I find deep fulfillment in being at the table where progressive, forward-moving conversations happen in Columbia County.

Chrissy Marquardt brings a dynamic blend of entrepreneurial spirit, community connection, and strategic expertise to her role as Director of Operations & Engagement at the Columbia Economic Team. Originally from Jamaica, Chrissy came to Oregon on an academic scholarship to the University of Portland, where she earned dual degrees in Finance and Spanish. She’s called Columbia County home since 2010, when she and her husband moved to Scappoose to raise their family. The ultimate book title for Chrissy’s life: Island Girl From Jamaica, Living on A Farm in Rural Oregon – or Island Girl On A Farm for short. 

With over a decade of experience spanning nonprofit management, digital marketing, leadership coaching, and small business development, Chrissy is passionate about creating pathways for economic growth that serve everyone in the community. As an ICF Certified Coach and Equity-Centered Leader, she brings a unique perspective to her work, supporting local businesses through CET’s SBRC programming, the Keep It Local initiatives, and GRO’s Greater leadership development. When she’s not strategizing communications or managing operations, you’ll find Chrissy running local trails, crafting skincare items and candles, cheering on her older boys at local youth sports events, or chasing her youngest son around the farm. She finds deep fulfillment in being “at the table where progressive, forward-moving conversations happen” and considers it an honor to help uplift Columbia County’s local economy and business owners through the resources, access, and advocacy that CET provides

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