Portland has become a magnet for community leaders throughout the world wanting to learn more about the “Portland story.” Delegations come to Portland seeking tools for central city vitality, sustainable development, multimodal transportation solutions, resource land protection, regional governance, and effective community involvement.
First Stop Portland was developed in 2008 to answer the numerous requests for information, on-site tours, and colleague-to-colleague discussions about innovative strategies and best practices. Within the College of Urban and Public Affairs and the Institute of Portland Metropolitan Studies at PSU, First Stop Portland is well-positioned to lead this program.
We are knowledgeable about the region’s history and the factors that have affected its growth and development. Our faculty and students are connected to key business and citizen leaders who are at the forefront of sustainability and livability practices. As a university, we provide a neutral, non-partisan forum for discussion of Portland’s past, present, and future.
The First Stop Portland Advisory Council is composed of experts who are leaders in sustainability. Current members are: Dike Dame, Principal, Williams & Dame Dennis Wilde, Principal, Gerding Edlen Frank Pierson, Regional Manager, Howard S. Wright Constructors Phillip Beyl, Principal, GBD Architects Mark Clemens, Associate Principal, Group Mackenzie Don Williams, Chief Operating Officer, Schwabe Williamson Wyatt Matt Pearson, Operations Manager, Lease Crutcher Lewis Carol Zekez, Principal, Walker Macy Blake Patsy, Principal, KPFF Consulting Engineers Jeff Cogan, Multnomah County Commissioner
Staff
First Stop Portland Program Manager Nancy Hales works with visiting delegations, to design the tour experience around key program elements. Her office coordinates with faculty, presenters, government officials, and business to assure the visit is well-designed, comprehensive, and meets the desired outcomes.
She holds an undergraduate degree in Economics from the University of Vermont and a Masters in Public Administration from Lewis & Clark College. She has an extensive background in communications and non-profit management.
Ambassador Program
Graduate students and faculty at PSU participate in First Stop Portland through the Ambassador Program. Students assist in materials development, preparation and tour logistics support. Faculty deliver guest lectures and participate in debriefing and knowledge-sharing.
