Nicole Connell, M.Ed.
Chief of Innovation and Effectiveness

Nicole Connell is the Chief of Innovation and Effectiveness for the Department of Behavioral Health and Intellectual disAbility Services (DBHIDS), a senior-level position in which she oversees the DBHIDS Division of Planning Innovation and is responsible for the development and integration of innovative approaches to advance behavioral health wellness and treatment. Connell serves on the Division Leadership and Executive Management teams at DBHIDS.

Prior to her role as Chief of Innovation and Effectiveness, Connell was DBHIDS Chief of Staff and Operations, a position that directly supported the commissioner and provided strategic direction on a broad range of administrative, legislative, and financial priorities.

Connell is a native Philadelphian with more than 15 years of experience working across local and federally funded social service entities and nonprofit community-based organizations. Her expertise includes partnership development, strategic planning/alignment, and innovative process development that fosters organizational change with notable outcomes.

Before joining DBHIDS in 2014, Connell worked in leadership roles in various human service, education, and nonprofit settings in Philadelphia. Her wide-ranging experience across the public service continuum ranges from direct service to senior leadership. This experience contributes to her in-depth knowledge of complex community challenges, social determinants of health, and effective organization operations.

Connell is exceptionally passionate and connected to various efforts to improve the quality of life for the people of Philadelphia, specifically those with the greatest needs. She is a graduate of Temple University and Eastern University and is a public administration doctoral candidate. Connell remains active in civic and service engagement and is committed to working alongside the community to advance behavioral health and wellness for all Philadelphians.