Image: SD33 / The Chilliwack Board of Education is pictured. SD33 announced this week that it has hired Shelley O'Brien as its manager of communication. O'Brien is expected to play a crucial role in implementing and executing communication strategies in support of the Chilliwack Board of Education’s strategic plan and facilitate the understanding and achievement of the district’s priorities, goals, and objectives.
Chilliwack School District

Chilliwack School District appoints communication manager

Mar 26, 2024 | 9:01 AM

CHILLIWACK — Filling a critical need within its administrative operations, the Chilliwack School District says it has hired Shelley O’Brien as its communication manager.

According to a news release from SD33 dated Monday, March 25, O’Brien will step into the role of the communication manager on March 25, where she is expected to play a crucial role in implementing and executing communication strategies in support of the Chilliwack Board of Education’s strategic plan and facilitate the understanding and achievement of the district’s priorities, goals, and objectives.

Some of this work will encompass supporting the ongoing important work of clarifying communication with partner groups, parents, guardians, caregivers, staff, First Nations, community members and organizations.

Anchored by over 18 years of experience in senior administration and communications roles, O’Brien has held diverse roles, including internal communications manager, chief of staff, and administrative officer across tech, finance, energy, and education sectors. Her extensive experience spans successfully managing operations and communications for executive leadership teams, boards, faculty, students, and investors.

“O’Brien has a proven track record in implementing communications strategies and establishing sustainable communication processes,” SD33 wrote in a statement. “As an Indigenous professional, she actively supports Indigenous advocacy groups, providing volunteer copyediting and grant proposal writing services to advance Indigenous community interests.”

Commenting on the appointment, SD33 Superintendent Rohan Arul-pragasam stated, “We are excited to welcome Shelley to our team as the District’s Communication Manager. Through her extensive, rich experiences across multiple organizations over the last 18 years, coupled with her commitment to fostering inclusivity and belonging through strategic communications and enhancing workflow competencies, Ms. O’Brien will support the creation of a rich District culture where students and adults will continue to thrive.”

With a certificate in communications and public Relations from Western University, complemented by the completion of BA (Honours) in English from Queen’s University in June 2024, SD33 says O’Brien brings a wealth of experience to this role.

“She will be a strong addition to the Chilliwack School District Leadership team, which is instrumental in implementing the Board of Education’s strategic plan with laser focus, supporting a culture where we continue to champion the human spirit,” SD33 concluded.