Clatsop Community College has named Jennifer Carlson as its new Chief Financial Officer, bringing extensive experience in public sector finance, budget oversight, and fiscal management to the college leadership team.
As she begins her new role, Jennifer says she is focused on learning from the college’s experienced staff while also bringing fresh perspective to the institution. “The accounting staff here has such a deep history and knowledge base, and I’m trying to take in all I can,” she said. “At the same time, I think it’s good to have a fresh set of eyes. Bringing together existing knowledge and a new perspective creates opportunities for strong collaboration and a positive future for the college.”
Jennifer joined Clatsop Community College after serving in several finance leadership roles across Clatsop County and the North Coast region, one of which being the Budget and Finance Manager for Clatsop County, where she helped develop and administer a countywide budget exceeding $100 million. In that role, she worked closely with department directors, monitored expenditures, coordinated audits, prepared comprehensive financial reports, and presented budget information to the Board of Commissioners and Budget Committee.
Her background also includes serving as Finance and Operations Manager for the Sunset Empire Park & Recreation District, where she oversaw a multi-fund budget, accounting systems, payroll, audits, internal controls, and financial reporting. Jennifer also brings private sector accounting and operations experience from accounting and managerial roles at River Barrel Brewing and most recently Big River Construction. She holds Bachelor of Science degrees in Accounting and Finance from Oregon State University.
A lifelong local resident, Jennifer was raised in Astoria and says her connection to the community played a major role in pursuing the position. “I grew up in this area and live in this area still, I have no plans to leave,” Jennifer said. “I’ve always known this is where I wanted to raise my family. When this position opened up, it felt like the right fit because of the college’s connection to the community and the impact it has on people’s futures.”
Jennifer said her passion for government finance and public service aligns closely with the mission of the college. “I love working in organizations that focus on helping the community and supporting people,” she said. “That caring environment and focus on helping others succeed is what drew me to Clatsop Community College.”
CCC President Jarrod Hogue said Jennifer’s experience and community roots make her an excellent addition to the college. “Jennifer brings a strong combination of financial expertise, public sector experience, and local understanding to this role,” Hogue said. “Her background in long-range forecasting, fiscal oversight, and transparent communication will be an important asset as we continue strengthening the college’s financial future and serving our community.”
Jennifer emphasized the importance of transparency, relationship building, and long-term planning in maintaining public trust. “The way I operate is by building relationships and having open conversations,” Jennifer said. “You have to communicate both the good and the bad. I think looking ahead, forecasting for the future, and being transparent with the community is what builds trust.”
Jennifer currently lives in Chinook with her family and remains deeply connected to the North Coast community in which she calls home.
