Katherine Layus is a Bakersfield native, raised by immigrant parents from the Philippines who instilled in her a strong work ethic. Motivated by this upbringing, she pursued a B.S. in Business Administration with a focus in Human Resources Management from California State University, Bakersfield.

Katherine’s career began in the oil, gas, and energy industry, working for Chevron, Occidental Petroleum, and California Resources Corporation. With over 13 years of experience in Human Resources, her passion for helping people and creating impactful initiatives led her to her current role as Organization and Well-Being Lead, Worksites for Blue Zones Project Bakersfield.

After expanding her career across Houston, Texas, and Los Angeles, Katherine returned to her hometown of Bakersfield, where she saw a unique opportunity to bring her corporate experience to Blue Zones Project. She is dedicated to helping local business leaders foster a culture of well-being in the workplace.

Prior to joining Blue Zones Project, Katherine worked as a Human Resources Business Partner at Jacobs Engineering Inc., where she supported over 300 People Leaders. During this time, she developed a deep passion for improving employee engagement and well-being—recognizing the significant impact of workplace culture on employees’ daily lives. Now, she is excited to partner with organizations in Bakersfield while also helping her family and friends adopt healthy lifestyle principles in the community she grew up in.

Outside of work, Katherine enjoys traveling, playing pickleball, and incorporating yoga into her weekly routine.

My Power 9

My favorite Power 9 principle is “Positive Pack.” I thrive on being surrounded by individuals who share similar hobbies, values, and interests. I believe that building strong connections with others not only fosters personal well-being but also provides the opportunity to teach others how to live longer, better.

Hannah Hurney-Espinoza joined Blue Zones Project^® – Bakersfield as the Engagement Lead, bringing with her a wealth of experience in both community engagement and the creative arts.

She holds a BA in Visual Arts with a focus on Film and Video from the University of California, San Diego. Prior to joining Blue Zones Project, Hannah served as a guide for an outdoor enrichment program and collaborated with Outsiders Nation to organize family park events. She also mentored youth at YDC and Crossroads, working on short films and art projects. Earlier in her career, she lent her talents to the film industry, serving as a production designer and art department coordinator for various films, music videos and commercials

Hannah is excited to channel her creative planning and collaborative spirit to support Blue Zones Project and the Bakersfield community in fostering longer, healthier lives. Outside of work, she enjoys reading, hiking, and spending quality time with her husband, Steven, and their son, Kuma.

My Power 9

My favorite Power 9^® is “Downshift.” I love to be on the go, but I’m my best self when I have time in nature with my family.

Kai Connolly joins Blue Zones Project Bakersfield as the Senior Marketing and Engagement Manager. She is thrilled to be joining a dynamic and passionate team and to use her skills in communications, sales and marketing to help transform the Bakersfield community to make the healthier choice the easier choice.

Kai is a dynamic manager with over a decade of experience in the radio and digital advertising industry. Born and raised in Bakersfield, Kai graduated from Bakersfield High School before pursuing higher education at San Diego State University, where she earned a BA in Communication with a minor in Sociology. After eight years away, Kai returned to her hometown to build her career and family life. She has worked for several prominent companies, including OceanTide Ads, American General Media, and most recently, SheMogul Media. In her most recent role as Sales and Marketing Manager at SheMogul Media, Kai oversaw account managers, implemented new sales strategies, and created and executed new community events. Her expertise spans packaged radio and digital sales, corporate account management and event planning.

Kai is known for her outgoing personality and her commitment to leading with understanding, empathy and kindness. She is deeply involved in the community, appreciating its strong sense of connection and working to showcase the city’s sometimes-overlooked beautiful attributes. Kai’s professional approach is influenced by her personal philosophy of “love always,” which guides her interactions both in and out of the workplace. Her ability to foster genuine connections and engage in open, honest conversations has been a key factor in her success in the sales and marketing field, and she hopes to continue to bring a positive energy to Blue Zones Project.

My Power 9

My favorite Power 9 is “Positive Pack.” I truly believe that connection and finding your people is essential to living a happy and healthy life. I could not be the person I am today without surrounding myself with a loving and supportive pack of my own.

My Power 9

My favorite Power 9^® is “Loved Ones First.” I believe that spending time with family Is so valuable. It’s important to put the phone down, get together, and create some fun, meaningful memories. Putting, “Loved Ones First” Is what keeps our family healthy and connected

Carrissa Runyan joined Blue Zones Project^® – Bakersfield as the Volunteer Program & Events Specialist. She aims to inspire individuals to become active in the community.

Carrissa has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Kinesiology with an emphasis in exercise science, as well as an associate degree in psychology. Having worked closely with individuals to improve their quality of life, she strives to do the same work in the community by uplifting and motivating those she meets.

Before her journey with Blue Zones Project, she was a personal trainer and an assistant general manager with In-Shape Health Clubs LLC. Her day included working with team members and clients to promote fitness and well-being, live healthier lives, and enjoy the process.

Carrissa is engaged and they together have a daughter named Avianna. In her downtime, she enjoys reading romance novels, reading poetry and spending quality time with her family.

My Power 9

My favorite Power 9^® is “Loved Ones First.” I find that the business of life can sometimes interrupt quality time with loved ones. Therefore, I strive to create time with those I love.

Floricel Mondragón Arzate joined Blue Zones Project^® – Bakersfield as the team’s Organization Coordinator. She approaches all aspects of her job with a positive, hard-working mindset, and is excited to be a part of the health and wellness transformation of the community.

Prior to joining Blue Zones Project, Floricel began her 15-year career with Kern County. She served in the fiscal team for the Public Works Department specializing in purchasing, accounts payable, internal audits, and other related functions. Most recently, Floricel was with the Kern County Department of Child Support Services as an Administrative Coordinator where she supported various teams including fiscal, payroll, and human resources.

Floricel is inspired daily by her partner and their family. Together they have five children ages 5-19. In her downtime, she enjoys spending time with her family, hiking, and reading a good book.

My Power 9

My favorite Power 9^® is “Loved Ones First.” Our strong family values ensure everyone in our family is cared for and loved by setting time aside for each other daily.