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Karis Stoudamire-Phillips is Vice President of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion and Community Initiatives at Moda Health and Delta Dental of Oregon, leading statewide DEI and community engagement across Oregon and Alaska. She serves as Chair of the Multnomah Exposition Recreation Commission and Board Chair of All Hands Raised.

Cheryl L. Chandler-Roberts is the founding Executive Director of the African American Alliance for Homeownership (AAAH), a HUD-approved nonprofit in Portland. With over 35 years in nonprofit housing, she has been a leading advocate for financial equity and homeownership, guiding AAAH to serve more than 10,000 individuals, distribute over $1.5 million in foreclosure assistance, and support first-time homebuyers.

Renée Watson is a #1 New York Times bestselling, award-winning author whose work has reached over one million readers. A Portland native, she is known for Piecing Me Together and Black Girl, You Are Atlas, and for centering the experiences of African American girls and women. An educator and arts activist, she has spoken internationally and serves on the Education Advisory Council for the Academy of American Poets.

Leslie Goodlow is a lifelong Portland resident and equity-driven public servant with over 30 years of leadership. She serves as Director of Equity & Business Operations at the Portland Housing Bureau and helped lead the nationally recognized N/NE Neighborhood Housing Strategy addressing historic displacement. She made history as the first African American president of the Portland Rose Festival Foundation during its Centennial Celebration.

Valerie Yvette Peterson has been named Executive Producer of Portland’s 2026 MLK Jr. “Keep Alive the Dream” Tribute, a long-running event celebrating civil rights and community empowerment.

We are deeply grateful to everyone who came together to honor the life and legacy of our beloved Mr. Michael “Chappie” Grice. Your presence, love, and shared stories filled the celebration of life with warmth, remembrance, and community spirit, just as he would have wanted. It was moving to see so many people whose lives he touched gather in reflection and joy. Thank you for standing with us to celebrate a ‘Giant’ among us, and for carrying forward the values of community, ex

In recognition of Michael "Chappie" Grice’s remarkable service and lasting contributions, Director Michelle DePass will deliver a proclamation in his honor at the board meeting on September 9th at the Dr. Matthew Prophet Education Center in Portland, where the community is invited to join in celebration.

The World Arts Foundation, Inc's 2025 Lifetime Achievement Awardees being honored this year represent a remarkable range of leaders