Howard K Hill, a husband, father, and award-winning prominent businessman, hails from Windsor, Connecticut. He is widely known for his ownership and operation of the Howard K Hill Funeral Services Empire, spanning three locations in New Haven, Bloomfield, and Hartford, Connecticut, marking its 20th year in business in July 2024.
Howard attended Southern CT State University before becoming a licensed funeral director and embalmer in CT and NY, earning numerous top designations. He holds the distinction of being the first African American to serve two terms as President of the Connecticut Funeral Directors Association. Howard assumed the role of Ex Officio, Chair of the Greater New Haven Chamber of Commerce, following three years as the first Black chair in the chamber's 200-plus-year history, with the longest tenure, concluding in spring 2024.
Beyond the funeral services industry, Howard's business endeavors focus on addressing economic viability, inclusive growth, and parity across all levels within businesses and related organizations. He is passionate about identifying, creating, sharing, and leveling business opportunities in underserved communities, while holistically addressing community disparities for ultimate business success.
As a visionary leader, Howard founded the Black Business Alliance of Connecticut (BBA) to promote Black business growth and spearheaded the Hartford Renaissance District (HRD) project in collaboration with the Barbour Street Neighborhood Community, aimed at revitalizing Hartford's North End. His philanthropic efforts extend to establishing the Prosperity Foundation (TPF), a community foundation supporting health, education, and economic development with a focus on Black communities.
Howard is a trusted keeper of culture and a dedicated convener in his communities. He is committed to his mission of building, healing, educating, and uplifting healthy Black communities where individuals can thrive, not just survive. For Howard K Hill, failure is simply not an option.
📽️ Introducing the Howard K. Hill Multimedia Mini-Series…📽️
Part 1: Who is Howard K Hill
Howard K. Hill advocates for embracing discomfort as a catalyst for understanding the work needed to transform communities and the businesses within them. He emphasizes the importance of leveling the playing field to ensure equity for all and recognizes inclusive growth as vital for success. Addressing various forms of trauma, whether racial, financial, familial, or historical, requires a reckoning, and Howard is unapologetically positioned as the facilitator of these uncomfortable conversations.
His mantra, "Failure is NOT An Option," underscores his unwavering commitment to driving change and creating a more just and equitable society. Take a moment to delve deeper into the essence of Howard K. Hill, recognizing his determination to challenge the status quo and foster meaningful dialogue around issues that matter.
Part 2: Who is Howard K Hill - Community
Howard K. Hill's visionary leadership is igniting a transformative movement, commencing with the Hartford Renaissance District (HRD) in collaboration with the Barbour Street Neighborhood Community. Teaming up with his philanthropic partner, The Prosperity Foundation (TPS), alongside various organizations, Howard is spearheading the revitalization of underserved communities, fostering environments where residents can truly flourish.
His tenure as the first black and longest-serving chair at the Greater New Haven Chamber of Commerce (GNHCC) exemplifies his commitment to collective action with businesses. By prioritizing inclusive growth, Howard is not only fostering economic vitality but also nurturing relationships across all communities. His efforts are leveling the playing field, ensuring that businesses, particularly those in underserved areas, thrive. Ultimately, Howard's vision is driving success for businesses of all kinds, fostering a more equitable and prosperous economic landscape.
Part 3: Who is Howard K Hill - Funeral Service Business
As a Black funeral director, it is fundamental that HKH Funeral Services stands as a beacon of truth, preserving our culture and chronicling history within the communities we serve. Understanding one's family lineage, regardless of nationality, is pivotal in crafting a family legacy, starting with one's name. It's about not only recognizing the past but also sharing the narrative of the legacy you and your family have built or aspire to create.Pre-planning your Final Celebration of Life serves as a crucial step in commemorating your impact and influence. It allows for the memorialization of your accomplishments and ensures that future generations acknowledge your presence during your time on this earth. It's about leaving behind a testament to your existence and the mark you've made, ensuring that your story endures for generations to come.