2010

A social worker turned community activist, Andrea Paluso is an advocate for systemic changes that will create a more equitable and sustainable future for all Oregon's families. As the co-founder of Family Forward Oregon, a nonprofit organization working to build a family-friendly economy, Andrea has engaged families to speak out on issues as varied as paid family leave, child care quality and affordability, health care reform, outdated employment policies, and economic inequities for mothers.

Whether serving as an AmeriCorps volunteer, public school educator, board member, mentor or community advocate, Roberta Phillip's commitment to public service has been clear and at the forefront. Recognized as a distinguished graduate by the faculty at Lewis & Clark Law School, Roberta has received several awards and scholarships for contributions to her community while a student.

Samaura Stone grew up listening to her mother tell haunting stories about the Civil Rights Movement. Sparking her curiosity about justice and equality early on, Samaura realized that it would take many more strong, impassioned leaders to continue the fight for these critical rights.

The first college graduate in her family, Consuelo Saragoza knows firsthand the advantages that only education can provide. In her early professional career as a teacher and advocate for families and children, Consuelo cemented her ongoing commitment to see that other young people are afforded the same educational opportunities she experienced. Currently a public health professional, Consuelo recognizes that the connection between health and education is inseparable. Dedicated to equity, inclusion, and social justice in both personal and professional life, Emerge will allow her to continue her pursuit of life long learning and finding opportunities to make a difference for children and families in our community.

A mother of four, Shalonda Menefee was born and raised in Northeast Portland; she both understands and actively participates to empower and support her community. Shalonda's passion extends far beyond her various mentoring and volunteer commitments throughout the city; it's her way of life. Currently a member of both the Multnomah County Citizen Involvement Committee and Multnomah County Human Services Citizen Budget Advisory Board, Shalonda's involvement includes work with several organizations that span across education, youth, community and economic development work. She is the developer and founder of SISTAS Enterprise and BACK2BASICS.

Growing up in the Tigard area, Sheri Moore recalls warm summer days picking strawberries or working in her Mom's small cafe. Other job and life experiences carried her through both her Bachelor's and Master's degrees from the University of Oregon, before settling into a 25-year career as an elementary school teacher. Newly "retired", Sheri serves as both Springfield Planning Commissioner and Lane County Master Gardener, hosts international college students, and teaches half-time. Weekends find her actively involved with her church and other volunteer endeavors.

An Emergency Medicine physician in Portland, Sharon Meieran works with individuals from all walks of life. On a daily basis, Sharon sees the safety net for our most vulnerable population stretched to the breaking point, and knows we must have a better, truly inclusive and accessible health-care system for all Oregonians. Her two young children confirm her belief in the need for a strong public educational system in order for all children to succeed and lead productive and fulfilling lives.

Raised in Montana, Ryan Manion now makes her home in Portland. Ryan has been politically active and committed to progressive politics and social justice since she was very young because of her family's dedication to social justice and peace. A political organizer and campaign manager for 15 years, Ryan most recently worked as a campaign manager for M+R Strategic Services, and the Endangered Species Coalition, campaigning to protect the Endangered Species Act and advocating for the Northwest's wildlife and wild places.

As the Head of Community Outreach for the Center for Women, Politics & Policy, Nova Newcomer loves working every day to help women develop their leadership potential. In 2 short years she has expanded its community of support through targeted fundraising, marketing and development of new partnerships. Nova is also the Community Manager at PECI, a non-profit focused on delivering energy efficient solutions as part of the new energy economy.

Kathleen Feehan is dedicated to restoring and protecting the rivers and lands that distinguish our beautiful state and support all Oregonians including tribal people and culture. Kathleen knows that a balanced and thriving future for our state depends on healthy Oregon waters, land and communities. Working as a Senior Policy Analyst for the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, Kathleen has focused on implementation of the Clean Water Act to guide watershed restoration and improve standards for protecting human health.