Welcome to The Leadership Visalia Connection!


A 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.

Dear Leadership Visalia Alumni,


Spring is a season of renewal and a perfect time to reconnect with the Leadership Visalia community. One of the best parts of the program is that the relationships don’t end at graduation. Our alumni network is full of leaders who care deeply about this community, and when we stay connected, great things continue to happen. 

This season, lean back in. Grab coffee with a classmate, attend an alumni event, or share your expertise. Get involved with the Alumni Program and help keep the Leadership Visalia spirit strong. Your voice, ideas, and energy make a difference! 





-Jena Rodriguez

Leadership Visalia Facilitator

Public Safety Day Session Highlights:


In February, the Leadership Visalia class spent the day exploring Public Safety and Justice, learning about the challenges facing our community and the creative ways local agencies are making a difference. Participants heard from the Visalia Police HOPE Team, Tulare County Sheriff’s HEART Team, and Family Services of Tulare County, discovering how outreach, collaboration, and prevention help build safer, stronger communities. A tour of the Visalia Navigation Center highlighted how coordinated support from housing to job training can transform lives, and the day wrapped up with a K9 demonstration and Fire Department overview, leaving the class with a deeper understanding of the people and programs keeping our community safe. 

Afternoon Session Update:


In February, the Leadership Visalia class dove into a leadership book on building trust and uplifting teams, then brought ideas to life by sharing key takeaways from a podcast on self-reflection. 

Name: Heather Reed

Company: Tulare County HHSA

Title: Personnel Services Officer


What year did you graduate from Leadership Visalia?

May 2021


Where do you currently work and what is your role?

I serve as a Personnel Services Officer, working alongside an incredible HR team of 44 professionals who support nearly 1,900 employees.

How has Leadership Visalia impacted your personal or professional life?

Leadership Visalia was a truly memorable and enriching experience. The connections I made during the program have been incredibly valuable, both personally and professionally.


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

One lesson that has stayed with me is: “Every interaction is an interview, and first impressions matter.” You never know when your paths will cross again with someone, and they may become a resource to you, or you to them.


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

I’m passionate about serving where I’m needed most, using my knowledge, skills, and abilities to make an impact. No task is too big or too small when it comes to helping others or making a difference, even if it's just one person.


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

If you're new to the area, considering a leadership role, or have been in one for less than 10 years, this program offers tremendous value. You truly get out what you put in, so invest your time, be present, build connections, and actively participate. It’s an investment in yourself and your community. Lastly, if you’ve been in a leadership role for 7+ years, still consider joining as a participant or contributing to another capacity; this program depends on leaders building other leaders in our community. 


What’s something fun or unexpected that people might not know about you? (Hidden talent, favorite hobby, etc.)

  1. I give back to the community through my car club, The Visalia Pharaohs. Each year, we’re proud to donate over $4,500 to Tulare County programs and support more than 20 local organizations through car shows and fundraisers. Follow us: The Pharaohs of Visalia
  2. In 2023, I competed in the Steak Cookoff Association World Championship in Texas and returned as a two-time Ancillary World Champion! Follow my BBQ journey at Furyous Fire BBQ


COMMUNITY OPPORTUNITIES:

Arts Visalia

Board Application

CASA of Tulare County

Volunteer Opportunities

CSET

Volunteer Opportunities

Habitat for Humanity of Tulare/Kings Counties

Bird House Auction-Seeking Committee Members

Sequoia Riverlands Trust (SRT)

Volunteer Opportunities

Have an Opportunity to Share?


If you have something to share with the Leadership Visalia Alumni Network, please contact Jena Rodriguez to submit your listing.

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