Movers of Mountains Community Awards Celebration
Movers of Mountains Gala
Mark your calendar for May 17, 2024! We will host the second annual Mover of Mountains Gala where we will celebrate the BEST of the BEST in Beaverton!
Nominees have been chosen and voting is open! Voting Closes April 30, 2024 - vote today!
Join us on May 17, 2024, at the Mover of Mountains Gala when the winners will be revealed!
We are also proud to be awarding the first-ever BACC Post High School Scholarships. Three $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
- Employee of a current BACC member
that has graduated from high school or obtained their GED in 2022, 2023, or 2024. The scholarship must be used for post-high-school education.
Thank you to all who applied! Winners will be notified before May 1, 2024.
Award Nominees
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.
As we celebrate a life of service, leadership, and profound impact, we honor a family whose legacy inspires us to reach for greatness and contribute meaningfully to the world.
We proudly announce the 2024 Living Legend Award Winner is the Biggi Family!!
Rose Merlo Biggi was brought to this country and Oregon, by her grandfather, David Reghetti, who was known as the Onion King of Washington County. In 1929, she bought her small farm as a young woman with three children and began growing, grinding and bottling horse radish to support them. Over the years, she slowly added more land growing the farm to 60 acres. All 60 acres are still owned by members of the Biggi family. In 1974, they ceased farming the 60 acres in Beaverton and began manufacturing horse radish. They built their manufacturing facility and began developing strip malls and office complexes. Rose Biggi died in 1985. Gino, one of her three children, stepped up to lead the company. Under his leadership the company expanded into making a wide variety of horseradish, mustards and other sauces. When Gino died in December of 2022, Dominic took the lead. Beaverton Foods has 100 employees making their signature horse radish and mustards, as well as manufacturing sauces for small companies under their labels. Products include Asian sauces, salsas, and dressings. They have about 100 food production clients. Small businesses that need a commercial kitchen and manufacturing operation to produce their products. 50-60% of these companies are are immigrant-owned businesses whose sales typically are at about $100k per year. Rose Biggi's own immigrant story lives on as Beaverton Foods helps these newcomers grow and prosper. Dominic, his brother, and sister own the food cart garden behind The Round on land that was part of their grandmother’s original farm, making it possible for another 31 small businesses to also grow and prosper.
Beaverton's Living Legend 2024
The Biggi Family
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.
Carlos Cortes: Carlos is a fierce advocate of the Chamber and the small businesses in our community. He's always willing to step up and help out when needed. He values the chamber and it's mission.
Donna Meeuwsen: Donna is not only a supporter and cheerleader for the chamber but her commitment to its growth, supporting members, and fellow businesses truly embodies the values central to the chamber's mission. Donna works and lives in the Beaverton area, and she epitomizes the word community by bringing people together within it. If you "need a guy/girl" for a job, Donna knows that person and very willingly shares her contacts/info. She serves on the board of directors as well as several committees such as Women in Business, Member Mentors, and Evolving Leaders, and even supports other committees in volunteering and advertising events to others. She truly goes above and beyond for the BACC!
Georgie Funk: Georgie has gone above and beyond with her contributions to the Chamber and the Community. Georgie has both chaired and served on multiple committees and also moved forward with numerous giving-back projects within the Beaverton Area. The amount of time and dedication put forth by Georgie, including being the first Chair of the Evolving Leaders and Gala committee show Georgie's drive and commitment to community. On top of this, always making her family a focus.
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.
Lanphere Auto Group: Although they have been nominated before, they deserve to be recognized and nominated to win in 2024. Lanphere Auto Group has established an excellent presence in our community. Their commitment to community engagement has fostered a positive relationship with residents and organizations in Beaverton. They make a continuous commitment to making Beaverton a better place for everyone.
Madden Industrial Craftsmen: They have been a phenomenal partner with the chamber for years. From board serves to event sponsorship they truly invest in the BACC. It's time we recognize them for all they do.
NW Natural: NW Natural is incredibly involved in the community of Beaverton on multiple levels. NW Natural is celebrating 165 years of service to the communities they serve, which includes Beaverton. NW Natural in addition to being a Visionary Partner is involved in multiple events that BACC holds including sponsoring Meet & Greet with Local Legislators; member of the Business Advocacy Council which provides a basis to act on local, state and federal governmental issues; Candidate Endorsement Council that ensures pro-business candidates are elected to local offices that impact the health and sustainability of the Beaverton business community. We thank NW Natural to their commitment to BACC.
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.
Angela Anderson: Angela Anderson, owner of Syndicate Wine Bar is committed to the community of Beaverton. She has worked to make her business a gathering place for all. Additionally, she works with other local businesses to increase the sense of community in the downtown. She is always there to help fellow business owners.
Lori Carroll: Lori is always putting the community first. She is a champion of small businesses but also has the biggest heart for everyone. Her door is always open and she will go above and beyond to make people feel welcome in Beaverton. Lori creates a unique and safe-for-all environment in her bookstore, Jan's, Lori uses her social media, location and wonderful notoriety to support fundraisers for many local businesses, causes and people. She listens before she speaks, while also helping those around her find resources, connections, and recommendations to other local businesses. She is always giving to those in need and, in doing so, reminding us all that each of us can make a difference in our community.
Monica Estrella: The Allen Boulevard District Plan, two years in the making, was drawn up by the city staff after extensive participation by residents such as Monica Estrella. She has lived in the area for most of the nine years she has been in Oregon. As a member of the city's Diversity Advisory Board, she has become an advocate for changes that residents seek. She has been a fierce advocate for the Beaverton community.
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.
Beaverton Florist: Beaverton Florist is nominated for Small Business Partner of the Year due to their remarkable legacy as one of the top three longest-standing businesses in Beaverton. Serving as a steadfast pillar of the local community, their enduring commitment to excellence and personalized service has established them as an integral part of Beaverton's small business landscape. As a cherished family business, Beaverton Florist not only embodies longevity and resilience but also fosters a sense of community and tradition that truly sets them apart.
Nothing Bundt Cakes: Carla Mayes established her first, Nothing Bundt Cakes, location in Beaverton in 2016 and during the pandemic with a leap of faith, she added a second location in Hillsboro. Carla and Nothing Bundt Cakes quickly became such a part of our community by living their mission statement of "Bring the Joy". For many of us we simply fell in love at first bite with their delicious cakes. As a matter of fact, in 2023 Nothing Bundt Cakes was named #2 on Yelp's Most Loved Brands List. We not only love these bundt cakes, but we also know that Carla and her amazing staff are more than cakes. give back to our community. As a member of the Beaverton Area Chamber of Commerce and other neighboring chambers, Carla donates her cakes and sponsors many events. She generously donates her cakes for various fundraisers for many non-profits including but certainly not limited to The Family Justice Center, to Welcome Beaverton, to various Fraternal Organizations, to community fundraisers -to where she sees a way she can support our community. Carl was once quoted "With cake, we feel we can change lives". From "bundting" businesses in our community to stepping up to help others, Carla and her team exemplify that a small business can truly be a large Mover of Mountains.
Syndicate Wine: Syndicate Wines exemplifies the essence of community-driven entrepreneurship, actively engaging in advocacy efforts and championing various causes vital to the growth and prosperity of downtown Beaverton. Through their unwavering commitment to hosting chamber events, speaking out on local initiatives, and fostering a sense of unity, Syndicate Wines cultivates a vibrant and inclusive environment. They are a well-deserving recipient of the small business 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.
Domestic Violence Resource Center: The Domestic Violence Resource Center has been supporting and empowering survivors of domestic violence in Beaverton since 1975. DVRC provides vital services and programs that truly make a difference in the lives of survivors and help keep the Beaverton community safe. Services provided include advocacy, adult counseling, child/teen counseling, one of the largest domestic violence specific shelter/housing programs in the state of Oregon and a 24/7 Crisis Line. DVRC provides all of it’s services confidentially and free of charge to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to live a life free from violence. In 2023, over 2,000 survivors were engaged in DVRC services. DVRC will remain a key resource for the community in 2024 and beyond.
Family Justice Center: The Family Justice Center has played a crucial role in providing holistic services to families and individuals that have experienced family abuse and family discord. And these services are provided under one roof, making it way more accessible to everyone coordinates services across 18 partner organizations all in one location. Survivors can come in to a one-stop shop and get everything they need. They've hit an all-time record of over 700 survivors in January and will continue to grow.
HomePlate Youth Services: HomePlate Youth provides services for the houseless youth in our area though providing basic services, clothing, and supplies. But more than this they provide a safe place for youth to gather. They are the only street outreach for young people experiencing houselessness in Washington County.
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.
Chester Lamb: Sergeant Lamb has come to many of the BACC meetings and events to keep us informed and answer any questions we have. His work with the Bike Team is remarkable. We appreciate the way that he strives to keep all of Beaverton safe!
Michel Wilson: Officer Wilson dedicates her off-duty time to the Ladies in Blue Clothing Closet, which she founded in 2015. From planning, recruiting volunteers, to driving around the entire metro area picking up clothing donations, Officer Wilson really has embraced the concept of “Empowering women through Fashion and Friendship.” Additionally in 2023 I believe she was the first officer on scene who responded and saved a 2 year old child’s life from a fentanyl overdose. She should be recognized for her strength in the field as well as dedication to the community off duty.
Trevor Nowak: Trevor recently arrived at a 2nd story apartment fire in Beaverton. He used his knowledge of the address to recognize a person was probably inside was critical in performing a rescue. Trevor has worked with Southridge High School in developing a relationship and assisting their Emergency Medical Resource class. Trevor has trained numerous probationary firefighters at our station and been influential in our FTO program. When our union's MDA team was in transition and at risk of not having an MDA fundraising event, Trevor took the lead and set a record for fundraising. Trevor set up a training session with Hearthstone to assist with the improvement in patient care and our relationship with the facility.
Purpose: Recognizing an individual in Beaverton who excels in teaching, educating, instructing, counseling, or inspiring our youth.
Criteria: This award honors individuals demonstrating a unique ability to positively impact young lives through versatile mentorship, whether through teaching, coaching, instruction, or mentoring.
Ashlee Hudson: Dr. Hudson is an amazing elementary school principal in our school district. And while I could say that about a majority of our principals, Ashlee stands out for a number of reasons: She takes the time to know and invest in her community - from the parents to the neighbors, she knows her demographics. At Kinnaman Elementary, as a Title One school with 24 languages spoken, Ashlee embraces diversity and she knows the names of all 489 students. “To elevate the voices of multilingual families” is her goal, and her mission statement is “Our students’ futures matter”. She whole-heartedly embraces community partnerships and welcomes new ideas and engagement from businesses and non-profits. Working hard over the past two years, community partners accepted her challenge to grow Kinnaman’s STEAM Night, an opportunity for students and neighbors to “touch” their future. She also sees partnerships to include parents, an integral part of student achievement, and staff are partners as well: Ashlee is supportive of her staff ideas for activities and outreach, currently hosting an Oregon Food Bank weekly food market on campus. As a mother, she understands the social emotional needs of a child and the importance of inclusiveness, and guides her Kinnaman team to use that lens everyday. Ashlee is among the Best of Beaverton.
Louise Drow: Drow oversees the only high school automotive program in Oregon to hold Automotive Service Excellence certification, a credential that streamlines students' paths into professional garages. In 2003, Drow helped develop a half-day automotive technician program at Aloha High School. Today, that program draws 80 high school juniors and seniors from across the district, and Drow estimates 80% continue on to further education or employment in the auto industry. Through SkillsUSA's auto skills competition — in which Drow once competed as a student in Arizona — Beaverton has finished in the top three in Oregon in 13 of the past 15 years. A majority of her students graduate with a job in line at dealerships and major automotive repair locations. Her commitment to training youth in a specific area not only boosts confidence and morale in a student but also prepares a young person with tools to make a difference in his/her life and society.
Shaphan Thomas: In my 23 years in education I have never seen a teacher quite like Shaphan. I have worked with him as a colleague for quite a few years and am consistently impressed by his positive attitude, never ending altrusism and willingness to help, and his commitment to education. But, they I was also able to see him as a teacher with my three children as they went through his 6th grade math class. He has a unique ability to connect with EVERY student. He makes them feel seen, unique, and special, and goes out of the way to get to know them. He has awesome communication with families. Attends night events and activities to see kids' work and support them in their extracurriculars. He runs our Outdoor School program and spends countless hours trying to ensure that it will be an amazing opportunity not only for learning but for connection for evey 6th grader. He is so amazing that when he comes into the cafeteria during lunch kids start clapping like Taylor Swift has just entered the room. He is such a unique and special individual and I am so honored to call him a colleague and friend.
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.
Joan Corcoran: Joan Corcoran has been a champion for The Reser since day one. Initially, Joan worked as a Front of House volunteer greeting and seating many newcomers as we opened our doors. During our inaugural cross-training program, Joan was one of the first to step up and was introduced to the gallery opportunities. Even though she stated she did not have galley experience, Joan jumped in to learn about our programs and has been instrumental in helping install exhibitions and assists with numerous administrative duties. She is an ambassador for all volunteers and brings the ‘can do’ attitude to share with all. She has spent countless hours (almost 400 in the gallery alone) assisting our small team to present world-class exhibitions. Singlehandedly, Joan has also helped create a strong social network between all volunteers and continues to help in countless ways. She is a strong advocate for the gallery, all the while maintaining service and support to our Front of House team and assisting with numerous Reser events. Joan is a wonderful asset to The Reser, always beaming with ear-to-ear smiles for all who come, and assisting with any task that comes her way. We are so lucky to have Joan be a part of The Reser family. Since opening March 2022, Joan has logged 545 hours (396 in the gallery and 149 in FOH), 284 of those hours are for this year alone. Joan is so happy to continuously be inspired and learn while sharing with the entire community. She truly has become a part of The Reser family.
Noah Anderson: Noah goes above and beyond to help ALL students at Southridge to either re-cover credit or to even gain extra credit to graduate early. He makes true connections with students and is a constant coach to let them know they have potential to reach their goals. He demonstrates daily compassion and commitment and never says "no".
Stephen Smelley: I wholeheartedly nominate Stephen Smelley for the Distinguished Voluntary Service Award for his exceptional contributions to both businesses and individuals in our community. Serving as the interim CEO of the Beaverton Area Chamber of Commerce then continuing board service and leadership; Steve demonstrated unwavering commitment and grace in leading the BACC board. Beyond his role in the chamber, he has volunteered time and impacted many local businesses and community members, leaving an impact on the well-being of Beaverton. He has earned the respect of all who have crossed his path. His profound influence has been felt in numerous ways, making him an outstanding candidate
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.
Erica Griffiths: I am writing to highly recommend Erica Griffiths for recognition of the Beaverton Youth Achievement Award. In my role as a school counselor at Southridge High School, I have had the pleasure of getting to know Erica well over the last couple of school years, and I can confidently say that she is an exceptional student and an outstanding, kind individual. Academically, Erica has consistently demonstrated remarkable dedication and achieved an impressive 4.24 GPA. Her commitment to her studies is evident through her consistently high performance across various subjects and she has challenged herself by taking many rigorous IB courses over the years. Erica's intellectual curiosity and academic performance set her apart from her peers. She will graduate on the Honor Roll and be recognized as a Southridge Scholar - an award designed to honor academically well-rounded students who have pushed themselves to excel in a strong and challenging four-year educational program. Beyond her academic prowess, Erica possesses a genuine empathy for others that is noteworthy. She consistently displays kindness, compassion, and understanding towards her peers, teachers, and the community at large. Her ability to connect with people on a deeper level and understand their perspectives allows her to foster a positive and inclusive environment wherever she goes. Students and staff are better for knowing her. Erica's dedication to her studies is paralleled by her involvement in extracurricular activities. Despite her demanding academic schedule, she actively participates in various clubs and organizations, where she has made significant contributions. She is particularly proud of her involvement with the DECA Business Club where she quickly worked her way up to managing the school’s Hawk Hut Cafe. Erica credits her involvement with DECA for her increased confidence and discovering her innate ability to lead and manage people. Her leadership skills shine through as she takes on responsibilities and works collaboratively with her peers to serve the school community. Erica also volunteers at one of our feeder middle schools, is manager for the varsity tennis team and actively participates in a number of afterschool clubs. Over the years, I have witnessed Erica's growth as a communicator and advocate. She articulates her thoughts and ideas with clarity and confidence. Erica is an active listener who values the opinions and perspectives of others. Her ability to effectively communicate and advocate for herself and others will make her an invaluable asset to any team or organization she becomes a part of. In conclusion, I could not give a higher recommendation for Erica Griffiths to be considered for this award. Her exceptional academic achievements, coupled with her kindness, unwavering work ethic, and strong leadership skills make her a standout candidate. I have no doubt that Erica will continue to excel and make meaningful contributions to her community, consistently making a positive impact on everyone around her.
Kyle Hanson: This is the letter his high school counselor wrote for college admission: To Whom It May Concern: Kyle Hanson’s academic talents, leadership skills and his desire to positively move Beaverton High School and our larger community forward are unprecedented within my career. Kyle was our school’s youngest ASB President and, more than likely, will be our Valedictorian this year. In addition, Kyle has taken advantage of and thrived in all of the academic challenges that BHS could offer him. However, what makes Kyle truly remarkable, is his thoughtfulness and dedication to lift up the world around him. When BHS’s long standing principal retired a couple of years ago, another counselor (only half jokingly) said that Kyle should be our next principal. Kyle's ability to find ways to utilize his maturity, as well as his organizational and analytical skills to make every room he enters better is unparalleled. He’s dedicated over 800 hours to BHS through student leadership activities that include coordinating our holiday giving program while also extensively involved at the highest student leadership levels within Key Club International. One of my favorite aspects of Kyle is how much he wants to learn about the systems and the people in the world around him. When Kyle first found out that BIPOC students were far less likely to be exposed to STEM fields, he decided to start the first BHS chapter of MESA as well as championed the district wide work of Create Invest Inspire (CIA) program. Additionally, when Kyle was ASB president last year, he coordinated with our MECHA club to increase the diversity of BHS student leadership. Kyle has demonstrated his drive as well as his ability to find intellectual challenges and excel academically both within and outside of our school. Outside of BHS, Kyle’s intellectual curiosity and the limitations of our master schedule have led him to take classes like Linear Algebra and, currently, a second year college level Spanish course at a local Community College. Last year, when his AP Physics class at BHS didn’t get through all of the curriculum, Kyle taught himself a large chunk of the class that ultimately allowed him to get a 5 on that AP test. Kyle’s humility and kindness really astounds me and the other staff at BHS. When Kyle took AP Statistics as an 11th grader (as we didn’t offer Calculus BC last year), he not only excelled in that class but he also tutored many of his 12th grade classmates. Kyle’s teachers say that he “uplifts” others by helping others as well as leading by example. One of his teachers commented that Kyle is “legit the best kid (in every way) that I’ve ever had in my classroom.” In the future, Kyle plans to further his knowledge and talents for social entrepreneurship and STEM related fields by contributing to business/entrepreneurship aspects of bioengineering. I truly can’t wait to see how the world will be changed by Kyle Hanson.
Leilani Palafox: Leilani has been ASB of Spirit and Events and a dedicated member of Mecha, and Key club and tennis. MECHA stands for Movimiento Estudiantil Chicano de Aztlán. Some topics they talk about in their meetings are overall issues they find themselves in throughout the year and how they can make events and school events more inclusive. They all make a sense of family at school. They all get to be themselves among each other and build a connection that expresses love throughout the school. Key Club is an international organization that is dedicated to serving the community. Leilani has provided opportunities for service, community building, and leadership. She works hard to ensure that voices are heard and that people are represented. She is one of the strongest leaders in the class of 2024. She is well respected by her peers and always looking for ways to improve the community and stay involved. Working with Leilani makes other people better.
Purpose: To recognize and honor Military Service individuals (active or retired) in Beaverton who, in addition to their military duties, generously contribute their time and talents to enhance the community's quality of life. Their voluntary efforts have a positive impact on the lives of those they assist.
Criteria: Military Service individuals eligible for recognition must be either active duty or retired. Furthermore, they should not be receiving compensation for the specific contributions being acknowledged. This ensures that the recognition is directed towards their voluntary and unpaid community efforts, separate from their military service responsibilities.
Jonathan Burkhart: There is a lot of glory to being the creator of a large event - there is far less being the primary executor of plans, whims, and creative ideas. For going on 8 years now, Jon Burkhart has been the spine of Pride Beaverton and the amazing event that it has become. Behind the scenes, Jon makes sure that every guest is safe, communicated with and that there are plans for emergencies, weather, and more. From building the props to picking up the trash, if there is a job to do to make the day of Pride in Beaverton better, Jon has done it without complaint and done it well. As a straight, white male, you mightn't expect the sensitivity and inclusionary mindset that Jon has, but years in the Navy taught Jon that every person has something important to contribute and that all people are valuable. Jon speaks to the military community and welcomes them to be themselves and enjoy Pride (not something historically easy to do) as well as educates ex-military members how to relate to their LGBTQIA+ children and family. There are not enough thanks to offer Jon for his invaluable contributions to making Pride Beaverton what it is today.
Ron White: Ron has organized the local chapter of VetRest as a hands-on way for veterans to feel as since of contribution to their community through building greenspaces and areas within the community. https://www.facebook.com/vetrest.org/ Ron is also a retired Army Veteran. More on VetRest from their website: "Finding Peace from the Hidden Battle" Our mission is to mentor veterans while providing farming opportunity in safe and supportive environments where they can achieve wellness themselves and produce healthy food for our nation.