KATHLEEN KENEDY

Kathleen Kennedy is a dynamic force in educational leadership, renowned for her commitment to empowering women to step into their full potential as leaders. With a career rooted in the belief that education is society’s greatest equalizer, Kathleen has made it her mission to ensure every child has a champion and every school has a voice. Through her visionary leadership at the Center for Communication & Engagement (CC&E), she has reimagined how schools connect with their communities and secure the resources needed to transform lives. After an early start in journalism, Kathleen found her true calling in public relations, where her proficiency in strategic communication could drive real change. Her leadership journey took a pivotal turn as Communication Chief for a large urban school district, where she led a team through both everyday challenges and extraordinary crises. She used her crisis communication to help serve on a volunteer communication team for a neighboring school district during the devastating 2013 Moore, Oklahoma EF-5 tornado. Her calm, clear leadership in crisis situations is one of the hallmarks of her leadership. Recognizing a gap in communication expertise within education, Kathleen founded CC&E in 2014. The center now serves as a lifeline for schools lacking dedicated communication professionals and a launchpad for educational leaders, especially women who want to make a difference. Under her guidance, school districts have secured over $1.25 billion through bond/tax referendums, providing much-needed capital for students and teachers. This is a testament to her ability to inspire collective action and lead with purpose. Kathleen’s leadership philosophy centers on helping women recognize their own agency and boldly claim their place at the table. As a transformation and communication coach, she guides women leaders to develop strategic perspectives, balance professional and personal roles, and confidently navigate challenging environments. Her workshops and speaking engagements are known for their humor, tears and laughter, practical wisdom, and creating spaces where women can grow, connect, and thrive. She also co-hosts the Thrive Conference, which provides free professional development and joyful learning opportunities for educators. Kathleen’s approach is inspirational yet intentional. She believes that leadership is not about perfection but about showing up authentically, lifting others, and embracing the messy, beautiful journey of making a difference. Outside of her professional life, Kathleen finds inspiration in her role as a mom to a bright middle school daughter with a passion for tennis and to Finley, a golden doodle with a flair for drama and a heart full of love.

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