2024 Most Influential Women: Kim Connell

The school district is probably the most foundational building block of any community, and in Hollister that’s especially true due to the efforts of the district’s chief connector – Kim Connell.

Connector is the perfect word to describe Connell, who serves as the communications director for the Hollister R-V School District. She keeps the district and community – students, teachers, parents, businesses and civic organizations – all connected through an intricately wired and innovative network of support that drives collective success.

“One significant example of my leadership is the development and implementation of a strategic communications plan that leverages multiple platforms, including social media, newsletters, interpersonal communications and community events,” says Connell. “This strategy has significantly improved the district’s ability to connect with parents, students, staff and the broader community, ensuring that everyone stays informed and engaged.”

What’s good for the district is good for the community, and Connell’s commitment to improving the community’s overall success is total. She volunteers extensively, and spearheaded Hollister’s annual Night of the Tiger, which is among many events she has organized to showcase the district’s achievements and build relationships with the community.

She’s also proud of her role in the Family at the Heart of Hollister campaign.

“This initiative highlights our district’s commitment to creating a supportive and inclusive environment. Through storytelling, community events and targeted outreach, we have strengthened the sense of community within our schools and beyond,” she says.

She’s acutely aware of how business involvement helps drive community success, and she contributes to that success by serving on the board of the Hollister Area Chamber of Commerce.

“I have collaborated with local business leaders to drive economic growth and enhance community engagement. My work with the chamber has involved organizing events, spearheading marketing initiatives and fostering partnerships that benefit both the business community and our schools,” she says.

Connell says what sets her apart as a leader is what also sets the community of Hollister apart, and that is its reputation as a welcoming, nurturing environment, a great place to work, a great place to live and a great place to raise a family.

“It is not just what sets me apart from other professionals but what sets my community apart from other communities,” she says. “Nothing that I have accomplished professionally or personally would be possible without the support of those around me.”