Susan Connolly brings 18 years of professional and volunteer experience supporting children, families, and diverse communities in educational and community settings. Her background includes working as a special-needs shadow, volunteering with a special-needs respite program, teaching in a dual-language immersion school, religious day school, and Montessori schools. Through these experiences, she has developed a deep appreciation for each person’s unique story, strengths, and challenges.

Susan has relocated 13 times out of state, experiences that shaped her adaptability, curiosity, and understanding of transition and belonging. After her husband retired from the military they moved to Redding in July 2025, where they enjoy hiking, biking, movies, trying different restaurants, and their two cats. Susan is also a mother of three grown children and a grandmother to one grandson.

Her commitment to supporting others extends beyond education. She has volunteered on a suicide and crisis hotline, served in jail ministry, provided compassionate listening through Community of Hope, and worked as a Care Coach in Redding. These roles have deepened her belief in the importance of being genuinely present with people through both seasons of struggle and seasons of growth.

Susan is currently pursuing a master’s degree in Counseling Psychology at Simpson University. Contemplative, inquisitive, open-minded, and deeply empathetic, she is drawn to understanding the experiences that shape people and to walking alongside those who are striving, struggling, or seeking a greater sense of connection and well-being.

Susan is honored to join Attune and looks forward to creating a compassionate, welcoming space where people of all ages and backgrounds feel heard, understood, and supported.