Chelsea works as the Executive Assistant to Rob Garagiola and second key Principals with scheduling, client in-take, and other related administrative tasks. Chelsea also assists the Controller with invoicing, accounts receivable for all businesses, and employee reimbursement processing.
Chelsea received her B.A. in Modern Language and Community Service Studies from DePaul University in Chicago, IL and has spent most of her career in the non-profit sector, bringing eight years of administrative support experience to the Compass Team.
Originally from the British Virgin Islands, Chelsea enjoys visiting family on both sides of the Atlantic and the Caribbean with her husband and young son.
As a Staff Assistant for Compass Advocacy, Katherine works closely with the both the Government Relations and Management teams by scheduling meetings and providing necessary office support. Katherine interfaces with clients during visits to the Annapolis office as well as during client intake. Day to day, Katherine works to ensure the office runs smoothly by answering phones and supplementing office logistics and procurement as necessary.
As a part of our public relations team, Katherine mainly produces social media content for clients. This requires her to learn the inner workings of our client’s operations and effectively communicate that to specific audiences, as well as create consistent branding. She also manages some of the administrative tasks for the team including prepping meeting materials and monitoring team goals.
Katherine received her B.A. in Political Science and Public Policy from St. Mary’s College of Maryland, where she also had the opportunity to intern for Maryland State Delegate Dana Jones. Outside of her work on the Compass team, Katherine spends much of her life on the water. As an Annapolis native, she grew up competitively sailing and coaching sailing, and continues to do so on weekends.
Kirsten oversees all operational aspects of Compass Advocacy. She also manages the firm’s human resources needs, including compensation, benefit administration, and employee policies. Kirsten is also a member of the Compass finance team and conducts company-wide financial audits. In addition, she coordinates firm compliance, insurance, and risk management matters.
Previously, Kirsten was a File Clerk/Policy Analyst Support to the Maryland House Ways & Means Committee and has played key administrative roles in healthcare companies including Product Manager in Product Development & Management for a Behavioral Health and Wellness corporation, and Patient Care Coordinator for an Orthopedic surgical facility.
Additional Background
Kirsten continues to pursue her interest in medicine through research and attending lectures. She previously volunteered at the Johns Hopkins Pediatric Oncology unit, and her interest in cancer research especially continues. In her spare time, she enjoys outdoor adventuring and exploring nature, traveling, and cooking.
As Vice President of Administration, Ellen leads efforts on many different fronts in Compass’s offices. She directs all maintenance and upkeep in our two offices, including furnishing, engaging contractors, and acquiring supplies. Ellen also works closely with our IT contractors and employees concerning all technology needs. In addition, she works with the Vice President of Operations on human resource matters, with respect to employee sourcing, conducting interviews, hiring, and on-boarding. She directs the marketing committee for Compass, including website maintenance and brand development, event planning, composing newsletters, and advertising. Ellen also oversees the Staff Assistant position in our Annapolis office.
In addition to Ellen’s management roles, she Chairs the firm’s Sustainability Committee where she facilitates energy-saving practices, recycling measures, and sustainable systems for Compass as well as coordinating volunteer efforts in the community.
Prior to joining Compass in early 2020, she spent 5 years working seasonally in environmental education and adventure tourism. She has held positions such as ski rental tech, whitewater rafting logistics in Colorado, and a visitor services internship with the Fish & Wildlife Service in Michigan. She worked in the field as an educator on the Chesapeake Bay, as well as a group leader in Denali National Park where she led learning vacations across Alaska.
Originally from Harford County, Maryland, Ellen enjoys hiking and skiing with her husband, dancing the tango, and spending time outside.
