Recently, I sat down with Hilary Trudell, the Producer of the Yarn and Director of Local Programming and Regional Outreach at the Clinton School of Public Service.

Ms. Trudell is a facilitator, producer and educator with over 15 years experience in the field of public service and the arts. She specializes in community engagement, arts education and providing a platform for storytelling and advocacy around themes of social justice. 

Hilary currently works as the Director of Local Programming and Regional Outreach at the Clinton School of Public Service leading first-year students through their first field work experience. 

In 2017, Hilary founded a storytelling initiative called The Yarn, whose mission is to amplify voices, build understanding and create a space for human connection. Currently entering the Yarn's third season, Hilary and her team have produced over 15 shows to date. 

Since moving back to Arkansas in 2015, Hilary has personally coached over 180 people in efforts to help them share their stories succinctly, effectively and with impact. 

In 2018, she also founded the ACANSA Ten-Minute Play Showcase, which she will usher into its third year in March 2020. A board member of the ACANSA Arts Festival, Hilary is a strong believer of leveraging stories as catalysts for community building, education and social change.

Learn more about the Yarn at www.theyarnstorytelling.com.