Leadership Eugene Springfield Announces 2025-2026 Cohort

September 23, 2025

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Since 1986, Leadership Eugene Springfield (LES) has been a joint program of the Eugene and Springfield Chambers of Commerce, shaping civic leaders who are prepared to serve and advocate for their communities. For the 2025–26 program year, a cohort chosen from a strong pool of applicants will take part in monthly, full-day sessions designed to expand their networks, deepen their knowledge and awareness, and sharpen their leadership abilities across a wide range of topics. Running from October through May, the program concludes with a formal graduation. The Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce is pleased to introduce the 2025–26 LES cohort!

Alyssa Gilbert | ShelterCare

Alyssa Gilbert grew up in rural Oregon and moved to Eugene to get her Bachelor’s degree in Advertising at the University of Oregon’s School of Journalism and Communications. Her background is in national and local political campaigns.

Her current position, where she has worked for four years, is as Development and Marketing Coordinator at ShelterCare, a local nonprofit that provides housing and mental health services to those who have experienced homelessness. Her favorite part of her job is getting to interview successful program participants and share their powerful stories with the community.

Alyssa serves on the board of multiple community organizations, including the Children’s Legacy Foundation Network (formerly Eugene Active 20-30 Club), which fundraises and volunteers for local children’s charities, and the City Club of Eugene, which increases civic engagement by organizing weekly forums on local issues and elections. In her free time, you can find her snowboarding, playing trivia at a local brewery, or attending punk rock shows.

Amanda Elizabeth Adams | PacificSource Foundation for Health Improvement

Amanda Adams is a mission-driven leader working at the intersection of philanthropy, business, and community health. As Program Manager for the PacificSource Foundation for Health Improvement, she oversees grant-making and strategic partnerships that advance healthcare access and health equity across Oregon, Idaho, and Montana. With a B.S. in Human Services and an M.S. in Management & Leadership, she brings a systems-thinking approach to advancing equity and community resilience.

Now celebrating 10 years in Eugene, Amanda’s lived experience of growing up in many different places (AL/TX/CA/OR) fuels a deep commitment to affordable housing and inclusive community development. She recently served as Board President (2023 & 2024) for Habitat for Humanity of Central Lane, where she remains engaged in expanding local housing opportunities through creative collaborations that scale impact. As an AmeriCorps alumni and member of Eugene Southtowne Rotary Club, Amanda is dedicated to service and known for her collaborative spirit, strategic mindset, and commitment to sustainable organizational development.

When she’s not trying to change the world, she’s traveling it with her husband. She also enjoys gardening, crafting, and cuddling up with her cats and a good book.

Andrew Paul Brown | Eugene Emeralds

Working for the local professional sports team seems like a perfect adventure for someone who was born, raised, and educated in Eugene, OR. I enjoy the stereotypical Eugenian outdoor hobbies, but prefer to err on the side of danger as a snowboarder during the winter, and downhill mountain biker during the summer. I thrive when doubted, learn by asking questions, and strive to always be the best role model I can be.

While I love being a great negotiator, my professional passion is helping my staff and mentees reach their maximum potential and go beyond the boundaries of what they may think is possible. One day I dream to use these skills to create better sales professionals and better organizations.

I choose to show up in the world as kind, creative, and unique.

Anna Heironimus | SAIF Corporation

Anna Heironimus, a proud Oregonian from Sherwood, now calls Eugene home. She graduated summa cum laude from the University of Oregon with a B.S. in Planning, Public Policy, and Management and a minor in Food Studies. While at UO, Anna served as a peer advisor, supported athletic events, volunteered with Duck Corps, and joined the PPPM Student Advisory Board. She also interned with the Institute for Policy Research and Engagement, contributing to a hazard mitigation plan for the Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Tribe of Indians and a recreation plan for Madras Recreation District.

Anna now works as the Springfield office division assistant for SAIF Corporation, where she supports staff and customers while learning about industries across the region. She is also active on SAIF’s SERVE team, coordinating volunteer opportunities with local nonprofits.

In her free time, Anna enjoys cheering on the Ducks, discovering new coffee shops and gluten-free eats, and playing with her labradoodle, Sibby. Passionate about building a vibrant, equitable, and safe community, she is excited to continue growing that commitment through this program.

Bre Boersma | Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce

From West Michigan to the West Coast, Bre Boersma has always carried a spirit of curiosity and adventure. After earning her B.A. in Art & Design from the University of Michigan, she moved to Springfield, Oregon in the fall of 2022. Since then, she has dedicated a third of her time in Oregon to serving with the Springfield Chamber of Commerce, where she focuses on fostering a thriving and connected local business community.

As part of the Chamber’s team, Bre supports the mission of “fostering a prosperous community by strengthening, representing, and promoting business.” She draws on her background in design, her experience with the Barger Leadership Institute, and her time at the University of Michigan to help create meaningful and intentional connections.

Guided by creativity and a love of problem-solving, Bre is always looking for new opportunities and innovative solutions. Outside of her professional role, she enjoys exploring Lane County’s growing food scene and rockhounding her way across Oregon.

Bridget Killen | Robert Half

I’m a Recruiting Manager with Robert Half who has proudly called the Eugene-Springfield area home for over 20 years. With a passion for building genuine relationships, I specialize in connecting people with meaningful job opportunities that support both their career goals and our local economy. Over the years, I’ve developed strong partnerships with local businesses and organizations, helping to bridge the gap between great talent and the employers who need them.

Outside of work, I love spending time outdoors with my two dogs—Daisy May (Pug) and Holland Oates (Portuguese Water Dog). Whether we’re walking local trails, crabbing off the dock in Winchester Bay, or enjoying the weekend at the beach, it’s my favorite way to recharge! I also enjoy trying new local restaurants, supporting our amazing food truck community, and exploring local wineries.

Whether I’m helping someone find their next opportunity or building relationships in the community, I’m passionate about making Eugene-Springfield a thriving and supportive place to live and work.

Carrie Lynnea Gillies | Bushnell University

Carrie grew up in Florence, came to Eugene to study at the UO, and has called Eugene/Springfield home ever since. After graduating with a degree in Spanish, she began an internship with GloryBee that focused on export sales. She spent a total of 9 years with GloryBee in customer service, sales, and product management. In 2018, Carrie took a role in the admissions office at Bushnell University, where she continues to serve today. She works closely with new and prospective students and provides leadership for the admission team with a focus on graduate programs, the school of nursing, and online undergraduate programs. She is currently pursuing a master’s degree in higher education administration, which she will complete in 2026.

For 7 years Carrie volunteered in the kitchen for Agape Youth Camp, where she learned how to cook for large groups. She and her husband Tom enjoy cooking and baking, and they regularly volunteer as caterers for college ministry group retreats and fundraising events. They’ve also enjoyed participating in vocal groups in the Eugene area, and they regularly do trail work with the Pacific Crest Trail Association. They enjoy hiking, camping, and trying new restaurants and bakeries.

Christine West Silver | Self/Silver Business Solutions

After 12 years in Human Resources, swimming in policies and compliance, Christine was ready for something different—something that didn’t make her want to stab herself with a pencil. She craved real conversations about people, growth, and leadership. Then came the lightbulb moment: a workshop with a management consultant. The second he started facilitating, she thought, That. That’s what I want to do.

One mentor (and one brave leap) later, she ditched the corporate grind and built a reputation as a no-nonsense facilitator and coach. Her specialty is performance management and she is trained as a mediator, teaching the skills and helping people resolve conflicts. Two decades and thousands of clients later, she’s still at it—helping leaders navigate the tough people stuff with practical, real-world solutions.

Now based in Eugene, Oregon, Silver Business Solutions LLC supports small to mid-size organizations in both the non- and for-profit sectors.

Christine is also a CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) and an active member of the Springfield Chamber of Commerce, volunteering as an Ambassador, a member of the Member Experience committee and the Greeters Fun committee.

Courtney Renee Caimona | Hershner Hunter LLP

Courtney is a litigator with the law firm Hershner Hunter, LLP. She represents both individuals and businesses in real estate matters, construction defect matters, and complex commercial disputes. Courtney’s recent work has included litigating various direct and derivative claims between the members and managers of an LLC and significant contract disputes. Courtney earned her law degree from the University of Oregon School of Law. While in law school, she externed for the Honorable Lynn R. Nakamoto at the Oregon Supreme Court. Courtney’s undergraduate degree is from the George Washington University in Washington, DC.

After her undergraduate studies, Courtney served in the United States Marine Corps where she was forward-deployed to Okinawa, Japan. She worked as a public affairs officer who managed a variety of communications responsibilities, including international press conferences and media interviews. Outside of practicing law, Courtney can be found hiking, scuba diving, or taking walks through her neighborhood with her partner and their dog and cat.

Cynthia Cannon Poindexter | Retired Social Worker

Cynthia Cannon Poindexter is a retired social worker, having worked and taught primarily in the fields of HIV-related policy and practice, leadership and supervision, and human rights. She has received eleven HIV-related research grants and was a Fulbright Senior Specialist at the University of Auckland in New Zealand.

After retiring to Eugene, she taught graduate social workers at Pacific University and Portland State University, and has volunteered with HIV Alliance, NAACP, Senior and Disability Services, End of Life Oregon, and Eugene Human Rights Commission.

Denley Nagata | Graduate by Hilton Eugene

My name is Denley Nagata, currently a Sales Manager at Graduate by Hilton Eugene, focusing on corporate, tour/travel, and short-term group markets. Growing up on the Pacific Island of Palau, I learned WAVE – Welcome All Visitors Enthusiastically during an elementary school presentation on tourism. That message, combined with the communal values of my culture, sparked a passion for hospitality that continues to guide my work. After high school in Portland, I moved to Eugene to attend the University of Oregon and later joined Lane Community College’s Hospitality program, which strengthened my skills and industry knowledge. I began my career at the Shedd Institute, overseeing food and beverage and events, and later became a food and beverage supervisor at the Downtown Athletic Club, eventually leading its Conference Center. In 2022, I transitioned into hotels.

I’ve called Eugene home for nearly 14 years. Outside of work, you can find me hiking, playing volleyball at the Bob Keefer Center and Kidsports, biking along the river, or exploring local restaurants. I volunteer with Burrito Brigade, and am exploring additional ways to give back. I am committed to strengthening ties and resources for our community, with a focus on other Asian and Pacific Islander residents.

DJ Kelly-Quattrocchi | KQ Consulting & Training LLC

DJ Kelly-Quattrocchi is a consultant, facilitator, and community leader committed to advancing equity, inclusion, and leadership development in Lane County. As the founder and CEO of KQ Consulting & Training LLC, DJ partners with higher education institutions, nonprofits, and government agencies to design and deliver impactful leadership programs, strategic planning processes, and engaging facilitations that translate values into measurable practice.

DJ holds a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Human Development & Family Sciences and Master of Science (M.S.) in College Student Services Administration from Oregon State University. KQ Consulting & Training LLC is certified as an Emerging Small Business by the State of Oregon and is part of Oregon Pride in Business – Oregon and Southwest Washington’s LGBTQ+ Chamber of Commerce.

When he’s not working, DJ enjoys playing board games with friends, reading a good fantasy book, and completing the local escape rooms in Lane County.

Drea Smith | Tip Tap Grow Performing Arts School

Drea is the founder of Tip Tap Grow Performing Arts School in Eugene, Oregon, where she combines her unmatched passion, professionalism, and energy to create transformative experiences for young children. Known for her creativity and natural leadership, she brings confidence and vision to every project she takes on.

As an entrepreneur and community leader, Drea has played a key role in shaping Eugene’s cultural landscape. She co-founded the Eugene Juneteenth Celebration, which from 2020–2023 grew into the city’s largest Juneteenth event, bringing community together in Alton Baker Park. Her leadership extends into nonprofit service, where she has served as vice president of Daisy CHAIN, president of Xcape Dance Company, and contributed her voice to advisory committees for Early Childhood Education at Lane Community College and the Early Learning Hub of Lane County.

At the legislative level, Drea has testified in hearings with Family Forward, advocating for child care providers and families. Her expertise includes building nonprofit boards, creating and implementing policies, planning large-scale events, and securing funding through grants and partnerships. Drea is innovative, creative, and deeply committed to strengthening community through the arts. She is honored to be part of this year’s LES cohort.

Elyse Ditzel | City of Springfield

Elyse Ditzel is the Public Information Officer for the City of Springfield, Oregon. She leads strategic communications and public engagement efforts, helping bridge the gap between local government and community through openness, clear messaging, and trust-building.

Her career spans the nonprofit, private, and public sectors, where she has developed deep expertise in storytelling, brand strategy, crisis communication, and community outreach. Elyse uses these skills to make complex issues accessible, foster shared understanding, and elevate voices across diverse communities.

She earned her MBA in 2025 and is now pursuing a Master of Science in Strategic Leadership. Elyse served on the Springfield Fiscal Stability Task Force, guiding long-term revenue strategy, budget prioritization, and community stewardship. As an analytical thinker, her leadership blends strategic insight with a keen focus on human connection, always seeking to foster understanding and clarity.

She believes strongly in showing up each day with intention. Whether through small business support, intergenerational dialogue, or creating space for community stories to surface, Elyse strives to build belonging, mutual respect, and civic trust. Her purpose is to help Eugene–Springfield thrive by connecting people, purpose, and possibility.

Garrett Vollstedt | GrassRoots Landscaping LLC

Garrett Vollstedt was raised in the Eugene-Springfield area and has been actively involved in the local community for many years. He is a husband and father of three young kids, and he is also the owner of GrassRoots Landscape Company, where he has built a business rooted in a commitment to quality, service and a strong emphasis on workplace culture. Garrett is a fourth-generation member of Oregon’s landscape and nursery industry, carrying forward a legacy of stewardship and craftsmanship.

In addition to the company’s landscaping services, GrassRoots operates a 23-acre nursery in the heart of Springfield, where plants are grown and sourced to bring clients’ outdoor spaces to life. The nursery property has been extensively transformed over the past several years to showcase ideas, gardens and spaces as well as host events such as weddings, networking, and gatherings of friends and family. Beyond landscaping and nursery operations, Garrett has also been active in homebuilding and real estate development in the Eugene-Springfield area, contributing to projects that support growth while honoring the character of the region.

Jack Boisen | St. Vincent de Paul

Jack Boisen is the Administrative Director for St. Vincent de Paul. In this role, Jack supervises SVdP’s homeless shelter and support programs and community engagement department and provides the Executive Director with high-level interdepartmental support.

Jack has worked with nonprofits focused on assisting and housing the homeless for over 11 years, including 7 of those years within our local, Lane County community. He is passionate about bridging support for the most vulnerable with an understanding for the community’s needs at large. Outside of work, Jack married his best friend last year and started a family, with their first child just turning 8 months old in August. He also loves to read, write and spend time with family.

Jackson William Heath | Summit Bank

My name is Jackson Heath and I am a Senior Credit Analyst at Summit Bank. As a credit analyst I specialize in evaluating commercial lending opportunities, assessing risk, and supporting sound credit decisions that help local businesses thrive. I enjoy working at a community bank because I get to work with non-profits and businesses in a variety of industries.

I graduated from the University of Oregon in 2022 with a Business Administration degree. While I’m not at the bank, I enjoy being a member of the Children’s Legacy Foundation. The Children’s Legacy Foundation is a non-profit organization with the mission of helping underserved children in Lane County. During my time as a Director on the board, I learned the value of volunteering and creating a positive impact in the community. Our club does fundraising and we run our own projects like The Giving Tree at Valley River Center. In my free time I like to play golf, trivia, crokinole, and travel.

Jazmin V. Pelayo | SELCO Community Credit Union

Jazmin Pelayo was born in Guadalajara, Jalisco, and raised in Oregon, where she cultivated a deep appreciation for community and culture. She serves as a Bilingual Marketing & Community Development Associate at SELCO Community Credit Union, supporting marketing campaigns, managing vendor partnerships, translating materials, and coordinating community involvement.

Inspired by mentors and past graduates, Jazmin is excited to grow her impact through the program, with a focus on amplifying diverse voices and supporting Spanish-speaking communities. Outside of work, she’s a wife and mom to her two-year-old daughter, and enjoys hiking, camping, and paddleboarding in Oregon’s outdoors.

Jennifer McGreaham

Community and collaboration are at the heart of Jen’s world. She serves on the board of AYSO, the soccer program her son plays in, and recently took on the role of assistant coach as well. She also volunteers at her children’s school, including creating the annual yearbook (a passion that has stuck with her since high school!).

Her professional background includes more than a decade in the financial industry, where she first discovered her passion for marketing. This eventually led her to the Eugene Chamber of Commerce, where she spearheaded marketing efforts for three years—including the challenging pivot of keeping the community connected during COVID.

When she’s not immersed in communications and community-building, Jen can be found tending to her newly established garden (with varying degrees of success), dusting off her golf clubs, or dreaming up ambitious home projects and then convincing her husband to help bring them to life.

Above all, Jen loves finding ways to open lines of communication—whether in business, community, or family life—because she believes that the right message at the right time has the power to connect, inspire, and make things happen.

Jesse Hansen | Douglas Fast Net (DFN)

My name is Jesse Hansen, and I currently live in Eugene, OR with my wife and three children. I have worked at DFN for three years and am currently a Commercial Account Manager working with new and existing DFN customers in Lane, Coos, and Douglas Counties. DFN is a 100% Oregon owned and operated fiber internet provider headquartered in Roseburg, OR.

I was born and raised in beautiful Eugene, OR and have lived here my whole life. I attended Marist High School and went on to get my associate’s degree from Lane Community College and graduated from the University of Oregon with a B.S in Environmental Studies. I have worked at various non-profit organizations including United Way of Lane County in fundraising and Kidsports as a Sports Manager organizing and coaching youth sports throughout the Eugene/Springfield area. Before my work in the Telecommunications industry, I have worked in various sales and customer service roles in Eugene/Springfield specializing in branded merchandise at Mckenzie SewOn and SaaS at SheerID.

I enjoy live music with my wife, traveling with my family in our 85 Volkswagen van, snowboarding with my kids throughout the west coast, wake surfing at Triangle Lake, attending OSU Beavers Football/Basketball/Baseball games, and landscaping/gardening at our home in South Eugene.

Julie Burket | Eugene Mission

Julie Burket is the Associate Philanthropy Director at the Eugene Mission, one of the region’s largest residential wellness centers for the homeless. In her role, she connects donors, volunteers, and community partners to the Mission’s work of providing long-term recovery pathways for people experiencing homelessness, addiction and mental illness. Her focus includes developing meaningful donor engagement strategies, creating hospitality experiences, and supporting the Mission’s vision of helping individuals find a permanent path off the streets.

Julie has more than twenty years of experience in leadership and relationship-building across nonprofit and community initiatives. She and her husband, Cory, have raised three children and are now enjoying the new season of becoming grandparents. Outside of work, Julie loves gardening and spending time with her two doodles, Lincoln and Gus.

She is passionate about collaboration and believes strong connections lead to lasting impact. As part of the 2025–2026 Leadership Eugene Springfield cohort, Julie looks forward to learning alongside local leaders and contributing her skills in strategy, service, and community building.

Dr. Kelly Colleen Morgan | Morgan Men’s Health Center

Dr. Kelly Colleen Morgan, MD, MS is a board-certified urologist, researcher, and the founder of Morgan Men’s Health Center in Eugene. She brings over 25 years of experience bridging medicine, research, and community service.

After earning her medical degree at Penn State College of Medicine and a master’s in Neuroscience from Yale University, Dr. Morgan completed her surgical residency at Stanford University School of Medicine. She went on to practice as a urological surgeon at Kaiser Permanente in California before becoming Chief of Urology at the Eugene VA, where she built the department from the ground up.

Now as a small business owner, Dr. Morgan is dedicated to expanding access to integrative men’s health and wellness. She is a reiki master devoted to lifelong learning in the healing arts. Her vision combines evidence-based medicine with holistic practices, addressing not only the physical needs of men, but also their mental and emotional well-being.

An avid traveler, Dr. Morgan is fluent in several languages, has lived and worked abroad, and has participated in multiple medical missions. She brings a global perspective, compassionate clinical experience, and a deep desire to serve the community.

Laura Brown | Eugene Education Foundation

Laura Brown is Executive Director of Eugene Education Foundation. With over a decade of nonprofit sector experience, she has successfully managed philanthropic programs, board relations, and fundraising initiatives at organizations including a regional credit union and the American Cancer Society, where she received top fundraising recognition.

Laura earned her BA in Communications, Public Administration, and Nonprofit Management from The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. Since relocating to Oregon in 2016, Laura has demonstrated deep community commitment through her service on her local library board of directors, Men Wear Pink of Lane County planning committee, and Muscular Dystrophy Association leadership committee. She is also an active member of the Rotary Club of Eugene and a sustainer of the Junior League of Eugene.

Laura Calles | Waterford Grand Assisted Living and Memory Care

Dr. Laura Calles has been a physical therapist since 2012. She started her career working at a top-rated rehabilitation hospital in Houston, TX before moving to Eugene, OR in 2016 in search of healthcare leadership opportunities. In 2020, Laura opened her own PT practice in West Eugene. In 2024, looking for a new challenge, she started as the in-house PT at several assisted living and memory care communities in Eugene and Springfield.

Laura has always loved working with seniors and in 2025 she transitioned out of physical therapy and into the role of Associate Executive Director at Waterford Grand Memory Care, which she loves. Laura is also the current Noble Grand of the Eugene chapter of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and loves promoting “community for the sake of community.

Margie Anderson | Obie Hospitality – Inn at the 5th & Gordon Hotel

Margie Anderson is a lifelong Eugene native passionate about community, connection, and growth. With a background that bridges business and hospitality, she brings a well-rounded perspective to any conversation. Having also recently completed her MBA in marketing and corporate finance, she values continuous learning and applying new ideas in meaningful ways.

Her current role as Director of Sales with Obie Hospitality focuses on creating experiences that bring people together—whether in hospitality or community partnerships. Known for endless curiosity, attention to detail, and collaborative spirit, Margie enjoys existing in environments that challenge individuals to think both creatively and strategically. As an active member of the Eugene Delta Rotary, she is committed to service above self and relishes engaging in projects that strengthen the local community.

Outside of work, Margie enjoys exploring Oregon’s nature with her husband, two young daughters, and yellow lab named Rebel. She enjoys golfing, fishing, sampling local food (and drinks), and of course cheering on the Oregon Ducks.

Margie is honored to join the Leadership Eugene-Springfield program and looks forward to building connections, deepening her understanding of local issues, and contributing to the region’s vitality.

McKenna Sampson | Moss Adams x Baker Tilly

McKenna moved to Eugene in 2019 from Montana. With a background as a Certified Public Accountant, she brings a strong foundation in finance and assurance, working primarily with healthcare organizations at Baker Tilly (heritage Moss Adams) as an assurance manager. Beyond her professional role, McKenna is passionate about giving back and fostering connections within the community.

While in Montana, she volunteered with Big Brothers Big Sisters and the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. Since relocating to Eugene, she has recently started volunteering with Greenhill Animal Shelter.

An alumna of the University of Montana, McKenna earned her Master of Accountancy in 2019 before moving to Oregon. She values continuous learning and community engagement and looks forward to growing her network through the Eugene-Springfield Leadership program.

Outside of work, McKenna enjoys hiking, reading, and baking.

Robb Evans | Converted Kitchen

Hi, I am Robb Evans, owner of Converted Kitchen. I have been a resident of Oregon for the better part of 40 years. I have two adult daughters here as well as 4 grandchildren. I am an active outdoorsman and a performing arts enthusiast.

For most of my adult life I have been in sales, and remodeled homes as a side gig. In 2017 I combined the two and now sell kitchen remodels that allow for virtually any homeowner to upgrade their homes.

A little over 10 years ago, I realized that I could make a difference and became active in the civic community. I participate on several committees, I am a board member for non-profits, and a regular attendee of most Eugene and Springfield Chamber of Commerce activities. I believe that each of us can make change in the world if we simply “show up.”

I am a lifelong learner and challenge myself daily to improve on myself. By doing so I feel that I can better the community in which I live.

Ruth Huang | University of Oregon

Ruth Huang (she/her) is a program associate in the University of Oregon’s Division of Equity and Inclusion. She collaborates with campus colleagues and local community partners to lead programs for underrepresented students, faculty, and staff, and create opportunities that foster community at UO and beyond.

Ruth discovered her passion for creating transformative experiences for students during her undergraduate years at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, which led her to pursue a master’s degree in education at Seattle University. Originally from Taiwan, Ruth also lived in Singapore and China before moving to the U.S. for college. Her desire to nurture diverse and inclusive environments stems from her multicultural upbringing and love for people.

Outside of work, Ruth enjoys biking, hiking, climbing, camping, eating good food, and hanging out with friends. She serves on the planning team for Eugene Climbers of Color, a grassroots volunteer-led group that aims to make the sport of climbing more accessible to BIPOC folks. She also occasionally volunteers for Shift Community Cycles to help remove barriers in cycling and connect people with bicycles. Ruth’s favorite quote is, “Life isn’t tied with a bow, but it’s still a gift” by Regina Brett.

Sarah Reiter | Oregon Shores Conservation Coalition

Sarah Reiter is the Operations and Development Manager for a local conservation nonprofit, Oregon Shores. After graduating from the University of Oregon in 2013, Sarah dedicated her life to making the world a better place. After a brief foray into political advertising, she focused her energy on nonprofit work. Sarah returned to Eugene in 2018 to pursue a dual Master’s in Nonprofit Management and a Master’s in Public Policy through the University of Oregon’s School of Public Policy, Planning and Management. After graduating from the program in 2020 she decided to put down roots permanently in Eugene.

Sarah is an active volunteer in the community with multiple nonprofit organizations, including FOOD For Lane County, the Eugene Education Foundation, and the Boys and Girls Club of Emerald Valley. She brings enthusiasm and teamwork to every challenge she faces, and enjoys bringing folks together through community engagement. With over a decade of nonprofit experience, she enjoys finding innovative solutions and developing opportunities for community growth. Outside of work Sarah enjoys spending time in nature with her family and two adorable dogs.

Stephanie Picotte | City of Eugene Airport

Stephanie Picotte grew up in Elmira, OR. She received a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Oregon and a Master’s Degree in Business Administration from Northwest Christian University. Prior to joining the management team at the Eugene Airport, Stephanie worked locally for The Willamette Valley Company as an Assistant Controller, and Atlantic Aviation as a Customer Service Manager.

Outside of work, Stephanie has two young boys, who monopolize most of her free time and enjoys spending time with family, reading, painting, traveling and learning new things.

Sydney Mills | PAE Consulting Engineers

Sydney Mills was raised in Eugene and returned to her childhood neighborhood about 10 years ago with her husband, Antwon, and their two kids, Tori and Houston. Life is full and lively, between school drop-offs, various practices, and community events, they stay closely connected to their neighborhood and school.

A graduate of the University of Oregon and Concordia Portland, Sydney works as a project manager at PAE, where she supports teams working on sustainable design projects. Her work reflects her broader commitment to community and collaboration.

Sydney is also actively involved in local organizations that matter to her family and career. She serves as president of both the Busy Bees PTO at McCornack Elementary School, where her children attend, and the Willamette Valley chapter of the Construction Specifications Institute (CSI). These roles allow her to advocate for families, support education, and connect with others who care about building strong, inclusive communities.

She’s excited to be part of Leadership Eugene-Springfield and looks forward to learning from and alongside others who are committed to making a positive impact in the region.

Timothy Woolley | IEQ Technology, Inc.

Timothy Woolley is President and founder of IEQ Technology, a managed services provider and custom software development firm based in Springfield, Oregon. Since 2011, he has led IEQ with a focus on practical solutions, accountability, and long-term partnerships. IEQ serves educational institutions, healthcare providers, utilities, municipalities, nonprofits, and businesses across the Northwest and the United States, delivering managed IT services, cybersecurity, network administration, legacy systems support, and custom software development.

An Oregon native, born in Coos Bay, Tim comes from a logging family and spent 12 years working in the woods before going back to school. He earned his degree in Computer and Information Science from the University of Oregon. That blend of real-world experience and formal training shaped his approach to technology: straightforward, results-driven, and without hype.

In addition to his work in technology, Tim has co-authored several scholarly articles, bringing a research-based perspective to his problem-solving. Under his leadership, IEQ has built a reputation as a reliable partner that organizations can count on. Tim’s focus remains on solving problems, protecting systems, and helping organizations succeed.

Learn more about the Leadership Eugene Springfield (LES) program.