

Meet The Team

Louise A. Palermo
Executive Director
L.palermo@columbiagorge.org
509-427-8211 EX 10
Louise, or Lou, Palermo has many years of experience as a museum educator, programmer, and building community partnerships. She finds the Columbia River Gorge to be one of the most beautiful places on earth with the most interesting history. She welcomes your visit or email as she works with the community to reimagine this institution.

Lori Homer
Events Supervisor
l.homer@columbiagorge.org
509-427-8211 EX 20
Lori Homer has many years experience in research, human resources, adult education and program management. Lori and her spouse recently moved to the Columbia Gorge after more than 25 years living and working in Seattle. Lori earned a PhD in Business Management from the University of Washington. She is excited to apply her skills and passions to planning and creating stimulating and memorable Museum events in support of the community. Please contact Lori to inquire about using the Museum for your next special event.

Kim Chestnut
Front Desk
k.chestnut@columbiagorge.org
509-427-8211 EX 13
A passionate local, Kim is committed to providing value back to her community and representing the Columbia Gorge Museum in a positive light. She is ready to greet you and share the stories stored in our collections!

Madeline Ricks
Assistant Executive Director
m.ricks@columbiagorge.org
509-427-8211 EX 12
Madeline is elated to add her passion and multifaceted skill set to the Columbia Gorge Museum team! Having lived in Indiana, Montana, Washington, Italy, Scotland, and West Virginia, she developed a love for understanding and showcasing the beauty of different cultures and communities.
She received her Bachelor of Arts from Gonzaga University and holds a Master of Research in Social Anthropology from the University of St Andrews in Scotland. She hopes to leave a lasting, positive impact on the organization and the surrounding community through her work.
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Jennifer Polzel
Business Manager
J.Polzel@columbiagorge.org
509-427-8211 EX 20
Jen is as a Navy veteran, the mom of five fabulous kids, and an avid supporter of the Museum.
With a degree in accounting and over 20 years experience, Jen is a key member of the management team keeping a keen eye on our budget and facilitating our growth.
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Ash Gingery
Collections Manager
a.gingery@columbiagorge.org
509-427-8211 EX 17
With a background in research, art history, and collections management, Ash Gingery is excited to care for and research the collections at Columbia Gorge Museum. Ash believes in the power of museums to create a better world through community building and public education. When they aren't at work, Ash loves reading, spending time with their two huskies, and playing video games with their husband.
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James Cain
Facilities Manager
509-427-8211 EX 18
Jim Cain is our all-around facilities specialist who keeps the museum in top shape.
He is integral in our updates and changes, making sure our Museum is a great experience for everyone.​
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