BACC Chamber Member of the Year

Purpose: We're excited to spotlight a standout Beaverton Area Chamber member whose consistent contributions have significantly shaped the chamber's success.

Criteria: This current, in-good-standing member has gone above and beyond, playing a pivotal role in fostering collaboration and success within the chamber. Beyond membership, they embody the chamber's values, actively working towards its mission and betterment of the community. As a trusted advocate, this individual promotes chamber initiatives, contributing to its growth and overall well-being.

Florian Raqueño - Florian Raqueño Productions Florian has a rare and natural ability to bring people together. She connects people, builds relationships, and strengthens our business community in a way that feels effortless. Her commitment goes far beyond attendance of events as well. Through her service on the Business Advocacy Council, the Board of Directors, and her consistent presence at various Chamber events, Florian actively supports and advances our mission. She promotes Chamber initiatives and has played a huge role in our growth and overall wellbeing. Florian’s leadership and influence have definitely helped shape our Chamber and our community into what it is today! She is an incredibly deserving recipient of the Chamber Member of the Year Award!

Ernie Claeson - A Beaverton resident and business owner, Ernie has been an active member of the Beaverton Area Chamber for years, serving on several committees, including Ambassadors, and currently contributing to the Evolving Leaders Committee while also serving on the Chamber Board of Directors. Any time help is needed, Ernie raises his hand.  He has been a really great part of the Chamber and truly goes above and beyond. You will see him everywhere from Coffee Connections to Ribbon Cuttings and everything in between.  Most recently, he is serving as the Chair of our foundation, Beaverton Community Foundation!

Tammy Yorba - Edward Jones - Tammy is the definition of a dedicated advocate, demonstrated by her tireless service across multiple leadership tiers. As Chair of the Women in Business committee, she has created a vital space for professional growth and empowerment. Simultaneously, her roles on the Ambassador Committee and the Member Mentors committee showcase her unique ability to welcome, guide, and champion both new and established members. Tammy’s unwavering belief in the Chamber’s mission is matched only by her willingness to advocate for the broader community. She doesn't just represent the Chamber; she builds it, one mentorship and one connection at a time

BACC Corporate Partner of the Year Award

Purpose: We acknowledge a longstanding Beaverton Area Chamber member, a business that has consistently demonstrated social responsibility, enhancing community life and setting high standards for living and working in and around Beaverton. 

Criteria: This company's commitment to social responsibility, upheld over at least three years of Chamber membership, has significantly contributed to the betterment of our community.

NW Natural - NW Natural has been an incredible longstanding Visionary Partner of the Beaverton Area Chamber of Commerce and passionately supports local business. NW Natural serves the BACC Advocacy council as well as sponsoring the monthly Q & A sessions with local elected officials. Beyond that, NW Natural has been an active supporter of the Beaverton, Oregon community through various initiatives. The company contributes nearly $1 million annually to local nonprofits, focusing on areas such as youth and family resiliency, environmental stewardship, health and human services, and arts and culture. Additionally, NW Natural's Gas Assistance Program has provided over $6.7 million since 1982 to help low-income families and seniors, including those in Beaverton, pay their heating bills.

Marsh McLennan Agency has been the Title Sponsor of the Mover of Mountains Gala for four years!  They took a risk on the event when it was only an idea in our heads! Since that time, the BACC has raised more than 60K for scholarships!  Beyond this, MMA is a Visionary Partner with the BACC and has more than one representative serving on multiple committees.

AC Hotel Beaverton seeks not just to operate within the community but to be a pillar within and give back to it. Through active participation at BACC events and quiet donations to OSAA, Elite Sports Academy, Girl Scouts of Oregon, and Beaverton Police Department. AC Hotel Beaverton knows that you cannot operate in a community without being a part of the community, and strives to give back in meaningful ways.

Beaverton Community Member of the Year Award

Purpose: We honor this Beaverton resident for their unwavering commitment to the community. Recognized for outstanding achievements outside of business, they have positively impacted the well-being of Beaverton in remarkable ways, especially in the last two years.

Criteria: Emphasizing recent accomplishments, this resident's dedication goes beyond business, making a significant impact on the community's well-being.

Kim Marshall - Kim’s leadership is defined by a rare combination of strategic vision and profound empathy. Under her guidance, Project Homeless Connect has become more than just a resource hub; it is a beacon of hope and dignity for our most vulnerable residents. Kim’s tireless advocacy and her ability to mobilize volunteers, local businesses, and government agencies have transformed the way our community addresses homelessness. She doesn't just manage a non-profit, she leads a movement of compassion, ensuring that every individual is seen, heard, and supported. Kim Marshall is the heart of our community's humanitarian efforts, and her dedication makes our community a better place for everyone.

Ryan Still - Ryan is the best! He is always supporting everything. He always has a smile on his face. Everyone is his friend. Ryan is an avid sponsor of nonprofits in Beaverton.  He works collaboratively with all businesses in the area to support better business for all.  He strives to create a better Beaverton Community!

Natali Pardo - A lifelong Beaverton resident, Natali has served as an Events Coordinator for the City of Beaverton for the past four years, showing up for this community with heart, intention, and genuine care. Her impact is felt in some of Beaverton’s most beloved events—including the Volunteer Fair, Bike Beaverton, the Night Market, and the annual Tree Lighting—where her thoughtful coordination transforms gatherings into meaningful experiences that bring people together and strengthen community pride. Known for her calm presence, reliability, and quiet strength, Natali approaches every detail with care while making those around her feel supported and valued. She has a remarkable ability to anticipate needs and step in where it matters most, contributing in both visible and unseen ways. Through her work and her character, Natali helps create a more connected, welcoming, and vibrant Beaverton—and our community is better because of her.

BACC Small Business Partner of the Year Award

Purpose: We proudly recognize a small business (100 or fewer employees) for their significant contributions to our local economic growth. This award celebrates their successes and positive impact on our community.

Criteria: This esteemed business, a Beaverton Area Chamber member, has played a vital role in fostering local economic growth through their initiatives.

VIDA is more than a small business; it is an economic engine that supports entrepreneurs, nonprofits, and professional women both locally and nationwide.  Today, VIDA serves more than 300 in-person members and surpassed $1 million in annual revenue in 2024 — a milestone achieved by only approximately 2% of women-owned businesses nationwide. This accomplishment reflects not only business success but sustained and measurable economic impact in our region.   VIDA also houses several nonprofit organizations and provides complimentary event and meeting space, enabling them to direct more funding toward their missions rather than overhead. This approach strengthens Beaverton’s civic infrastructure and keeps resources circulating within our local economy. VIDA makes a lasting impact in Beaverton and beyond.

Urban River Spirits is the only non-alcoholic lounge in Washington County! Beyond their physical space, which began in Forest Grove and moved to downtown Hillsboro, they find homes all over the region, including the Beaverton Farmers Market.  Why not simply sell out of their storefront?  Because they are striving to serve and create community well beyond their doors.  In a society where so much centers around alcohol, they are making everyone feel welcome, no matter how they choose to celebrate!  Recently, they served beverages at Beaverton's State of the City - helping to make our entire community feel welcome!

Great Greek Mediterranean Grill. This veteran-owned restaurant not only delivers wonderful food and consistently outstanding service, but also generously supports our Chamber by hosting events and creating a welcoming space for our community. Beyond their business, the owner’s involvement in our new Veterans Committee and hosting veterans' open houses shows a great dedication to serving others. Her leadership, community impact, and heart for both fellow veterans and local businesses make The Great Greek very deserving of the Small Business of the Year award!

BACC Non-Profit Partner of the Year Award

Purpose: Honor and commend a distinguished non-profit partner of the Beaverton Area Chamber of Commerce for their outstanding service to our community. This award aims to celebrate their achievements and the positive influence they have had on the well-being of our community.

Criteria: This prestigious recognition is reserved for a non-profit organization that is a valued member of the Beaverton Area Chamber. The recipient has played a pivotal role in serving the Beaverton community, demonstrating a commitment to making a meaningful impact and contributing to the betterment of the local area.

Family Peace Center - On January 2, the Family Justice Center closed its Beaverton location and transitioned into the Family Peace Center in Hillsboro—an expanded, next-generation center built on the foundation established in Beaverton. While the physical location has changed, the legacy of service, partnership, and community impact in Beaverton remains profound and enduring. For its unwavering commitment to survivors, its extraordinary collaborative leadership, and its lasting positive impact on the safety and health of the Beaverton community. Providers (more than 20 organizations) work collaboratively with our community to provide a single location for prevention, intervention, healing, and hope for survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and child abuse in Washington County.

Program for Intellectual Empowerment - Since 2018, Pauline and her team at the Program for Intellectual Empowerment (PIE) have been doing so much more than just providing a service; they’ve been building a bridge. By creating a warm, creative space where individuals with autism and developmental disabilities can truly be themselves, Pauline has turned "inclusion" from a buzzword into a reality. Whether she is championing her students in the classroom or advocating for a more empathetic community at large, her approach focuses on what people can do, fostering self-expression and connection in a way that helps everyone thrive. PIE deserves to be Nonprofit of the Year because Pauline doesn’t just fill a gap in support; she creates a village where neurodivergent and neurotypical neighbors learn, grow, and celebrate one another side-by-side.

Organización De Amigos  (Amigos) is a local nonprofit that supports kids and families in Beaverton and Hillsboro by bringing free after-school fitness and mentorship programs directly into public schools. Their programs help elementary-age students build confidence, strength, and healthy habits, while also learning teamwork, resilience, and self-belief. Beyond regular classes, Amigos creates community events and special experiences that give kids positive challenges and a sense of belonging. By working closely with schools, volunteers, and local partners, Amigos removes barriers like cost and access, making sure all kids—regardless of background—have the chance to move, grow, and thrive.

Public Safety Excellence Award

Purpose: To recognize an individual who goes above and beyond their role to ensure public safety and enhance the well-being of the Beaverton community.

Criteria: Honoring police officers, firefighters, public servants, or any individual making exceptional strides in public safety, this award highlights those who consistently exceed expectations, whether in their paid positions or through voluntary efforts.

Sergeant Eamon O'Reilly Washington County Sheriff's Department - While his professional conduct and leadership within the department are exemplary, his commitment to the community is best seen through his dedicated support of the Beaverton Education Foundation’s ‘Doggie Dots’ program. By championing this student-run business, Sergeant O'Reilly provides invaluable encouragement to students as they develop real-world vocational skills. His presence and partnership with these young entrepreneurs demonstrate a rare level of compassion and a belief that public safety is built on a foundation of inclusion and support for all citizens. Sergeant O'Reilly doesn't just protect our county; he actively invests in the confidence and future of its students.

Corporal Justin Gabler became the Washington County Sheriff’s Office’s first Jail Investigator in 2021, a role created to investigate crimes and rule violations occurring inside the jail or which had a nexus to adults already in custody. Over the past five years, he has handled 502 cases, including 38 assaults, 18 witness tampering investigations, 33 contraband incidents, 14 aggravated harassment cases, and 64 PREA (Prison Rape Elimination Act) cases. Cpl. Gabler has been key in identifying adults in custody who contact or otherwise attempt to re victimize their victims from within the jail, ensuring they are held accountable through disciplinary action or criminal prosecution. Justin has also become a board member of the county’s Domestic Violence Resource Center, an offshoot of his work investigating domestic violence cases in which perpetrators attempted to continue exerting an influence over their victims from jail. His investigations have resulted in numerous successful criminal prosecutions in cases of witness tampering, contempt of court, violation of restraining orders and violations of jail release agreements. As the second largest city in Washington County, the City of Beaverton relies on the jail services provided by the Washington County Sheriff’s Office. Its residents deserve confidence that individuals in the jail’s custody cannot continue to harm members of the community from inside the facility. Justin Gabler’s hard work in combating these crimes is an excellent example of WCSO’s dedication to community safety, and exemplifies the high standards to which Justin holds himself and his important work.

Detective Amanda Pickar serves at the Family Peace Center (FPC) with a DV caseload Current Role and Investigation Philosophy Her work at the Family Peace Center includes: Responding to walk-ins as well as calls for service related to domestic violence (DV) ranging from support and resource referrals to complex investigations, creating and presenting DV investigation training for law enforcement officers, training recruit officers how to effectively work with victims and conduct comprehensive domestic violence investigations, testimony on criminal cases in Federal and Circuit court, crisis intervention, de-escalation, and public speaking. Amanda’s DV investigations are far more than an evaluation and possible arrest of one event at hand. While a victim may be focused on an incident that brought them to the police, Amanda is assessing historical patterns of abuse and dynamics that restrain a victim from leaving their situation. She takes her time to assess and respond to the emotional state of a victim and uses various means of communication to build rapport, leading to greater trust and participation in the investigative and prosecutorial process. She has noted she stays flexible in her approach and style with respect to people’s history with police, schedules, and past trauma. She has met with victims after hours at Family Peace Center and other locations, or initially by phone in order to provide a confidential and safe environment away from the police department. Amanda’s goal is to foster participation and show that as an officer she wants to help, while educating the involved about her role at the same time. She sees her desire to investigate, form probable cause for an arrest and resolve the criminal case is often not the priority of a DV victim; She will offer support, guidance, resources, facts, and an empathetic ear to start off a conversation. She has noted that providing tangible help in the form of food bags, working cell phones, diapers and formula may be of greater initial relevance for many victims than asking questions about the aspects of domestic violence. While working with the victim, Amanda is considering employment, pets, kids, and other dynamics that may need assistance to better serve the long-term successful change of situation; she has direct relationships with victim advocates and various sources of resources to help buttress lasting change. She often introduces humor, baked treats, and other comforting tactics as she helps victims through events like a grand jury or trial. Leadership & Community Engagement

Dedication to Youth Excellence Award

Purpose: To recognize an individual who fosters a positive environment to teach, educate, instruct,

counsel or inspire our youth in Beaverton.

Criteria: Any individual who demonstrates a unique ability to improve or advance the life of a young person

through teaching, coaching, instruction, or mentoring.

Bjorn Paige has served as the Principal of ACMA for over 8 years and has over 25 years of experience as an educator and administrator. As the principal of ACMA, he exemplifies visionary leadership, unwavering dedication to students, and a deep commitment to educational excellence. Students at ACMA feel safe, valued, and inspired to achieve their full potential, and parents in the ACMA PTO are grateful for his collaboration. Principal Paige is at every event, which at an arts school means some weeks he is at evening events 3-4 times a week. He hosts the monthly Open Mic, where any student can perform, and during the December Flurry of Giving, where students raise money for ACMA families in need, one of the biggest incentives for students is to raise enough money to get the opportunity to dress him up. In every sense, Principal Paige embodies the qualities of an outstanding educational leader: integrity, vision, dedication, and heart. The positive impact he has had on students, staff, and families will be felt for years to come.

Lauren Garrett Beaverton Education Foundation represents the backbone of Dedication to Youth Excellence, consistently demonstrating an unwavering commitment to the success and empowerment of the students. Her dedication is not only evident in her daily work but in the systems, relationships, and opportunities she creates to ensure all students thrive. When presented with new project ideas for schools, Lauren approaches each one with a broad and thoughtful lens, evaluating whether the initiative advances student success and how it can engage the wider community in meaningful ways. She truly embraces the “it takes a village” philosophy, intentionally inviting community partners, local organizations, and businesses to contribute to student opportunities. Her collaborative approach not only enriches individual projects but expands the network of care surrounding our youth. Lauren is also a remarkable builder of community connections. She has forged relationships with local nonprofits and businesses to create pathways for scholarships, internships, and real world experiences. Her work ensures that students are not only recognized for their achievements but also connected to resources that help them reach the next stage of their growth. She brings compassion, strategic thinking, and an unwavering belief in a youth's potential. Her impact is felt not just in program outcomes, but in the lives of our students and our staff.

As a Youth Services Officer since 2023, Deputy Dunn serves students in the Beaverton School District in a capacity that extends far beyond traditional law enforcement. In the schools, he is a leader in moments of conflict, a counselor during crisis, and a mentor during some of the most formative and challenging years of adolescence. His work directly strengthens school safety, supports student growth, and fosters constructive relationships between youth, families, educators, and public safety professionals. Deputy Dunn is formally responsible for approximately 15 elementary and middle schools, most lying within the Beaverton School District. However, he does not confine his work to those campuses. Whenever needed, he willingly responds to any school within the district to assist fellow Youth Services Officers, provide additional support during critical incidents, or cover for other officers during their absences. His willingness to step beyond his assigned responsibilities reflects both his dedication to the broader Beaverton community and his unwavering commitment to ensuring that every student—regardless of school—has access to consistent, positive law enforcement support. By consistently modeling balanced, youth-centered intervention across multiple campuses, he strengthens the overall climate within Beaverton schools. Students observe that law enforcement can be fair, supportive, caring, and invested in their future. Families see that officers can serve as partners in their children’s success and give them skills to carry throughout their lives. Fellow officers benefit from his teamwork and reliability. His presence contributes to safer environments where learning and growth can thrive. Deputy Dunn exemplifies the highest purpose of youth-focused service: he does not simply enforce rules—he teaches responsibility; he does not merely respond to crises—he guides young people toward better choices; he does not just maintain safety—he inspires confidence, goodwill, and excellence every day. His ability to blend enforcement responsibilities with authentic mentorship reflects great credit upon himself and the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, while directly improving the lives of the youth of the Beaverton School District.

Distinguished Voluntary Service Award

Purpose: To recognize an individual who gives of their time and talents to enhance the quality of life in Beaverton. Their work leaves a positive impact on those they help.

Criteria: Active volunteers dedicated to benefiting the Beaverton community, individuals who do not receive financial compensation for their efforts, demonstrated positive impact on the well-being and quality of life in the community, contributions that directly improve the local community, and sustained and consistent commitment to community service over time.

Judiaann Woo is a woman with a passion to lift up underrepresented groups. From her Board membership in the Portland Backpack nonprofit to address childhood hunger, to her Board and past President roles in Les Dames d'Ecoffier supporting young women entrepreneurs and restaurateurs (ldeiportland.com/about), Judiaann recognized and filled a gap to connect together an under-represented group of Korean-Americans who independently supported our region broadly.  Judiaann is co-founder of the Beaverton-related nonprofit KAPRO.  This organization fills a longstanding gap for Asian American Pacific Islanders. KAPRO (Korean American Professionals of Oregon) is a professional networking group for Korean Americans in Oregon and SW Washington.

Jessica is a dedicated volunteer with the Washington County Sheriff’s Office Elder Safe program, which provides victim advocacy to adults who may be experiencing abuse, neglect, exploitation, or isolation. Jessica is compassionate, patient, and has a steady presence with older adults navigating difficult times and often traumatic circumstances. In addition, Jessica is a volunteer with the Project Lifesaver program with the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, which plays a vital role in safeguarding individuals living with cognitive conditions such as dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, and autism. She provides outreach, education, and program support that help families utilize the program. Jessica’s volunteer service also extends to the Advisory Board of the Enhanced Sheriff’s Patrol District (ESPD). Her efforts with ESPD actively strengthen trust between law enforcement and the community. Her presence reflects not only service but also genuine care. Beyond her work with the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, she serves the Oregon State Ombudsman Program, advocating for residents in long-term care facilities. In this role, she amplifies the voices of seniors, ensures accountability, and upholds the rights and well-being of older adults. Jessica’s dedication strengthens public safety, enhances seniors' quality of life, and embodies the spirit of community service. Beaverton and Washington County are safer, kinder, and more connected because of her work. I wholeheartedly recommend Jessica for her exceptional volunteer contributions.

Amanda embodies the spirit of community involvement. She is a connector of people—bringing together individuals, organizations, and ideas with a shared purpose of strengthening Beaverton. Her ability to see potential partnerships and inspire collaboration has resulted in meaningful contributions that extend well beyond individual efforts. Amanda understands that lasting change happens when people work together, and she consistently creates spaces where that connection can thrive. Amanda is keenly aware of the impact her involvement can—and does—have on the community. She doesn’t view volunteering as a task, but as a responsibility to uplift others and invest in the long-term well-being of Beaverton. Amanda is also known as the person who is first to step up and say, “I’ll help.” Whether the need is anticipated or urgent, she leads by example with humility and action. Her willingness to contribute her time, energy, and leadership inspires others to get involved, creating a ripple effect that strengthens community engagement. Through her service, Amanda has demonstrated a rare combination of compassion, initiative, and vision. Her voluntary contributions reflect not only her character, but also the values of the Beaverton community—connection, service, and shared success.

Youth Achievement Award

Purpose:  Celebrate and honor a young Beaverton resident who demonstrates outstanding commitment to the city and actively contributes to the well-being and future development of generations to come.

Criteria:  The selected young person should exemplify remarkable achievements in the community, showcasing dedication and hard work. This could manifest as either being an outstanding student who generously volunteers time to assist community members or demonstrating exceptional skill and ability in a particular area through sustained effort and dedication. The aim is to recognize individuals who, through their actions, make the city proud and represent the positive potential of future generations contributing to the city's growth and prosperity.

Hailey Youn is an incredible student whose contributions in the classroom have been appreciated by her teachers. She's the kid who stops by my office every day just to say 'hi.' She's the person who regularly expresses her gratitude to teachers and staff who have helped her and is the first to hype up her classmates, even when they're not in the room.  Hailey is also an accomplished violist and plays with the Portland Youth Philharmonic. She has spent countless hours dedicated to music and has also used her talent to be of service to others. Together with three other students, Hailey founded a non-profit, Music4Harmony. The group started by volunteering to play at children’s hospitals and retirement centers and then grew their program to over 25 members, with the mission of providing benefit concerts for people in need and promoting music education for youth. Under Hailey's leadership, Music4Harmony raised over $85,000 for those in need, including individuals with Alzheimer’s, autism, children with rare diseases, victims of the Ukraine war, and those affected by forest fires and home loss. They have also organized concerts on a mobile truck for the City of Portland’s summer meal program and held library concerts to offer children and adults the opportunity to learn different string instruments, bringing music to children with limited access to live performances. Hailey also volunteers as a peer crisis intervention specialist with YouthLine, a service of Lines For Life, where she answers phone calls, texts, chats, and emails from other youth throughout the nation who reach out for help and support. She recognized the incredible need for mental health support for teens, and she stepped up to fill a much-needed role. Hailey is such an asset to our community and is incredibly deserving of recognition for her contributions.

Sophia Sakaino - In getting to know Sophia over the last 2 years, I have seen how committed she is to improving the world around her. She is a dedicated young woman with a bright future ahead. She is a top student, receiving honors in many classes and challenging herself with high-level courses; and while these academic achievements are impressive, what makes Sophia really stand out is her passion for personal growth and desire to give back to the community. Sophia is involved in a variety of activities, both inside the school and in the greater community. She works to celebrate and uphold Pacific Islander heritage, and is both a student and teaching assistant of hula and native languages. Her many leadership roles and accomplishments show a trend towards service and being a voice for others. She has taken true action by engaging in legislative processes and campaigning for organizations and issues she is passionate about. Sophia goes about achieving her goals without seeking to be recognized or celebrated. She is a wonderful human being who cares for our community, cares for others, and is set on being an agent for positive change in the world.

Wenjing has been a mentor and director in our school community, leading HOSA events and blood drives, mentoring younger club members, and coordinating tutoring and outreach for the club. In the larger Beaverton community, she has been an ambassador for HPV Youth Champions, organizing conferences and growing outreach beyond the Beaverton School District. Outside of school, Karri has coordinated multicultural festivals for her church and assisted in organizing diversity dialogues that address societal impacts. She has volunteered her time with Pacific University's Eye Van, supporting the community with free mobile eye care for underserved patients. As a volunteer for Kaiser's Beaverton Medical Office, Karri assisted Urgent Care staff with re-stocking items and providing patient support; in addition, she utilized her musical talents to play piano for patients in the lobby, providing comfort and respite. Karri has gone above and beyond to support others with her maturity, leadership, empathy and dedication to BASE and the Beaverton community. I feel hopeful when I think of Karri's impact on the world of medicine in the future!