Upon the October 8th, 2008, retirement of President James Schnoebelen Sr., Kerins was sworn into office as President.

He was elected Vice President in May 2008, served as Trustee of the General Fund from 1990 to 1998 and has been a member since November 13, 1984.

Kelly began working as a stagehand in 1977 and during his career he participated in renovations of the Shubert Theatre in 1984 and the Chicago Theatre in 1986. From 1986-1989 he was Chicago Theatre’s Property Master and in 1991 he became a crew member at Orchestra Hall. He was elevated to Head Electrician in 1995 and was promoted to Stage Manager of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra in 1999.

Kerins received a B. A. degree from Western Illinois University in 1982.