In every leader’s journey, the arena becomes a space where passion, resilience, and purpose converge to inspire meaningful change. For Holly Andrade, former mayor and council member of Lincoln, California, and University Advancement Officer at William Jessup University, the arena represents a lifetime dedicated to education, faith, and servant leadership.
In her enlightening episode of Tell Us Your Story, Holly shares her multifaceted narrative, seamlessly weaving together her roles in education, politics, and community building. Her story is one of courage, faith, and an unwavering commitment to creating a positive impact in the lives of others.
Education as a Catalyst for Change
Holly’s journey begins in the classrooms of middle schools, where she discovered the transformative power of education. Beyond academic instruction, she emphasizes how education shapes society by fostering critical thinking and moral grounding. Her candid reflections on moving her children from Christian to public school reflect her belief in the importance of finding balance between personal values and the realities of public education.
Navigating cultural shifts within the education system from 2005 to 2024, Holly shares insights on presenting balanced perspectives in subjects like history and social studies. Her ability to integrate faith into teaching, while respecting the boundaries of public education, offers a nuanced perspective on the challenges faced by educators today.
Stepping into the Political Arena
From the classroom to the city council chambers, Holly’s transition into politics highlights her courage and tenacity. Her grassroots campaign and eventual rise to mayor exemplify the resilience required to navigate the complexities of local governance. Holly recounts the challenges and triumphs of representing her community, shedding light on the importance of staying steadfast in public service despite adversity.
Her story is a powerful testament to the impact that individuals can have when they step into the political arena with a servant’s heart and a commitment to fostering community growth.
Faith and Leadership at William Jessup University
Holly’s role at William Jessup University reflects her dedication to Christ-centered education and equipping students for success. She passionately discusses initiatives that support diverse student groups, including Hispanic students and former foster youth, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and empowerment in higher education.
Her work in fundraising and community engagement underscores her belief in education as a cornerstone for societal progress. Holly’s leadership philosophy—serving alongside others, leading by example, and building collaborative teams—offers a blueprint for impactful and compassionate leadership.
Visit William Jessup University
Discover the impact of Christ-centered education and Holly Andrade’s contributions to fostering inclusive and transformative initiatives at William Jessup University. Explore the programs, connect with the mission, and see how faith and education intersect to create meaningful change. Click to visit William Jessup University!
Lessons from Holly
Holly Andrade’s story is rich with insights for those aspiring to make a difference:
• Servant Leadership: True leaders serve alongside their teams, never asking others to do what they wouldn’t do themselves.
• Education as Empowerment: Whether in public schools or universities, education has the power to transform individuals and communities.
• Courage in Governance: Stepping into the political arena requires resilience, but it offers an unparalleled opportunity to create lasting change.
• Faith as a Guiding Light: Holly’s integration of faith into her work exemplifies how personal values can inspire professional purpose.
Join the Conversation
Be inspired by Holly Andrade’s story and others like it on our podcast, Tell Us Your Story. Hear her insights on education, politics, and leadership, and discover how she is making a lasting impact. Click to listen to Holly’s story!
Your Turn to Step into the Arena
Holly Andrade’s journey is a shining example of the transformative power of service, education, and leadership. Her story encourages us to reflect on how we can contribute to our communities with courage, compassion, and conviction.
Do you have a story to share from your own arena? At Tell Us Your Story, we celebrate individuals like Holly who inspire others through their dedication and impact. Contact us today to schedule an interview and share your journey with the world. Click to submit your name and story!
