Movers of Mountains Gala
Movers of Mountains Gala
The third Annual Mover of Mountains Gala is coming up quickly! Please mark your calendar for Friday, May 16, 2025!
This is an evening of fun and festivities for the entire community! We begin at 5:30 with cocktails, appetizers, and bidding on silent auction items. We continue with a plated sit-down dinner and the presentation of awards and scholarships. We conclude with a live band and dancing into the night! This is an event not to be missed!
We are proud to again be awarding BACC Post High School Scholarships. Due to the success of our event last year, NINE $3000 scholarships will be awarded. Scholarship eligibility must meet one of the four following criteria:
- Beaverton School District graduate
- Beaverton resident
- Dependent of a current BACC member
- An employee of a current BACC member
that has graduated from high school or obtained their GED in 2023, 2024, or 2025. The scholarship may be used for any post-high-school education.
Applications are evaluated by our scholarship committee, and all evaluations are completely blind. Applicants are identified only by a number.
Scholarships have been awarded!
Join us in congratulating:
Vrasti Jain
Vrasti is a 2025 graduate from the Beaverton Academy of Science & Engineering. She looks forward to attending school at Oregon State University.
Nihitha Vimalan
Nithia is a 2025 graduate from Westview High School. She looks forward to attending Oregon State University Honors to study Biohealth Science with a Premed Track.
Shoni Jain
Shoni is a 2025 graduate of Westview High School. She plans to attend University of North Caolina-Chapel Hill for Public Health on a Premed track.
Vishnu Namboothiry
Vishnu is a 2025 graduate of Sunset High School. He plans to attend Oregon State University to study Mechanical Engineering with an Aerospace minor.
Lauren Blank
Lauren is a 2025 graduate of Sunset High School. She plans to attend the University of Oregon Clark Honors College and study Child Behavioral Health with a minor in Biology.
Emery Rea
Emery is a 2025 graduate of the Internation School of Beaverton. She plans to attend the University of Washington.
Selina Uehara
Selina is a 2025 graduate of Beaverton Academy of Science and Engineering. She plans to attend the University of Minnesota – Twin Cities University Honors Program.
Misha Nasarpuri
Misha is a 2025 Sunset High School graduate. She plans to attend Boston University.
Ashvika Singhal
Ashvika is a 2025 graduate from Sunset High School. She looks forward to attending Princeton University in the fall.
The voting is CLOSED! Winners have been chosen! Join us at the Gala to see who won and to celebrate ALL of our nominees! All nominees are listed below, please take a moment to enjoy their contributions to our community. We thank all of them for what they do to make Beaverton the Best in the West! Now it's time to vote! We invite you to join us on May 16, 2025, at the Mover of Mountains Gala, we will present the awards "Academy Awards Style".
Purpose: In a world where greatness is measured by both deeds and character, we honor an individual whose life is an extraordinary tapestry of service and leadership.
Mayor Lacey Beaty is a powerhouse of leadership, blending passion, purpose, and a deep commitment to making Beaverton an even better place to live. As the city's first female mayor, elected in 2020, she’s been shaking things up and driving real change! From making housing more affordable to improving services for veterans and turning Beaverton into a more bike- and pedestrian-friendly city, she’s all about creating a community where everyone can thrive.
A proud U.S. Army veteran who served in the Iraq War, Mayor Beaty is a fierce advocate for veterans' rights and has taken her mission to the state and national stages. She played a key role in passing Oregon’s HB 2295, which gives veteran-owned businesses a leg up in state contracting. Plus, her advocacy helped make significant changes to housing vouchers for veterans, proving that she’s a leader who gets things done.
But Mayor Beaty’s vision doesn’t stop there. She’s working hard to build a Beaverton where families of all backgrounds can live, work, and grow. She’s all about sustainability, accessibility, and making sure that Beaverton remains affordable and inclusive for everyone. Her dedication to her community has earned her a spot on the U.S. Conference of Mayors’ Advisory Board, giving her a seat at the table for some of the nation’s most important policy discussions.
Beyond her work as mayor, Mayor Beaty’s journey from military service to public service is a testament to her commitment to others. She’s working tirelessly to expand affordable housing and ensure that everyone, especially those experiencing homelessness, has the opportunity to live with dignity. Thanks to her leadership, Beaverton has secured millions in state and federal funding to fuel these transformative efforts.
With Mayor Beaty at the helm, Beaverton isn’t just prepared for the future – it’s leading the way with progress, inclusivity, and a strong sense of community for all.
Beaverton's Living Legend 2025
Mayor Lacey Beaty
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.
Donna Meeuwsen - Donna Meeuwsen- REALTOR® eXp Realty, LLC
As a true Chamber cheerleader, Donna arguably has dedicated more time over the past years than anyone else—second only to the CEO & staff of course—to supporting the Chamber. Known and loved by everyone, she attends numerous events, promotes Chamber businesses, and embodies the spirit of community! She is always ready to help members make connections with the people they need to make their business stronger. Her extensive involvement includes serving on the Board of Directors, participating in Women in Business, Evolving Leaders, and spearheading the Member Mentors program.
Donna takes the welcoming of our newest members to heart! Let’s make this the year Donna finally gets the recognition she deserves as Chamber Member of the Year!
Golden Valley Brewery & Restaurant – Beaverton
Golden Valley Brewery and Restaurant in Beaverton offers a delightful dining experience with craft beers and delicious food, all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, including produce from their own farm, Angus Springs Ranch. They foster strong community engagement, participation in local events, and support for charitable causes. They prioritize sustainability with practices like energy conservation, waste reduction, and sourcing ingredients locally to reduce their carbon footprint. Golden Valley also focuses on employee well-being, offering competitive wages, benefits, and opportunities for professional growth while encouraging staff to volunteer in community service. Their commitment to quality is evident in their handcrafted beers and farm-to-table menu. Customer satisfaction is a key focus, with positive reviews highlighting their friendly staff and excellent service. Additionally, they advocate for affordable housing initiatives, further showing their commitment to social responsibility.
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.
Mark Foster
Mark is the owner of Raindrop Taphouse. He is the first to jump in to support and uplift other local businesses to thrive, feel seen and display their work. He uses his business to support the community! He's all about community and collaboration while also fostering safety and doing what's right. I'm so grateful to have him as a community member! He's one of the rare gems of the world.
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.
JMI Limousine & JMI Insurance
Owned and operated by a native Oregonian, Johnny Meekes, JMI is always a part of any event where the chamber needs transportation! Their donations go above and beyond! Additionally, they have hosted the BACC in their space and are always ready and willing to help make connections. Let’s not forget the Golf Outing, theirs is the station not to be missed.
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.
Pride Beaverton
Pride Beaverton is dedicated to supporting the LGBTQIA+ community in Beaverton, Oregon, with a focus on empowering LGBTQIA+ youth and creating an inclusive environment. As a valued member of the Beaverton Area Chamber of Commerce, they have significantly contributed to improving the community. Pride Beaverton has a strong impact on the local community by fostering unity through inclusive events and programs. They provide vital support and resources for LGBTQIA+ youth, helping them navigate their identities and feel valued. The organization also encourages community involvement through volunteer opportunities, strengthening connections and ownership. They offer educational programs that promote understanding and acceptance of LGBTQIA+ issues, and they support local businesses by providing event exposure. Additionally, Pride Beaverton advocates for the rights of the LGBTQIA+ community and partners with local organizations to create lasting change. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, they rely on donations and community support to fund their initiatives. Their work promotes love, diversity, and inclusion, making them a vital part of Beaverton. Thank you for considering them for this nomination.
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 DaNeshia Barrett Beaverton Police Department
Sgt DaNeshia Barrett stands out in the Beaverton Police Department above most with her work ethic and attention to detail. Sgt Barrett spent 5 years previously in the community services division actively working on community outreach. Sgt Barrett now supervises the Beaverton Mountain Bike team and works diligently with her team each day to address issues surrounding houselessness. Additionally, Sgt Barrett champions law enforcement for women. She is one of the first to reach out to all new recruits regardless, but she makes it a point to offer words of advice, encouragement, and guidance for women entering this profession. This has yielded her relationships of trust amongst other women in blue that have led to them coming to her for advice in times of need. Sgt Barrett also is one of the three women in Ladies in Blue: a nonprofit organization founded by last year's award winner, Michel Wilson. Sgt Barrett gathers clothing throughout the year from members of the public and Ladies in Blue then hold an annual clothing giveaway for women/families in need within our community. Sgt Barrett also plays a role at the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST) sitting on a board that reviews and oversees matters related to misconduct by any officer within the state of Oregon. Sgt Barrett also leads our department within the Honor Guard and performs at various details within the state. Sgt Barrett also plays a role within our department for supporting and working with Fallen Officers and their families. Her efforts are far reaching and long-lasting within our community, our state, and even in the personal lives of those she works with. It is my honor to formally nominate Sergeant DaNeshia Barrett for this year's Public Safety 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.
Patricia Woffinden - MVP Dance Elite
Patti has been an active member of the Beaverton community for over 18 years. Throughout this time, she has demonstrated exceptional leadership and passion for supporting Beaverton youth. Her dance programs and initiatives have not only provided essential resources but also created a nurturing environment where young people can thrive. Patti’s work has transformed the landscape for many young people in Beaverton and the surrounding communities. She has built a Nationally recognized dance program in Beaverton that has won countless awards and mentored many dancers to pursue their dreams in both college and the professional level. She has instilled a sense of pride in the people she’s’ mentored, creating a place where youth build confidence, develop life skills, and explore career opportunities. To sustain her programs, Patti has successfully led fundraising campaigns that have garnered substantial support from local businesses and residents alike—ensuring continued access to vital movement resources for our youth driving self-confidence, and improving academic success. Patti exemplifies what it means to be a dedicated leader committed to uplifting the next generation. Her tireless efforts have made a lasting difference in the lives of many youths in Beaverton. I wholeheartedly believe she deserves this award as recognition of her invaluable contributions to our community's future leaders.
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.
Emma Winkel
Emma serves as our most reliable and helpful AVID tutor at Aloha High School. Emma supported students with their math and physics homework and helped with ACT and SAT preparation. Students commented several times about how helpful she was because of her kindness, patience, and competence. Emma is a great communicator and always follows through on her commitments. Emma’s dedication and patience are truly remarkable. Whether working with students who are struggling to grasp basic concepts or those aiming for higher-level proficiency, Emma has an exceptional ability to break down complex problems into manageable steps. This approach not only helps students understand the material but also boosts their confidence, making them feel empowered and capable in their math skills. In addition to their instructional abilities, Emma is incredibly helpful and willing to go above and beyond to ensure students succeed. Their genuine interest in each student’s academic growth is evident in their consistent follow-up and positive feedback, motivating students to strive for their best. What truly sets Emma apart is their immense flexibility. Emma walks into the fire ready to help in any way possible. Whether helping with homework assignments, test preparation, or reinforcing lessons taught in class, Emma consistently makes themselves available and adjusts their tutoring approach based on the specific goals and learning styles of each student. Their willingness to work with a diverse group of students and accommodate different learning needs makes them an invaluable asset to the AVID program.
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.
Marcella Tacker - Southridge High School
Marcella Tacker is an exceptional senior at Southridge High School, known for her resilience, compassion, and leadership. As president of the Black Student Union (BSU), she has transformed the club, organized impactful events, and fostered a sense of empowerment. Marcella has also played a key role in student government, leading school-wide assemblies with poise and inclusivity. Despite facing challenges, such as a concussion in 2023 that impacted her health, Marcella has balanced her academic and extracurricular commitments with determination. A first-generation college student, Marcella plans to pursue a career in education to address the teacher shortage and inspire future generations. Her passion for dance, which she has nurtured since childhood, will lead her to minor in dance while continuing to share her artistry. Beyond her achievements, Marcella’s kindness and mentorship make her a trusted role model among peers and staff. In sum, Marcella’s resilience, leadership, and character will continue to impact our community and beyond.
Purpose: In a world where greatness is measured by both deeds and character, we honor an individual whose life is an extraordinary tapestry of service and leadership.
Retired Marine Corps recruiter Michael Eschete continues to serve his community with the same dedication he brought to his military career. A steadfast advocate for veterans in Washington County, especially in Beaverton, he has been instrumental in bridging the gap between the military, education, and local businesses. Michael connected the Marine Corps and Oregon National Guard with Westview High School, enabling leadership camps and civics classes for students. He strengthened ties between military and civilian leaders to expand the Portland Rose Festival and Fleet Week events. His efforts also facilitated partnerships between industry leaders and STEM programs at Aloha and Lincoln High Schools, opening new opportunities for students. Beyond education, Michael played a key role in organizing a community career fair with the National Guard in Forest Grove and was pivotal in coordinating the 2-218 Field Artillery unit’s mobilization ceremony at Pacific University. His leadership helped secure a larger venue for the American Legion’s Veterans Day event at SW Bible Church, ensuring greater community participation. Currently, Michael is developing a “Joint Operations” manual to unite veteran community members, providing purpose and connection to those no longer in uniform. His ongoing efforts to bring together veterans groups, business leaders, and community members continue to strengthen Beaverton’s sense of unity and shared purpose. His dedication exemplifies selfless service and makes him a deserving recipient of the Distinguished Military Contribution Award.
Distinguished Military Contribution Award 2025
Michael Eschete