Jessica Griffin Conner

Bio

Jessica Griffin Conner serves dual roles for CGCC as the Director of Outreach & Student Communications and the Career Connected Learning Systems Navigator.

As Director of Outreach & Student Communications, Jessica leads efforts to engage prospective and current students through strategic communications and outreach initiatives. She develops and manages targeted communication plans across social media, email, print, and events, using her expertise as a graphic designer to create visually compelling, accessible materials. Her work focuses on increasing enrollment, enhancing student engagement, and ensuring students have the resources they need to succeed at CGCC.

As the Career Connected Learning State Navigator, Jessica collaborates with K-12 partners, industry leaders, and educational organizations to build equitable and sustainable Career Connected Learning (CCL) systems. Her work centers on helping students explore their futures and creating clear pathways that connect classroom learning with meaningful careers.

Jessica brings a rich background in marketing, outreach, student engagement, and design, having supported various educational initiatives in higher education. With a strong commitment to advancing educational equity, she uses her skills in communication, creativity, and community-building to drive inclusive prosperity and create opportunities for learners from diverse backgrounds.

She holds a degree in History from Eastern Oregon University and has extensive experience in public sector work, including roles in marketing, student services, and community outreach.

A lifelong video gamer, (For the Alliance!), Jessica serves as the advisor for CGCC’s Gaming Club. 

Jessica grew up in Portland, Oregon. She is also an artist, musician, and author. She lives in The Dalles with her husband, two cats, a dog, and a large, sadly-neglected garden. Her first novel, Ebonstone, was published in 2023. She is currently writing its sequel and a non-fiction memoir about her experience fighting cancer during the pandemic.

Education

M.B.A. Western Governor's University, in progress, projected graduation: Class of 2026
B.S. History, Eastern Oregon University, 2016, summa cum laude
Associate of Arts Oregon Transfer, Columbia Gorge Community College, 2012
Associate of Science, Columbia Gorge Community College, 2012
Associate of General Studies, Columbia Gorge Community College, 2012

Professional Associations & Memberships

Member, Pacific Northwest Association for College Admission Counseling
Member, American Association for Women in Community Colleges
Adobe Certified Professional (InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop), Adobe  
Alumna, Phi Theta Kappa
Professional Member, The Society of Publication Designers
Ordained Minister, Universal Life Church
Member (music publisher), BMI
Member (songwriter), ASCAP

View Jessica's LinkedIn profile

Appointments and In Person

Office: 3.227
Schedule an appointment with me on Calendly

Request Communications Support

Employees may request communications support through this form.