College Advancement Team

Dr. Ashley Whaley

Senior Director - BSH, Office 121

Ashley Whaley is the Senior Director of College Advancement at Hagerstown Community College and has more than 13 years of service to the College, including the past eight years in College Advancement. She earned an Associate of Arts in psychology from Hagerstown Community College (Class of 2006), followed by a Bachelor of Social Work, a Master of Social Work, and a Doctor of Social Work. Ashley is especially passionate about the Sioda Scholarship Program through the HCC Foundation. As a recipient of the scholarship during her time at HCC, she understands firsthand the difference it can make and is committed to ensuring it continues to empower future students. Outside of work, Ashley enjoys rescuing, fostering, and adopting animals in memory of her beloved Saint Bernard, Bernie.

Jessica Bowman

Director of Grants Development - BSH, Office 126

Jessica Bowman is the Director of Grants Development at Hagerstown Community College. She has over nine years of experience in non-profit work in the local community, previously working at the Humane Society of Washington County. She holds an A.A.S. in sociology from Hagerstown Community College (’19), a B.S. in sociology from Shepherd University, an M.S. in public policy and administration from McDaniel College, and is currently pursuing her Ed.D. in public health from the American College of Education. Jess is passionate about advancing community-centered programs that expand access to higher education and workforce opportunities. Jess enjoys spending time with her family and friends on the river, as well as hanging out with her dogs, Lainey and Brew, and her cat, Peter.

Cheyenne Herson

Development & Alumni Relations Manager - BSH, Office 129

Cheyenne Herson is the Development & Alumni Relations Manager at Hagerstown Community College. Her professional experience includes working as an events assistant at the Maryland Theatre and as the development manager at the Children’s Chorus of Washington. She has a B.A. in arts and entertainment industries management from Rider University. She is very passionate about the HCC Foundation’s Halo Fund that supports a variety of emergency needs for students. In her free time, she enjoys reading, volunteering, and spending time with her cat, Sushi.

Kristin Johnson

Advancement Events Coordinator - BSH, Office 137

Kristin Johnson is the Advancement Events Coordinator at Hagerstown Community College. After earning her B.A. in English from Towson University, she taught English, journalism, and publications at Urbana High School for seven years before shifting her focus to student advocacy at the collegiate level. Having witnessed firsthand how emergency assistance can be a lifeline for students in crisis, she is passionate about the Angel Fund, a resource that helps students cover living expenses and urgent financial needs. Outside of work, Kristin enjoys writing, traveling, and spending time with her chihuahua, Rio.

Karen Walker

Advancement Operations Coordinator - BSH, Office 117

Karen Walker is the Advancement Operations Coordinator at Hagerstown Community College. After starting her professional career as a teacher, she discovered a passion for non-profit work and has spent over 15 years working in non-profit organizations, primarily as an early childhood education administrator. She was particularly drawn to HCC because of the Foundation and its commitment to raising scholarship dollars for students. Outside of work, Karen enjoys reading, singing, and spending time with her husband and two teenaged children.