Meet Our Scholars

Elizabeth is a multiracial lesbian woman who wants to make a difference in her community. She was adopted at birth in San Diego, California, and later moved with her family to Anacortes, Washington. In high school, Elizabeth was active in sports, band, and community service, earning varsity letters in volunteerism and swimming. She earned the band senior spirit award and was selected as Student Volunteer of the Year.

She continued her community service in college, participating in student government, working as a resident assistant, and serving as senate president of the Associated Students of Western Oregon University. Elizabeth lobbied at the Oregon State Legislature on issues affecting students and helped pass legislation to provide free menstrual products in Oregon schools to reduce absenteeism. She received WOU’s Klush Tum Tum (“Person with a Heart for Others”) Award, and the John Lewis Youth Leadership Award from the National Association of Secretaries of State. After completing their Bachelor’s degrees, Elizabeth and her partner moved to Portland State University. Elizabeth is currently working on her Master’s in Public Policy and serving in student government. After completing her MPP, she plans to work in government or politics and advocate for equitable policies in housing and employment.