VANCOUVER, Wash. – Clark County Treasurer Alishia Topper received the Greater Vancouver Chamber’s 2026 Statesperson of the Year award at the chamber’s Business & Leadership Awards on Oct. 14. The honor highlights her long‑standing commitment to public service, collaborative leadership, and expanding opportunity for residents throughout Clark County.
Award ceremony and criteria
The awards, presented by Riverview Bank at The Heathman Lodge, recognize individuals and organizations whose leadership strengthens Southwest Washington’s economy and communities. The Statesperson of the Year award specifically honors an elected official who balances the interests of the business community with the broader responsibilities of the constituents they serve.
Career highlights
Topper’s public‑service record spans local government, public finance, and affordable housing. She served two terms on Vancouver City Council before being elected Clark County Treasurer in 2018. From 2017 through 2025 she was appointed to the Washington State Housing Finance Commission, where she chaired the Audit Committee and represented Washington at the National Conference of State Housing Boards.
Affordable‑homeownership initiatives
One of Topper’s most significant achievements was helping launch the county’s first homebuyer down‑payment assistance program. At her request, Clark County Council approved a partnership with the Washington State Housing Finance Commission in 2023, building on a $2 million county investment approved in 2022. The program is designed to help moderate‑ and low‑income households overcome a major barrier to homeownership.
“Working with County Council and the Washington State Housing Finance Commission, elected officials across political differences came together around one shared goal: helping more families achieve the dream of homeownership,” Topper said. “Expanding affordable housing opportunities is one of the accomplishments I’m most proud of because it demonstrates what we can achieve when we focus on shared priorities and work together to meet the needs of our community.”
Treasurer duties and financial stewardship
Since taking office in 2019, Topper has emphasized improving operational processes, strengthening transparency, delivering efficient treasury services, and providing residents with convenient tax‑payment options. She holds the Certified Public Funds Investment Manager and Certified Government Finance Officer credentials, and earned a Master of Public Administration from Portland State University.
Beyond her elected and appointed roles, Topper contributes to regional financial leadership through service with the Washington State Association of County Treasurers, Columbia Credit Union, and the Vancouver Housing Authority.
Community impact
The award underscores Topper’s dedication to responsible financial management and partnerships that address Clark County’s long‑term needs. Her work exemplifies how local officials can unite across political lines to advance practical solutions for families, reinforcing the county’s commitment to fiscal responsibility and community‑focused growth.
For more information about the Clark County Treasurer’s Office and its services, visit clark.wa.gov/treasurer. Details on the Greater Vancouver Chamber’s 2026 Business & Leadership Awards can be found on the chamber’s website.
Original reporting: Clark County Today (Vancouver WA) — read the source article.
