Jennifer Nelson

Jenn Nelson joined the Oregon School Boards Association (OSBA) in April 2022, bringing extensive experience in board and local government operations. In 2006, Jenn relocated from her hometown in Pennsylvania to Oregon and began her career as an administrative assistant with the City of Newberg, quickly advancing to deputy city recorder before accepting the role of municipal clerk in Carlton. Transitioning into education, she worked as a substitute and special education assistant, later becoming secretary to the board of directors at Newberg Public Schools. Jenn was promoted to Board Development Specialist with OSBA in July 2024.

Jenn believes board members, chief executive officers, and administrative professionals must work together with a balanced governance approach focused on students and the belief that each one can and should succeed. She also holds that administrative professionals, such as board clerks, secretaries, or assistants, play a crucial role in supporting school boards and leadership to achieve effective governance. These professionals bridge leaders and their communities, providing indirect leadership and creating neutral spaces for communication. Jenn is dedicated to empowering these administrative professionals alongside their board members and executives through professional development, best practices, and networking opportunities. She has been instrumental in working to establish a sub-association and accreditation program for school board clerks and administrative professionals within OSBA. Jenn’s commitment to education and governance drives her to advocate for the essential role of this leadership trifecta in shaping student and school success.

Jenn’s educational background includes studies at Gettysburg College and Arizona State University, where she earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in English literature. She also holds certification as a municipal clerk through the Northwest Institute of Municipal Clerks.

Outside of her professional life, Jenn enjoys reading, writing, jewelry-making, theater, singing, and mixed-media arts. She takes pride in balancing a career while happily raising three children with her husband and partner of 25 years.