The Clatsop Community College Foundation has named Briana Smith as its Interim Executive Director, building on her work supporting both the Foundation and Clatsop Community College students.
Smith steps into the interim leadership role following Beth Van Elswyk’s transition from Foundation Director to a new position at Clatsop Community College as Interim Executive Director of Workforce Innovation and Partnerships.
For more than a year, Smith has served as the Foundation’s Development Director while also working as a Benefits Navigator for Clatsop Community College. Through those roles, she has gained firsthand experience with both sides of the Foundation’s mission of building community support for the College and helping students connect with resources that can make it possible for them to continue their education.
“I’m very excited for this opportunity with the Clatsop Community College Foundation,” Smith said. “After being the Development Director for over a year, I have seen the impact this Foundation has on our students and community members. I’m looking forward to helping our community grow even more.”
Smith’s experience as a Benefits Navigator has given her an additional perspective on how that support can affect students beyond the classroom. Benefits Navigators help connect students with available resources and assistance that can address barriers to completing their education. That direct connection to student needs, combined with Smith’s fundraising and development experience, will help inform her leadership of the Foundation.
Smith is also nearing completion of her master’s degree in Nonprofit Leadership from Pacific University, bringing her academic work in nonprofit management together with her experience in development, student support and community engagement.
Foundation Board of Directors Chair Jim Alegria said Smith’s experience with the organization and commitment to students make her well positioned to guide the Foundation during this transition. “I am very excited to have Briana stepping into this role,” Alegria said. “Her background as the Foundation’s Development Director, combined with her work as the College’s Benefit Navigator supporting students with urgent financial needs, has given her a strong understanding of both the Foundation’s mission and the challenges students face.”
The Clatsop Community College Foundation works to expand opportunities for students and strengthen the College’s ability to serve the region. Through charitable giving and community partnerships, the Foundation supports student scholarships and emergency needs, academic and workforce programs, equipment, facilities and other initiatives that enhance educational opportunities at CCC.
As Interim Executive Director, Smith will work with the Foundation Board, College leadership, donors and community partners to continue building resources and opportunities that support CCC students, programs and the broader community. For more information about the Clatsop Community College Foundation and opportunities to support CCC students and programs, visit the Clatsop Community College Foundation webpage.
