Architect • Planner • Advocate
Dirce Moroni Toulan was an architect and planner who received her first degree from the University of Rosario in Argentina. At 27 she was named a Fulbright Scholar and moved to Philadelphia to attend the University of Pennsylvania. Following her move to Portland, Dirce became heavily involved at both PSU and the broader Portland community. Her commitment was vital to the growth and development of the College of Urban & Public Affairs, and she led the effort to support the College's library, now named the Dirce Moroni Toulan Library of Urban & Public Affairs, which was listed as one of the seven wonders of Portland State.
Throughout the 1970's and 1980's, Dirce led the significant fundraising efforts for the PSU Women's Association scholarship funds. She was also an active community leader over the years heading up efforts in the local Neighborhood Associations and Robert Gray's PTA, in addition to her work with Metro in the 1980's. Dirce's great love for Egyptology led her to become very involved with the American Research Center in Egypt (ARCE), where she served as Vice President of the Oregon Chapter. She had established close ties and friendships with several renowned archaeologists in Egypt and loved to regularly visit the digs.
Both Dirce and Nohad Toulan were compassionate individuals who were very supportive of numerous charities, giving both of their time and financial support. Both were strong supporters of the Interfaith Council of Greater Portland, reflecting their own interfaith marriage, and huge conviction in religious tolerance while devoutly practicing their respective religions. They both loved and were truly dedicated to Portland and Oregon and will be missed by many.