Kathleen Connell, Neighbor

Kathleen Connell assumed the position of AARP-RI Senior State Director in 2001 following a long career in public service, education and health care. Prior to joining AARP, Kathleen was the Coordinator of Governmental Relations at Brown University’s Northeast and Islands Regional Educational Laboratory. She is a Registered Nurse and a former Health Educator. 

Her career in public service included three terms as the elected Secretary of State in Rhode Island, a term in the Rhode Island Senate and sixteen years elected to local town offices in Middletown.  In that time she was a leader in numerous education and health care issues, and in issues affecting women. As Secretary of State she continued to lead on the issues of voter education and parity for women.

Kathleen has been involved with the Japan-America Society/Black Ships Festival as president and now as president emeritus. She currently serves on the Board of Directors of Quality Partners of Rhode Island

Her awards and recognitions include:  Citation of the Consul General of Japan; The John E. Fogarty Humanitarian Award; The Salve Regina University Alumna of the Year Award;  The Quality Partners of Rhode Island Lifetime Achievement Award and membership in the Rhode Island Heritage Hall of Fame

She holds a Masters Degree in International Relations and Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing, both from Salve Regina University.