Don't miss this special story about how a childhood experience inspired a career in civil engineering!

Join us for a special event featuring Courtney Kelly – an award-winning civil engineer, accomplished construction management professional and self-published children's book author. A New Orleans native inspired by her experience during Hurricane Katrina, Courtney has turned passion into purpose through both her profession and her books. Her books, Celeste Saves the City and Celeste Tunnels Underground, has sold over 5,000 copies in 10 countries and has been translated into French and other languages.

Come and listen to her book read aloud in a special bilingual storytime, followed by a sharing of her personal story and insights into the world of civil engineering.

14 June 2025, 4pm
Level 2, La Médiathèque.
For ages 5-10 


English-French bilingual storytelling, presentation in English and book sale and signing onsite.

About the author

Award-winning civil engineer, Courtney Kelly, has made a name for herself both as a well-respected construction management professional and self-published children's book author. She earned bachelor's degrees in civil engineering and maths as well as a master's degree in civil engineering from Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas. Courtney also holds an MBA from Lamar University and is a licenses professional engineer. In 2023, she was selected as an Engineering News-Record Texas and Louisiana Top Young Professional.  

Born and raised in New Orleans, Louisiana, the experience of evacuating from Hurricane Katrina during her sophomore year of high school sparked her curiosity in civil engineering. Courtney transformed her story into her self-published children's books, Celeste Saves the City, and Celeste Tunnels Underground, which encourage readers to pursue careers in civil engineering and construction. Since the release of the first book in 2022, over 5,000 copies have been sold across 10 countries and the books have been translated into multiple languages. 

Courtney currently resides in Dallas, Texas where she serves as Project Director for H.J. Russell & Company, a commercial construction firm. Most recently, she has become an adjunct professor at Southern Methodist University teaching Quality Management in Construction. Additionally, she sits on the advisory board for KRANE, an AI-powered logistics and supply chain management platform built to enhance efficiency on construction projects. In her spare time, she enjoys attending performing arts events, travelling, and spending time with her fluffy bunny, Albus.