

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.

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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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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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.​

Tanner Richards
Front Desk
t.richards@columbiagorge.org
509-427-8211 EX 13
Tanner is excited to join the Columbia Gorge Museum, bringing a creative eye and passion for storytelling. Tanner loves photography, discovering new artists, and exploring history through art. Outside of work, Tanner enjoys writing short stories and experiencing films on the big screen.

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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Jessica Chamberlin
Visitor Services Manager
J.chamberlin@columbiagorge.org
509-427-8211 EX 13
Jessica Chamberlin is a long-time resident of Stevenson. As the Manager of Visitor Services, she makes sure our Members and visitors are well cared for and have the best experiences while at the Museum.
She's a multi-talented person who has a deep affection for her community and the Museum. Come in and catch some of her enthusiasm!
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Store Manager Position is Open
Please send resume and letter of interest to l.palermo@columbiagorge.org
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