Co-Founder & Emeritus Director

After more than forty years in public and private education, Dr. Ernest Hartzog is semi-retired. He remains active as a consultant in education and in community and organizational development with his wife Marilyn. He is also involved in a number of volunteer activities…

Board Member

Shazib (Shaz) Vijlee is an Associate Professor of Engineering at the University of Portland’s Donald P. Shiley School of Engineering. He has held various positions in industry (Boeing Phantom Works) and government (Sandia National Labs and Air Force Research Labs). His experience lies at the intersection of mechanical engineering and chemical engineering applied to energy and aerospace/defense systems.

Board Member

Tiffany Dempsey is a seasoned leader currently serving as the Director of Community Relations at KairosPDX Learning Academy. She is deeply committed to community engagement, professional development, and HBCU advocacy. Mrs. Dempsey co-founded the Intel Oregon HBCU Alumni Special Interest Group, where she led annual initiatives designed to promote Historically Black Colleges and Universities and expand educational opportunities for students and families.

Emeritus Director (In Memoriam)

Kaeti was passionate and successful in developing resources for communities and groups she could identify with. Communication was at the root of her success…

Royce L. Williams is a lawyer practicing construction, general liability and casualty, business transactions and 6 other areas of law. He is currently a Senior Deputy Manager at Trimet, where he plays a key role in overseeing operations and driving strategic initiatives.