Meet Breanna Carlson-Decker

Born in California but raised in Yakima Valley, Breanna (or Brea, as she likes to go by) graduated from Eisenhower High School in 2006, then went on to receive her Associate of Arts degree from Yakima Valley College before moving to Bellingham and transferring to Western Washington University where she earned her bachelor’s degree in Ancient History with minors in Philosophy and Anthropology.

Brea comes to us with a wealth of experience from working at the Yakima Valley College Writing Center, bringing skills in organization, writing, editing, scheduling, and multitasking. “I love to write,” says Breanna. “I’ve written a lot of poetry and songs over the years, and I am currently working on writing a novel.”

Outside of work, Brea loves to spend her free time with her husband and their animals, but a large chunk of it is spent managing their business, St. Jack’s Video in Wapato, which is one of the last video rental stores in the country. “When we do have more free time, my husband and I love building Lego sets and gaming together,” adds Brea. (Brea has some cool Lego builds in her office; check them out!)

Working alongside Brenda and Melinda, the Admin Team’s expertise and dedication support our Senior Leadership Team’s operations, streamline communication, and help ensure that their day-to-day activities run smoothly.

“The Admin Team is a small but mighty group of three,” says Melinda, Executive Administrative Assistant. “We work closely with key leadership roles to provide support and assist staff in their training and travel needs. We play a critical role in ensuring smooth daily operations and supporting overall efficiency. The team is responsible for handling administrative tasks such as managing schedules, organizing meetings, scribing for various committees, maintaining records, and coordinating communications. We also serve as a point of contact for both internal and external stakeholders.

“The team often handles office logistics, processes, and resources, ensuring that the organization runs efficiently and effectively. The Admin Team works closely with leadership to aid in strategic goals and facilitate decision-marking processes.” Melinda says, “As team players, we collaborate across departments and proactively contribute to fostering a positive and inclusive work culture by organizing small events that everyone may have participated in – chili cookoffs, Christmas decorating contests, chocolate contests, among others.”

“I am very fortunate to be a part of the Admin Team and this organization,” says Brea. “I look forward to work every day because I get to collaborate with such great people, and it already feels like a second home to me. Everyone has been so warm and welcoming and I’m excited to bring my knowledge and skillset to the table of a company that allows its employees to flourish and thrive.”

We are excited to have you join our organization, Brea! Please join us in giving her a warm welcome!