Leadership Eugene Springfield 2020-21 Cohort

Siobhan Cancél

Siobhan Cancél has worked in hospitality for over 18 years.  She started her career path at the Residence Inn in Eugene, OR as a kitchen attendant at age 16.  There she fell in love with hospitality and decided to go to Southern Oregon University, the only college in Oregon offering hospitality as a major at the time.  There she earned her BS Degree in Hospitality and Biochemistry.  Over the years she has been on the opening teams of three hotels, two here in Oregon and she worked every job under the hospitality umbrella on her way up to general manager, then decided to explore sales.  Sales is where Siobhan was able to flourish.  She genuinely enjoyed going out and meeting new people to see how she could help satisfy their hospitality needs.  With the current COVID pandemic and Siobhan’s underlying health conditions she realizes that returning to hospitality will not be possible.  Siobhan has recently incorporated her business focused on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Consulting for corporations and nonprofits. 

Siobhan is very active in volunteering with local organizations such as STAND for Children, NAACP, United Way Emerging Leaders, Eugene Chamber Equity, Inclusion and Diversity committee, Relief Nursery Leadership board, and working with local individual community leaders to achieve equitable change for marginalized groups. 

Siobhan enjoys cooking, putting puzzles together and coloring in her downtime.

 Jenny Freeman
Bank of the Pacific

 As a native Oregonian, I am a strong advocate for the community and appreciate the business progress over the years.  I grew up in Lane County and graduated from Pacific Coast Banking School (University of Washington) after attending college locally in Eugene.  Professionally I collaborate with companies providing financial solutions that help them meet their day-to-day challenges.   I am passionate about developing a trusted professional relationship with my clients.  Personally, I enjoy fishing and any time on the water, sunny days in any one of our classic convertibles and a solid work/life balance.

Heather Gabbert
Columbia Bank

As a Relationship Banking Officer, Heather Gabbert is a true advocate for her clients and businesses throughout the Greater Eugene and Springfield area. This is her 12^th year at Columbia Bank covering a myriad of experience in retail and commercial banking. Heather is a go-to resource for everyone she works with helping them navigate to the best products and strategies for their individual needs. In addition to her work at Columbia Bank, Heather has a passion for the community, specifically helping those experiencing food insecurity and keeping children safe. You can always count on Heather to be out volunteering in her free time, advocating for the most vulnerable in our community.

 Jeanette Graff
McKenzie-Willamette Medical Center

Jeanette Graff is the Assistant Chief Financial Officer at McKenzie-Willamette Medical Center, prior to her joining the Executive Team, she was most recently the Director of Finance and Revenue Cycle for Planned Parenthood of Southwestern Oregon; and prior to that position she was a Senior Accountant for Oregon Medical Group.   Jeanette brings experience in healthcare revenue cycle, accounting functions, budget preparation and financial strategy. She received her Bachelor of Science Degree in Accounting & International Studies from the University of Oregon which included studies abroad in Spain.

Away from the office, Jeanette has an adventurous soul and enjoys traveling the world in search of cultural experiences and eclectic food & drink.  Most who know her would describe her as a foodie.  When she’s not on a grand adventure she dedicates herself to her family and friends.  She enjoys sharing her profound love of food & cooking and can frequently be found in kitchen preparing sumptuous multicourse meals to share with anyone willing to try something new.  Hailing from the Pacific Northwest, she is an avid runner, hiker, biker and outdoor enthusiast.

Antonio Huerta
University of Oregon

Antonio Huerta was born and raised in Jalisco, Mexico. He is an Admissions Counselor at the University of Oregon where he enjoys working with students and parents in the preparation process to pursue higher education. Antonio enjoys the outdoors such as running, hiking, biking, and horseback riding. He is a Charro or Mexican Horseman and enjoys sharing about the Charro tradition. He volunteers his time at the annual Noche Cultural, Hispanic Heritage, and other community events, which provide learning opportunities about the richness of the Latino arts and cultures. 

Adam Jenkins
Low Voltage NW

Adam Jenkins is the President of Low Voltage NW, a company providing low voltage (Fire Alarm, Data Communications, Security) design, installation and maintenance in the commercial sector. 

Adam has been in the electrical industry for over 16 years. He takes pride in creating a culture for his team members to thrive and be successful in their work. Adam has called the Eugene/Springfield community home for the past 20 years after attending the University of Oregon for school and as part of the historic Track and Field team. He enjoys spending time with all the community has to offer with his wife, son and daughter.  

Troy Jones
Banner Bank

My name is Troy Jones, and I’m the Client Services Manager 2 for the Springfield Branch of Banner Bank.  I’ve been in the financial industry for the past 23 years in many different capacities.  I enjoy serving the valued clients of my community by helping them succeed in reaching their financial goals. When I’m not serving clients, I like to spend time with my family and friends.

Candice King
Homes for Good

Candice King, her partner, and 3(of 4) children moved to Eugene (from Berea, KY) in June 2016. She holds a Bachelor’s of Arts in Economics from Berea College. She began working for Homes For Good Housing Agency in July 2018 and has served in her role as Housing Liaison since June 2019. Candice has always been an active and dedicated member of her community, serving as a volunteer and board member for multiple local and national organizations. Most recently, she ran for the City Council seat for Ward 1 as part of the Solidarity Platform of candidates for local office.  

Karyn Knecht
Eugene Science Center

 Karyn Knecht joined the Eugene-Springfield community in 2017 as the Education Director at Eugene Science Center. Originally from Tennessee, Karyn has worked in small, science and nature based educational non-profits for 10 years. She is passionate about engaging children and their families in hands-on science and outdoor exploration, and she believes imbuing an understanding and trust for scientific thinking is critical for future generations. In her spare time, Karyn enjoys exploring local parks with her dog, creating textile art, and volunteering at Greenhill Humane Society.

Trevor Lewis
Umpqua Bank

I hold a BBA in Finance and an MBA in Entrepreneurial Studies both from the Anderson School of Management at the University of New Mexico.  I have managed commercial banking teams and have over 14 years of banking experience helping new startups to large mid-market companies across industries and sectors with their financial goals.  I am very happy to work for Umpqua Bank as a Vice President and Senior Client Solutions Manager in Lane County.  I am a proud husband and father to three elementary school aged children, and we all enjoy hiking, camping, kayaking and rafting in the McKenzie River Valley.

Adam Loris
McKenzie-Willamette Medical Center

Graduated from the University of Minnesota with and Masters of Healthcare Administration in 2013, and has been working in hospital leadership ever since. While not native Oregonians, he has lived here for 4 years with his wife and 4 children. Prior to moving to Oregon, Adam and his wife were actively engaged with the homeless shelter for teen girls and the food bank. He and his family enjoy being in nature, and going to Oregon sporting events. Adam’s hobbies also include golfing, reading and most recently, pickleball.

As an Account Manager with PacificSource Health Plans, Solange’ works with Large Employer clients in the Willamette Valley, and is the Lead Sales Team member for the Student Health Insurance line of business companywide. Solange’s has lived in the world of health insurance for 17 years. 

A true Duck; Solange’ is from Springfield and graduated from the University of Oregon Lundquist College of Business. She starts nearly every morning at OrangeTheory and afternoon breaks playing with her dogs. In free time Solange’ and her husband regularly work on their property in the country. 

Malia Martin
Columbia Bank

Malia Martin is a Marketing Specialist for Columbia Bank. Before COVID-19, she used to be the Events Coordinator for the Greater Eugene Market which includes Eugene, Springfield, and Junction City. Malia obtained her degree in Dance from Western Oregon University, in Monmouth, Ore. She is huge supporter of the Performing Arts, and shopping & dining at locally-owned small businesses. She lives in Springfield with her husband and two daughters. She loves fashion, gardening, the Simpsons, and the Oregon Coast.

Mark Nystrom
Lane County

Mark Nystrom is the Climate Strategist for Lane County and is responsible for developing the County’s first ever Climate Action Plan. Before working with Lane County he worked for the City of Eugene, the Association of Oregon Counties, and was a high school science teacher. Mark has lived in Eugene for 15 years and loves to explore the amazing diversity of nature that Oregon has to offer. Mark is married, has a son who just started college, and has a high strung cattle dog.

 Jacob Painter
Summit Bank

Ever since I was a young child I wanted to find a ways to have a positive impact on others so naturally I chose to become a commercial banker. Since 2016, I’ve been in commercial lending and have loved mostly every day of it. Prior to commercial banking, I earned a Business Administration with a focus in Finance from the University of Oregon and prior to that I served five years in the United States Marine Corps. I currently volunteer with the Springfield Chamber of Commerce’s Education committee and I also volunteer my time with a local nonprofit called Reality Kitchen who help provide employment pathways for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Dhruti Patel
Alko Hotels

Dhruti Patel is the current VP of Revenue and Sales for Alko Hotels in Eugene, Oregon. She obtained most of her proficiency and experience through being a second generation hotelier and working in the local hotels under various brands including IHG, Choice Hotels and Marriott as well as Independent hotels.  Dhruti graduated from Oregon State University (concentration in Management and Policy). Some of her finished certifications are in Hotel Industry Analytics (CHIA), Hotel Owner/Operator (CHO) and several others from Cornell University including a Masters Certificate in Revenue Management and Hotel Management.

Alyssa Powell
Oregon Community Credit Union

 “What can I learn? How can I help?” 

Alyssa Powell is a collaborator and connector. Being a toddler mom, she’s fueled by cold brew coffee, dance parties, and intentional moments. As the Content Marketing Strategist for Oregon Community Credit Union, she leads with empathy to support members, communities, and the Credit Union difference. Passionate about connecting with others and volunteering — she’s a member of the Relief Nursery Leadership Board and Eugene Young Professionals network. You’ll catch her investing time in reading and spending time with family and friends. 

Jessica Price
University of Oregon

Jessica Price is Associate General Counsel for the University of Oregon. Her work involves international employment, ethics, and free speech. She attended Yale College and Harvard Law School, and started her legal career with a clerkship in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Louisiana and then for the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals She has been recognized by Poder Magazine’s Top 20 Latinos Under 40, California Lawyer’s Attorney of the Year, and the 2019 UO Senate Shared Governance, Transparency, and Trust Award. She is President-Elect of the Eugene Metropolitan Rotary Club and serves on several boards.

Sarah Puls
Eugene Airport

Sarah Puls began her career as an Environmental consultant for 7 years for a local engineering and geology firm in Eugene. She is a Registered Environmental Health Specialist (R.E.H.S) in the State of Oregon. Sarah comes to the airport from Lane County where she worked as an Environmental Health Specialist for Lane County for the past 7 years as the administrator for the Safe Drinking Water Program. Sarah is a graduate of California Polytechnic State University with a bachelor’s degree in Agriculture Systems Management with a concentration in environmental management. Sarah has furthered her education obtaining a Master of Science in Occupational Safety and Health with a concentration in environmental management through Columbia Southern University. Sarah brings with her knowledge and experience of all aspects of environmental health and environmental protection. Sarah is the current president of the Oregon Environmental Health Association and a member of the National Environmental Health Association.

Jay Runte
Northwest Youth Corps

Jay Runte is the Conservation Internship Director at Northwest Youth Corps placing 140 paraprofessional interns per year with federal land management agencies throughout the Pacific-West Region. Jay’s program is a cooperative effort designed to address community, environmental, and resource management projects while providing hands on training and experience to those interested in pursuing employment with land management agencies. Jay has served with Northwest Youth Corps for over 17 years, focusing on youth development, community engagement, volunteerism, diversity initiatives, and natural resources management. Originally from New York, Jay attended Excelsior College earning a B.S. in Liberal Arts and M.N. in Recreation and Leisure Studies. Jay enjoys fly fishing, rafting, and skiing with his wife Stefanie and son Alex. 

Alli Schwartz
Homes for Good

Alli Schwartz is a Property Management Supervisor for Homes for Good Housing Agency, Lane County’s Public Housing Agency. She has a Master of Education from the University of Oregon in Counseling, Family, and Human Services with a specialization in Prevention Science. Professionally, Alli is passionate about interweaving immediate supportive services with prevention services to help families and individuals become self-sufficient. Alli is an avid reader who spent over half of her life in the Eugene-Springfield area, where she currently resides with her husband, two children, and too many pets. 

Alexis Sliwinski
PIVOT Architecture

I moved to Eugene just a little over two years ago from Columbus, Ohio, where I had spent the past 15 years going to school, becoming an architect, and building a family. My passions in life include my kids, paddle boarding, buildings, communities, building communities, and listening to folks who have troubles, and then working to find actionable solutions to those issues. 

Audrey Stone
Leahy Cox LLP

Audrey is originally from Salt Lake City, Utah. There she completed her undergraduate degree in psychology at Westminster College. After four years of working for a community mental health center Audrey decided to go to law school. She relocated to Oregon in 2017 to attend the UO School of Law. She completed her law degree in May 2020. Upon graduation, Leahy Cox, LLP, a local Springfield law firm, hired Audrey on as an associate attorney. Audrey enjoys working for Leahy Cox and primarily practices family law. When not working Audrey enjoys being outside, spending time with friends, and traveling. 

Jessica Ubel
Ronald McDonald House Charities

Native Oregonian Jessica Ubel is the Development Manager in the brand new Heartfelt House where Ronald McDonald House Charities provides a “home away from home” for families with seriously ill or injured children seeking medical care. While relatively new to her role, she is no stranger to nonprofit work. Mostly out of naivety and optimism, she grew a social enterprise within a non-profit in Haiti, empowering women in poverty by providing training and jobs for mothers who desired to provide for  their families. In addition to fundraising for the program’s expenses, Jess learned every aspect of the business side, from supply chain to website development, growing the program from three to 11 employees. Her passion and ability to draw people together around a common focus is her super-power. Jess is active in her church, kids’ school, and loves to spend time riding bikes, hiking, and adventuring life with her husband and three children.  

Kevin Walters
Moss Adams

Kevin is a Tax Manager in the Eugene office of Moss Adams, and has worked there since August 2015. Before Moss Adams, Kevin obtained his accounting degree at the University of Oregon and a law degree from Washington & Lee University in Lexington, VA. In his time at Moss Adams, Kevin has worked with a wide variety of local businesses and individuals on tax and consulting work. His main area of interest and focus is trust & estate work. Kevin is a CPA in the state of Oregon and member of the Oregon State Bar.