Welcome to The Leadership Visalia Connection!

We're excited to launch this new monthly e-newsletter created just for our alumni community. Each issue will bring you updates on the current class, spotlights on fellow alumni, and meaningful ways to stay involved—whether through volunteering, board service, or reconnecting with old classmates.

Stay tuned, stay engaged, and keep leading the way!

-Jena Rodriguez

Leadership Visalia Facilitator

For over 25 years, Arts Visalia has been the city’s only nonprofit community art center, offering art education for all ages. Leadership Visalia 2024-25 revitalized its classroom to create a more inspiring and accessible space.

Through sponsorships and community support, the cohort updated the room with new furniture, improved lighting, and a fresh design. The transformed space, completed in May 2025, continues to foster artistic expression for Visalians of all backgrounds.

Beyond renovations, the cohort provided marketing support and organized a ribbon-cutting event to engage the community and celebrate the improvements.

“This project was about more than just a classroom upgrade—it was about creating a space where creativity thrives,” said cohort members. “We learned to take action, build partnerships, and leave a lasting impact.”

We are grateful to our sponsors for making this vision a reality.

Where do you currently work and what is your role?

QK, Associate Project Manager, CISEC, QSP

How has Leadership Visalia impacted your personal or professional life?

 Leadership Visalia helped me discover and better understand my leadership abilities, as well as the reasons behind how I present myself in the world. It also deepened my appreciation for community involvement and revealed how much I enjoy being an active part of Visalia’s growing community.

What is one leadership lesson or moment that has stuck with you since the program?

Sticking up for my thoughts and voice.

What are you most passionate about in your career or community work?

I'm deeply passionate about helping others like me discover their voices and what ignites their motivation. Everyone has something valuable to offer, and there's immense fulfillment in encouraging someone to pursue that potential.

What advice would you give someone thinking about joining Leadership Visalia?

Do it! Joining Leadership Visalia can be a great opportunity for personal and professional growth, especially if you're interested in community engagement, networking, and leadership development.

What’s something fun or unexpected that people might not know about you?

I can do the splits...lol