Nicole Connell, M.Ed.
DBHIDS Chief of Staff and Operations

Nicole Connell is the Chief of Staff and Operations for the Department of Behavioral Health and Intellectual disAbility Services (DBHIDS). She oversees activities that directly support the Commissioner and directs operations that advance behavioral health and intellectual disability services for the $1 billion healthcare agency. She provides strategic direction on a broad range of administrative, legislative, and financial priorities and establishes policies and procedures that promote company culture and organizational growth.

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 engagement and service organizations and holds leadership positions on several nonprofit boards in Philadelphia.