Announcing Our New Executive Director: Kelsey Marie Knutson
We’re excited to share that Kelsey Marie Knutson has been named the new Executive Director of CougsFirst!
Kelsey is a proud WSU alumna with a degree in Business Entrepreneurship. Her CougsFirst! journey began more than a decade ago while leading WSU’s Innovation Assessment Center, where she first discovered and connected with the organization that celebrates and supports Cougs in business.
Since then, Kelsey has built an impressive career as the owner of Kelsey Marie Coaching, where she helps business owners streamline operations and build strong teams. She also owns a coworking and event space, co-leads a women’s business community alongside two fellow Cougs, and serves as MC and business consultant for PNW LIVE, a 350+ attendee conference for women entrepreneurs in Tacoma.
Kelsey’s connection to CougsFirst! runs deep. Over the years, she’s served as a podcast host, panel speaker, retreat facilitator, and tradeshow MC—and now steps into a leadership role that brings all of that experience together.
“This community has grown from a passionate idea into a respected nonprofit with multiple ways to support Cougs in business,” Kelsey shared. “That evolution didn’t happen by chance. It has been built with intention by an incredible board, committed members, past leadership, and generous volunteers. As Executive Director, my goal is to honor that legacy while building toward the future.”
In her new role, Kelsey will focus on listening, collaboration, and continued growth to ensure CougsFirst! remains relevant, strategic, and aligned with the needs of the Cougar business community.
You can meet Kelsey in person at the CougsFirst! Spokane Show on Friday, November 7th where she will be there connecting with Cougs and sharing what’s next for the organization.
Kelsey adds, “We’ve got important work ahead, and we’ll go further, faster, together. I’m honored to lead this next chapter of CougsFirst!, and I can’t wait to get started.”
📩 You can reach Kelsey anytime at kelsey@cougsfirst.org.
Go Cougs!
—The CougsFirst! Team