Mat-Su Health Foundation (MSHF) is proud to announce the promotion of Jessica Clarkson to Director of R.O.C.K. Mat-Su, a collective impact model organization comprised of local stakeholders who are committed to ending child abuse and neglect across the Mat-Su Borough.

The Director of R.O.C.K. provides high-level leadership and direction and ensures alignment between the steering committee, staff, and community partners. Clarkson will provide structural support to the collective’s work toward shared goals and strengthen collaboration among partners.

“Jessica has worked for over a decade to see that our local children and families have what they need to grow up healthy and happy,” said Vandana Ingle, MSHF’s Chief Community Impact Officer. “Her steady vision for improving family contact and passion for strengthening partnerships to meet the needs of local parents and caregivers are keystones for continued impact and improved outcomes for our children.”

Previously serving as the Associate Director of R.O.C.K., Clarkson brings extensive experience in child and family services and has long been a part of the R.O.C.K. collective. Before joining the MSHF team, she worked as project coordinator for the Palmer Families with Infants and Toddlers (FIT) Court. She also worked as the coordinator for Valley Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) Program, children’s clinical therapist, and a school social worker. Alongside a dedicated R.O.C.K. workgroup, Jessica’s time at R.O.C.K. has focused on improving family contact, including approaches now widely used by child protective services to support case workers, parents, and children during family contact visits.

“I am honored to step into this role with great excitement and hope,” Clarkson said. “Healthy families and children are the foundation for furthering the wellness of Mat-Su, and I am dedicated to strengthening the systems in which we all interact. Prevention is not the work of one organization—it is the shared responsibility of an entire community. Together we can collectively ensure all children and families thrive in the Mat-Su.”

R.O.C.K. Mat-Su partners with over 70 local organizations and agencies to drive systems-level, upstream change through shared learning, social connections, and multiple initiatives focused on family health. This year marks the 10^th anniversary of the MSHF program.