Essma Nasher

Essma Nasher is a benefits and entitlement specialist at Central City Concern since March 2023 and has been providing part-time care as a special needs nanny since January 2020, focusing on the developmental needs of a child with autism spectrum disorder. Previously, Essma served as an AmeriCorps VISTA member from December 2021 to December 2022, engaging in diverse activities such as event coordination, grant writing, and community outreach. Other roles include notetaker for the Community Policing Focus Group in Lake Oswego, union organizer for Aft Oregon, graduate research assistant at Portland State University, and canvasser for the California Democratic Party. Essma holds a Master of Science in Sociology from Portland State University and has a strong foundation in sociology from prior studies at California State University, Stanislaus, and Modesto Junior College.