Healthy Community Initiative

Healthy Community Initiative (HCI) presented Northfield Superintendent Matt Hillmann with its first “Friend of HCI” award Wednesday, April 15, at its annual community breakfast at St. Olaf College.

District Youth Council (DYC) co-chairs Delphine Hawkins and Atticus Mayer made the surprise announcement halfway through the program. 

The award was given to Dr. Hillmann for his steadfast and enthusiastic support of HCI and its programs—including Youth on Boards, TORCH, and the Northfield Promise initiative—during his tenure with the Northfield Public Schools. Hillmann announced in February that he will leave the district at the end of the 2025-26 school year to become the next Executive Director of the Minnesota Association of School Administrators (MASA).

“Dr. Hillmann has always made sure I feel heard in every room I’m in,” Delphine said. “For example, when we attended Day at the Capitol, he made sure I had the opportunity to share the Student Gun Pledge Against Violence—a project that DYC and I worked very closely on—with those representing us in the Minnesota legislature. In that moment, Dr. Hillmann didn’t just give me the space to speak, he encouraged me, supported me, and was genuinely excited to see student voices being represented.”

Atticus said Dr. Hillmann has had a direct and lasting impact on him.

“Dr. Hillmann, you’ve consistently made space for student voices. You’ve listened to our ideas, supported our goals, and treated us like partners in making our schools better. Every policy committee I’m reminded that with you around I’m not just allowed, but welcomed and encouraged to voice my own opinions on debated issues and policies,” he said.

Atticus recalled a time in his sophomore year (his first year on the DYC) when he felt too nervous to bring his thoughts to the table—at least, until Dr. Hillmann asked him directly if he had any ideas to share. 

“It was just one word, I don’t even remember what word anymore, but what I do remember is the feeling of pride when my idea was stamped into the policy of Northfield Public Schools, and without you there and encouraging me, I don’t know if I ever would’ve been confident enough to present my own thoughts to the committee,” Atticus said. “Your support of HCI over the years has helped create opportunities for students to lead, connect, and grow—and we’re incredibly grateful for that.” 

The 250+ breakfast attendees rose for a standing ovation as Dr. Hillmann joined Delphine and Atticus at the front of the room to accept the award, and the three posed for a photo.

HCI extends its deepest gratitude to Dr. Hillmann for the compassionate leadership he has provided to youth during his tenure, as well as his lasting support for HCI and its programs. HCI is proud to honor him with the first “Friend of HCI” award in celebration of all he has done for our community.