The latest episode of Tell Us Your Story brings back a familiar and inspiring guest: Mayor Holly Andreatta. As a leader dedicated to both the City of Lincoln and William Jessup University, Holly embodies the values of service, resilience, and growth—traits that align closely with the core of the Arena philosophy.
A Life of Service and Leadership
Holly’s journey is a testament to dedication and balancing multiple leadership roles. Currently serving her second term as Mayor and seventh year on the Lincoln City Council, she continues to push forward initiatives that improve the community. Additionally, her role at Jessup University allows her to connect with donors and contribute to the university’s growth, helping students achieve higher education with minimal financial burden.
Beyond her professional roles, Holly’s commitment to service extends into her volunteer work as a chaplain with the Placer County Law Enforcement Chaplaincy. The chaplaincy provides support both to law enforcement officers and the community during some of their most challenging moments. Whether assisting in crisis situations or offering spiritual guidance, she views her role as a “ministry of presence,” standing with people when they need support the most.
Building Relationships that Matter
One of the key themes in Holly’s career is her ability to foster meaningful relationships. As an Advancement Officer at Jessup, she cultivates partnerships with donors who align with the university’s mission. This isn’t just about fundraising—it’s about connecting with people on a deeper level and guiding them in their philanthropic impact.
Her approach is simple yet effective: relationships first. Whether engaging with a donor passionate about aviation, theater, or nursing, Holly ensures that their contributions make a difference. This emphasis on personal connections is not only a strength in her work at Jessup but also in her role as mayor, where understanding the needs of the community is critical.
Transforming Lincoln: A Vision for the Future
Over the past seven years, Holly has played an instrumental role in untangling financial and administrative challenges in Lincoln. With a focus on transparency, economic development, and infrastructure, she has helped steer the city toward stability and growth. A significant milestone includes Lincoln being recognized as the seventh safest city in California, a reflection of both leadership and a dedicated city staff.
Economic development remains a priority, with initiatives aimed at attracting and supporting businesses. One notable success is the long-anticipated Dutch Bros, a project that required perseverance and negotiation to bring to fruition. Additionally, the city’s efforts to recruit businesses and streamline processes demonstrate a commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment.
Another major development is the opening of a new La Quinta hotel, a project that faced legal challenges but ultimately triumphed. Holly shared the excitement of seeing this project come to life, highlighting how it will contribute to Lincoln’s economy while showcasing the perseverance of the local business community. Through innovative programs, such as tax rebates for new hotels, Lincoln is creating opportunities for future growth.
Making the Tough Calls in Leadership
One of the defining moments in Holly’s leadership was navigating a significant increase in utility rates. While a difficult decision, it was necessary to prevent financial insolvency and ensure continued essential services. Leadership isn’t about popularity—it’s about making the right decisions for the long-term health of the community. Holly’s approach of transparency and communication during this process exemplifies her dedication to doing what’s best for Lincoln, even in the face of opposition.
A Bright Future for Lincoln and Jessup
Holly’s leadership is a reminder that success is built on service, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to the community. Whether through her work in city government, higher education, or volunteer service, she continues to embody what it means to step into the Arena—facing challenges head-on and driving positive change.
As Lincoln continues to grow and Jessup thrives, leaders like Holly are paving the way for a future where service, community, and resilience define success.
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