CEIC’s Community Catalyst Award: Honoring Visionary Leadership In The Central Eastside
Central Eastside Industrial Council (CEIC) is pleased to announce the recipient of its second-annual Community Catalyst Award, a recognition that honors those who embody the resilience and forward-thinking spirit of the Central Eastside, fostering a deep sense of belonging and unity throughout the District. The 2025 recipient, Chelsea Rooklyn, Brand & Impact Manager at Killian Pacific, was among other nominees including Brooke Cabatic (SPP Properties), Nicole Jensen (Hopscotch), Mike Larkin (NAI Elliot), and Chelsea Rooklyn (Killian Pacific).
Established in 2023, the Community Catalyst Award is presented annually at the Annual Member Celebration. It highlights individuals who contribute significantly to the Central Eastside through their leadership and community impact. Leaders are nominated through a public process, with submissions reviewed by a volunteer committee of at-large members and the previous year’s recipient. The 2024 recipient was Bridgid Blackburn, Co-Owner of Cargo.
Meet the 2024 Award Recipient: Chelsea Rooklyn
Chelsea Rooklin
2024 Recipient, Community Catalyst Award
CEIC proudly honors Chelsea Rooklyn, Brand & Impact Manager at Killian Pacific, for her exceptional leadership and dedication to the arts and community development. Chelsea’s work has helped transform the Central Eastside into a hub for public art, events, and collaboration.
Through her support of local artists and partnerships with organizations like the Portland Street Art Alliance, Chelsea has helped bring murals and public art projects to life, further establishing the Central Eastside as a renowned Mural District. In her role at Killian Pacific, Chelsea oversees events and activations that attract visitors to the Central Eastside, including the Portland Flea and Street Bazaar at the Electric Blocks and seasonal markets like the European Bazaar at the Goat Blocks. She also serves on the board of The Willamette Light Brigade, which organizes the Portland Winter Lights Festival and illuminates the city’s bridges. “Chelsea’s dedication exemplifies smart, purposeful leadership,” said Carolyne Holcomb, Executive Director at CEIC. “Her ability to foster collaboration and creativity has strengthened the District and will leave a lasting impact.”
Looking Ahead
Public nominations for the 2025 Community Catalyst Award will open in the Fall of 2025. We look forward to celebrating another remarkable leader at next year’s Annual Member Celebration!