizations.

My Blog

We need BIG dreams to fund big goals. That starts with leadership. Holly shares trade secrets and her top tips on how to level up your org for visionary success while optimizing your fundraising potential.