Portland Community College | Portland, Oregon

PCC Foundation honors outgoing board members for their service and support

Photos and story by Misty Bouse

The Portland Community College Foundation, an advocate for accessible educational opportunities and student success at PCC and throughout the region, announced the conclusion of the board terms for two members and area executives, Susie Lahsene and Karen Kervin.

Susie Lahsene, principal at Lahsene and Associates, and Karen Kervin, vice president and director of operations for the U.S. Bank Foundation, have both played instrumental roles in shaping the PCC Foundation and have made significant contributions to its success throughout their tenure.

“Their support and insights have helped propel the Foundation forward, making a positive and lasting impact on the lives of countless students and the community as a whole,” said Christina Kline, executive director of the PCC Foundation. “We are immensely grateful to Susie Lahsene and Karen Kervin for their service as board members. Their leadership, expertise and unwavering commitment have been instrumental in advancing our mission and transforming the lives of students. We extend our deepest appreciation for their invaluable contributions and wish them continued success in their future endeavors.”

Lahsene, of Lake Oswego, joined the Foundation’s board in 2015. Her strategic guidance, financial acumen and commitment to fostering educational opportunities have been invaluable in advancing the Foundation’s mission of ensuring equitable access to quality education. During her tenure as board president (2017-19), the Foundation experienced a growth of $3 million in net assets and successfully secured over $3.6 million in future gifts through bequest intentions.

“The Portland Community College Foundation has done an amazing job providing resources to students for education and job training opportunities. My passion is workforce training and helping students connect with real work that provides living wages. The Foundation, through our scholarships and connections, has supported so many on their path to their future work. It has been my honor to serve on the PCC Foundation Board and to work with the tremendous staff there,” said Lahsene.

Kline added, “Susie’s dedication and philanthropic spirit have left an indelible mark on the Foundation and the lives of students who have benefited from her support.”

Kervin, a resident of Southwest Portland, has served on the Foundation board since 2015 and has been known for her leadership, advocacy, and concern for student success. She served as vice president from 2017-19 and president from 2019-20. During her tenure as president, the PCC Foundation’s scholarship awarding increased by 17%.  During the pandemic, under Kervin’s leadership, the Foundation board approved $750,000 from unrestricted reserves to support emergency aid for PCC students.

“It has been an honor to serve on the Portland Community College Foundation Board of Directors, working alongside dedicated individuals who share a passion for enhancing access to education. Throughout my tenure, I have witnessed the impact of our collective efforts on students’ lives and the broader community. As I step away from my board role, I remain inspired by the transformative power of a PCC education and the unwavering dedication of the PCC Foundation in fostering a brighter future for all,” said Kervin.

Kline further added, “Karen’s unwavering support and tireless efforts have helped pave the way for transformative educational experiences, empowering students to achieve their dreams and make a meaningful impact in their communities.

“The Foundation wishes to express its heartfelt gratitude to Lahsene and Kervin for their contributions, dedication and steadfast support over many years,” she continued. “Their tireless commitment to the Foundation’s mission and their genuine passion for empowering students have left an indelible legacy.”

For more information, visit pcc.edu/foundation.