Kelly Rohder-Tonelli

Kelly Rohder-Tonelli , a seasoned higher education professional with a diverse background in strategic communications, marketing, and community engagement, has established herself as a pivotal figure in the Joliet community and beyond. Her journey in higher education began at Joliet Junior College (JJC), where she has served in various roles since 2007, evolving to her current position as the Executive Director of Strategic Engagement on the President’s Cabinet. Kelly has been deeply involved in community service, philanthropy, and executive leadership initiatives. She is a founding member of the Community Foundation of Will County Women’s Leadership Fund, where she played a key role in renovating the MorningStar Mission’s first Women’s Resource Room, facilitating access to technology, professional development, and education for women in need. Her commitment to uplifting others extends to her role as a mentor in the Big Brothers/Big Sisters Mentor 2.0 Program, where she guided two young women through the critical stages of their high school education and continues to support them in their adult lives. Kelly's leadership skills were further highlighted as the National Society of Leadership and Success JJC Chapter Induction Keynote Speaker in 2023, where she inspired a large audience with her insights on strengths-based leadership and talent optimization. Kelly's impact is also evident in her extensive community service. She holds influential positions on several boards, including the Boys and Girls Club of Joliet Board President, Joliet Public Library Trustee, and Joliet Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, contributing significantly to each organization's growth and development. Her strategic leadership in these roles has led to substantial advancements, such as the enhancement of the Gosselin Trust for the Boys and Girls Club and the creation of a Governance Committee to promote diversity and equity in board appointments. Kelly's service has been recognized with prestigious awards like the Reverend James E. Allen Award for Service to the Community and the Illinois General Assembly State Senate Recognition, both in 2021, underscoring her selfless dedication to the betterment of her community. In the realm of professional development and advocacy, Kelly has been a trailblazer. An active participant in statewide and national conferences, she has fostered discussions on crucial topics like equitable marketing and leadership. Her presentations at conferences, such as the American Association of Community Colleges and the National Council for Marketing and Public Relations, showcase her commitment to advancing inclusive and effective marketing strategies in higher education. Kelly's diverse roles and achievements highlight her multifaceted expertise and her unwavering commitment to fostering educational excellence, community development, and empowering women in leadership.

Publications

How Joliet Junior College Leaders Use Design-Thinking to Create and Implement Major Initiatives
How Joliet Junior College Leaders Use Design-Thinking to Create and Implement Major Initiatives
Clyne G. H. Namuo, Yolanda Farmer, Kelly Rohder-Tonelli. © 2024. 19 pages.
Joliet Junior College (JJC), founded in 1901, holds the distinguished title of being the first public community college in the United States. Its establishment marked the...