Today, Mayor Sly James is pleased to appoint Julie Holland as the first Education Advisor ever to serve in the City of Kansas City’s Mayor’s Office. Holland, whose start date is December 1st, will focus on developing innovative community partnerships to support student achievement across Kansas City’s 14 school districts. “I want our community to focus on education, specifically the academic achievement of our students, like it never has before,” said Mayor Sly James. “That begins with my office. Julie will be singularly focused on issues related to education because there is no neighborhood, business, or community goal that isn’t touched in some way by the educational achievement of our students.”
Holland previously was a manager at the Kauffman Foundation, where she developed and supported programs to improve the academic achievement of students in urban schools and to improve math and science education for all students in the Kansas City area.
She also worked in Congressman Frank Lucas’ Office (3rd district of Oklahoma) as a legislative correspondent, field representative and economic development director.
Holland, who currently resides in Waldo, has a Doctorate in Law and Policy from Northeastern University, a Master of Public Affairs from Syracuse University, and a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science from Oklahoma State University.
“I know Julie’s familiarity with local education opportunities and challenges means that she will hit the ground running on day one,” said Mayor Sly James. “I”m thrilled to welcome someone with such expertise in education, public policy, and community development to my team.”
Holland was chosen from an extensive pool of candidates after a month-long application period. This Mayor’s Office position will be housed in City Hall and fills a vacant position on the Mayor’s staff. Holland will be directly accountable to the Mayor and his Chief of Staff. The funding for the position is a partnership between the Mayor’s Office and the Kauffman Foundation.
