Kim Krippaehne Named a Woman of Vision
We’re beyond proud to announce that our Development Director, Kim Krippaehne, has been named a 2025 DJC Woman of Vision. This award honors women who have shaped the built environment through their technical skill, leadership, mentoring, community involvement, and the creation of opportunities for future generations of women in the industry. Each year, the Daily Journal of Commerce recognizes 45 outstanding women in the architecture, engineering, construction, and related industries.
Kim's Impact at Holst
With more than 35 years of experience in Portland’s development and construction industry, Kim is a trusted leader and a respected voice in both professional and nonprofit circles. In her four years at Holst, Kim has quickly played a pivotal role in our growth as a firm. She is a strategic force, guiding the firm toward mission-aligned growth and helping nurture our next generation of leaders. She led the creation and implementation of our five-year Strategic Plan, helping us evolve our approach to growth—prioritizing partnerships and projects that align with our core values. Kim has helped us expand into new markets, form lasting client relationships, and deepen our philanthropic impact. She also serves as a mentor and advisor to staff across all levels of the firm, sharing her wisdom and empowering others to see business development as a meaningful, value-driven pursuit.
Kim's Community Involvement
Kim has long been a dedicated community advocate. For more than a decade, she has volunteered with Project Lemonade, a nonprofit that supports foster youth through clothing, mentorship, and confidence-building experiences. Kim and her daughter, Ava, began volunteering together at the Project Lemonade store in 2014 and have consistently volunteered ever since. In 2023, Kim joined the Board of Directors and currently serves as Governance Chair. In this role, she has led efforts to create a more diverse and representative board, including members with lived experience in foster care. She is also spearheading the organization’s strategic relocation as it transitions from its longtime home at Lloyd Center. Her professional knowledge in commercial development, paired with her personal passion for the mission, has positioned Project Lemonade for long-term success.
In addition to Project Lemonade, Kim has served on the Board of Girls Inc. of the Pacific Northwest and the Development Committee at the Portland Children’s Museum, always with a focus on youth, equity, and opportunity.
“There are too many examples of Kim going above and beyond in the service of others, but the most impactful examples are the quiet ones that happen every day. Kim’s empathy and wisdom have been invaluable in navigating a growing business in a complicated economic environment. Kim is our biggest cheerleader and our sage advisor who has become part of Holst’s cultural DNA.”
– Dave Otte, Principal / Owner
