2009 Program Alumnae

Emerge Oregon just concluded training its first group of remarkable Democratic women. Click on the links below to learn more about these fabulous women who are about to "Emerge" and change the political landscape of Oregon for the better!

Saba Ahmed

Born on January 11, 1985 in Rawalpindi, Pakistan, Saba is a patent analyst for Intel, who dreams of being "the first Pakistani-American-Asian Muslim woman patent attorney in the United States Congress."

Deborah Barnes

Deborah Barnes is a former broadcast news reporter who gave up a successful career in broadcasting in Oregon now teaches high school students the art of broadcasting and digital media in the North Clackamas School District.

Katy Brooks

A Portland native working to keep the region environmentally and economically sustainable, Katy is interested in serving as a Metro councilor, combining her passion for the environment, transportation and service to the community.

Linda Castillo

I have a vision of a future that engages women, families, and communities of color on a deeper level - that includes their voices and experience at the decision-making table. I believe Emerge will help set the foundation.

Shemia Fagan

I cannot count how many times I have observed our elected leaders and thought "I care about these issues, I could do that job." About a year ago I challenged myself with, "prove it." Thanks Emerge Oregon, and as they say, "Giddy-up!"

Dana Fischer

As a first step in integrating herself into public service, Dana hopes to serve on a state board or commission charged with strengthening the higher education system or improving the effectiveness of workforce investment.

Katherine Heekin

Now that a woman has put 18 million cracks into the highest glass ceiling in our country, the time has come for Oregon to shatter some of its glass ceilings, such as the offices of Attorney General and Multnomah County District Attorney.

Val Hoyle

I became politically active in Oregon because I believed that our schools should live up to that reputation. I am currently the Legislative Aide for Sen. Floyd Prozanski and plan to use my experience in politics to help my community reach its potential.

Elizabeth Kennedy-Wong

And Emerge fills a role for women, one that has historically been there for men, who are more likely to be asked to run and have a built-in network from which to launch their political careers. I'm excited to be a part of this first class.

Ann Lininger

In 2009, she won appointment to the Clackamas County Board of Commissioners, where she provides a moderate, balanced approach to leadership. Before joining the County, Lininger served as a Director at the Meyer Memorial Trust.

Kedma Ough

Equally, I have been searching for months for an organization that will provide the right resources and support to challenge myself to run for office. Emerge Oregon is that organization! Bringing innovation back to Oregon, and empowering women.

Sunny Petit

I'm honored to be part of Emerge Oregon's first class. I am eager to develop the skills and relationships necessary to for me to be a stronger advocate on issues important to all Oregonians, like better health care access for the uninsured.

Dr Huma Pierce

After honing her leadership skills during her naval career, Pierce returned to her interest in family health and enrolled in Chiropractic College. She is now the owner of several flourishing woman-owned businesses in Portland.

Miranda Plummer

I'm thrilled to participate in this program! I'm looking forward to really digging in and moving forward on important issues such as health care, alternative energy resources, and social justice issues, at the state and local level.

Laura Rost

I am pleased to have the opportunity to participate in Emerge Oregon. I have known for years I would be politically active. I feel it is my duty to serve society and with the assistance of Emerge I know I can be a more effective leader in Oregon.

Maria Caballero Rubio

Maria Caballero Rubio has lived in Oregon since 1969. A mediator and a marathoner, she wants to serve because she believes the time is right for leadership that will listen and reflect the public will, is systems oriented, and plans with a global perspective.

Sandy N. Webb

Truly motivated by the civil servants who worked hard and cared about the issues that affected the daily lives of the residents there, Sandy believes inclusion is key to greater efficiency and a community's ability to reach goals.

Rose Wilde

Rose Wilde was born in Cottage Grove, Oregon, and grew up in the even smaller town of Horton, Oregon. Her key political goals include securing stable funding for county and state service through increased constituent outreach and involvement.

Jennifer Williamson

Emerge Oregon will help me refine my political skills and gain a better understanding of the mechanics of running for elected office and how to be a successful candidate and effective leader.

Joelle Davis

Throughout her day, whether working with AEE, her business and as city councilor, Joelle feels privileged to put policy into practice on these and other important issues of the day.

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2009 Program Alumnae