The former Chief of Staff for Oregon State Senator Ginny Burdick, Chelsea joined Gard in 2021 as a Public Affairs Account Manager. She largely works with accounts that have legal or political components, and she provides community relations, stakeholder assistance and other services to a growing list of clients. Chelsea also drafts communication plans and works with communities to help foster relations between them and her clients.
A graduate of Michigan State University with a B.A. in International Relations, Chelsea also earned a Juris Doctor from Lewis & Clark Law School, after which she worked for numerous public entities, such as the CDC and the Army Corps of Engineers. When she realized the courtroom was not her calling but drafting the law and policy was, Chelsea started a career in Oregon politics. One of her proudest moments from that work was helping to get common-sense gun legislation passed in 2021.
An avid sports fan – watching, playing and hopefully coaching one day – Chelsea is a voracious reader who enjoys drinking tea, exploring the outdoors and trying, but failing, to not be obsessed with her dog, Archie.
Read Chelsea's latest post: Gard’s first work conference since COVID – sun, sand and indoor air quality
Effective listening is key. Understanding all sides challenges how you think about an issue and will make you a better advocate.
Colleagues Say
“Chelsea combines her knowledge and love of public policy with sharp analytical thinking – and just the right dose of humor. She’s a pleasure to work with.”