Kelli Hoffman | YWCA Women of Excellence
Kelli Hoffman
Principal
French Middle School
Lead Middle School Principal
Topeka Public Schools
Kelli Hoffman, principal of French Middle School and lead middle school principal for Topeka Public Schools, has 25 years of experience in education. Starting her career as a classroom teacher she understands the needs and rewards of working with students in the classroom everyday, which allows her to better lead her team to achieve academic excellence. She has won the district's Distinguished Staff Award twice, the Robert Dunwell Award for Future Outstanding Educational Administrator and named the Exemplary Principal of the Year by the Kansas Association of Middle School Administrators.
TK: What inspires you?
KELLI: I am inspired most by people who serve others and find fulfillment in helping people. They make me what to strive to be my best self.
TK: What advice do you have for others?
KELLI: My advice to others would be to love and be passionate about your job. When you love what you do, it doesn't feel like work and it brings tremendous joy.
TK: What is the greatest lesson you have learned on your journey?
KELLI: My greatest lesson is to understand that my success is a team effort. I have come to realize that I have so many people in my life that help me be successful. I am humbled by the educators I work alongside daily. I am thankful for my family who support and encourage me in everything that I do. I am appreciative and enjoy celebrating my accomplishments with friends. It is this team that makes me feel successful!
The YWCA is on a mission to empower women at all stages in their careers. Diversity in leadership is particularly vital to our vibrant business community in the Greater Topeka Area.
The YWCA is celebrating 31 years of recognizing Women of Excellence in our community with the theme “Dare to be Powerful.” We dare to be powerful, despite whatever obstacles may present themselves along the way.
“When I dare to be powerful, to use my strength in the service of my vision, then it becomes less and less important whether I am afraid.”
- Audre Lorde
