Welcome to Community Spotlight, a series in which we learn more about the members of our vibrant New Roots Institute network. Below, Kelly Nix, Executive Director of Luvin Arms Animal Sanctuary shares the moment that sparked her advocacy, thoughts on burnout, and what gives her hope for the future.
“I have spent most of my career in education, beginning as a special education teacher before transitioning into school leadership as an assistant principal and then as a K-12 principal. Today, I serve as the Executive Director at Luvin Arms Animal Sanctuary, where I have the privilege of blending my passion for education with my commitment to advocating for farmed animals.
My academic journey has been deeply rooted in education and leadership. I hold a Master’s in Educational Leadership & Principal Licensure from the University of Northern Colorado and a Master’s in Special Education from the University of Colorado Colorado Springs. My commitment to humane education led me to complete a Graduate Certificate in Humane Education at Antioch University. I later transitioned from a master’s program into a doctoral program in Educational & Professional Practice focusing on Humane Education.
In addition to my work at Luvin Arms, I serve on the Board of Directors for the Association of Professional Humane Educators, Community Fruit Rescue, and the Brave New Life Project. My work with the Brave New Life Project is particularly important to me because it recognizes a truth often overlooked: the victims of animal agriculture don’t start and end with farmed animals. The individuals who work within these exploitative systems—many of whom come from marginalized communities—also suffer immense harm. True advocacy requires that we fight for the rights and well-being of farmed animals and stand in solidarity with the workers trapped in these industries. Through my work, I strive to bring awareness to these intersections and foster solutions that create a more just and compassionate world for all.”
“I would tell myself: "Lean into discomfort—it’s where growth happens." The most transformative moments in my life have come when I stepped beyond my comfort zone, whether transitioning from a school administrator to the nonprofit sector or pursuing my doctorate. It’s in those moments of uncertainty that I’ve discovered my purpose.”
“One of the most inspiring aspects of my time with New Roots Institute wasn’t just a single moment, but the entire experience. Being part of a global community of learners, all committed to creating a more just and compassionate world, was incredibly meaningful. Engaging with individuals from diverse backgrounds and perspectives reinforced my belief that education is one of the most powerful tools for change.
I deeply admire the work that New Roots Institute is doing—providing education that challenges the status quo and empowers individuals to take action. Through this experience, I was reminded that real transformation happens when we come together, share knowledge, and support one another in our collective efforts to build a better world.”
“I’m always eager to support others in any way I can, especially when it comes to farmed animal sanctuaries—from operations and education to advocacy and storytelling. I truly believe in the power of storytelling to create meaningful change, and I’m passionate about helping others craft narratives that inspire compassion and action. I also love exploring ways to differentiate experiences for diverse audiences, ensuring that humane education and advocacy efforts are as inclusive and impactful as possible.
At the same time, I’m always looking to expand my own support network and connect with others who share a commitment to education and advocacy. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the mentorship program—it’s been such a rewarding experience to engage more deeply with individuals who are just starting their journey in advocacy, education, and nonprofit work. If I can be a resource to anyone in this space, I’d love to connect!”
“In November 2020, a close friend introduced me to Luvin Arms Animal Sanctuary. At the time, I was unfamiliar with the concept of a farmed animal sanctuary, but I was curious and decided to bring along my two youngest children, ages 2 and 7, for what I assumed would be a simple educational outing.
As we began our tour, our guide discreetly asked if I was comfortable “exposing” my kids to the realities of animal agriculture. Rooted in an educational philosophy that embraces truth—even when it’s challenging—I eagerly consented. What followed was a series of deeply moving encounters with the residents, each with a story of resilience, suffering, and survival.
Then we met Marley Rose. A free-martin calf, Marley had been found alone in her home, her only comfort a stuffed animal cow. The tour guide encouraged us to show her some love, and as I watched my children gently touch her and whisper to her, I listened to her story. In that moment, I fully grasped the heartbreaking reality of the dairy industry—not just Marley’s suffering, but that of her mother and countless others. Tears welled up in my eyes as I realized the depth of the injustice. That moment changed everything for me. I felt compelled to leverage my background in education to advocate for animals and inspire change.
This commitment led me to join Luvin Arms in 2022, and my journey since then has only deepened my passion for humane education and advocacy. That one moment with Marley Rose, watching my children connect with her, solidified my life’s purpose: to use education to amplify the voices of the unheard and create a more just world for all beings.”
“Approach advocacy through an intersectional lens—understanding that the injustices we fight against are deeply interconnected. Whether you are advocating for animal rights, environmental justice, or human rights, recognize that these issues do not exist in isolation. The systems that exploit farmed animals are the same systems that harm marginalized communities, degrade the environment, and perpetuate cycles of oppression. True advocacy requires us to challenge these structures holistically, rather than addressing them as separate, disconnected problems.
Be willing to unlearn and evolve. One of the most powerful things you can do as an advocate is to continuously challenge your own assumptions. Our social conditioning runs deep, and advocacy often requires us to dismantle biases we didn’t even realize we held. Stay open, remain teachable, and recognize that growth is a lifelong process.
Sustainability matters—not just for the planet, but for yourself. Burnout is real, and advocacy can be emotionally exhausting. The weight of suffering—whether it’s that of animals, humans, or ecosystems—can be overwhelming. Remember that you cannot pour from an empty cup. Build a support system, engage in restorative practices, and recognize that long-term change requires long-term commitment. This is not a sprint; it’s a collective movement that needs your voice for years to come.”
“Hope, for me, is found in connection—in witnessing the growing awareness of how deeply intertwined our struggles and solutions truly are. More people than ever are recognizing that justice cannot be compartmentalized, that the fight for animal rights is inextricably linked to human rights, environmental sustainability, and systemic change.
I see hope in the next generation of advocates, educators, and changemakers—individuals who refuse to accept the status quo, who question harmful traditions, and who are unapologetically building a future rooted in compassion. These are young voices who understand intersectionality, who refuse to leave anyone behind in their activism, and who are redefining what it means to create meaningful, lasting change.
I find hope in stories—stories of transformation, resilience, and liberation. Whether it’s a farmed animal who has been given a second chance at life, a worker breaking free from an exploitative system, or a community coming together to fight for justice, these moments remind me that change is not only possible—it’s already happening.
And most of all, I find hope in the power of education. Every conversation, every act of advocacy, every moment of awareness creates a ripple effect. The more we illuminate the truth, the harder it becomes to ignore. The systems we fight against rely on invisibility—on people not knowing or questioning. But once someone truly sees the injustice, it becomes impossible to look away.
Hope isn’t passive; it’s something we build. And as long as there are people willing to learn, to challenge, to stand up and speak out—I know that a more just and compassionate world is not just a dream, but a reality we are actively creating together.”
