As a project manager at the RCU, LaNell Kellum supports the RCU's special education and secondary education efforts. She is an accomplished administrator with an extensive background in educational administration, research, project development and management, and teaching in Mississippi and Oklahoma. Kellum holds a Ph.D. in Community College Leadership from Mississippi State University, MSU, where she also received her master's and bachelor's degrees in education. Dr. Kellum previously served as the Director of Postsecondary Career and Technical Education for the MS Community College Board and as Senior Research Associate for the Stennis Institute of Government and the Research and Curriculum Unit at Mississippi State University.

Kellum previously directed the Eastern Oklahoma Educational Opportunity Center at Rogers University. She also served the Columbus (Mississippi) School District, where she directed McKellar Technology Center, served as principal of Columbus High School, and acquired and managed reading and technology state grants, and was the district's first Early College Facilitator. During her career, Kellum has developed state curriculum frameworks, conducted research, designed and conducted professional development for teachers and administrators, and chaired state work teams to acquire federal education and workforce development funds for the Mississippi Department of Education and the MS Community College Board.