About Mel

I am a strong progressive who is dedicated to social justice and defending the environment.

I have a decade of experience as a political activist in Oregon championing public health and economic opportunity. I worked to get the worst junk foods out of Oregon schools, create Oregon’s Farm to School and School Garden Program, and implement an age limit on the use of e-cigarettes that will result in fewer youth smoking and vaping.

I am a fifth generation Pacific Northwesterner from a very modest background. My single parent mother worked hard to make ends meet, which taught me determination and compassion for working families.

I love Portland because of the beauty and creativity of this city. I live in the Richmond district with my two beautiful girls, aged 3 and 6, and my wonderful wife of 11 years.

Boards, Task Forces, and Alliances that I’ve Served On – Current and Past

• Board Member, Health Share of Oregon
• Advisory Committee Member, Oregon Climate Change and Health Resilience Plan
• Steering Committee Member, Oregon Health Equity Alliance
• Community Advisory Committee, Multnomah County Community Health Improvement Plan
• Portland City Club Task Force, Children’s Dental Health
• Multnomah County Steering Committee, Oregon League of Conservation Voters
• Oregon Conservation Network

Awards Received

• Fulbright Fellowship
• Emerging Leader Award, Oregon Public Health Association
• Policy Champion Award, Oregon Public Health Association
• Policy Determination Award, Children’s Dental Health Campaign
• Policy Champion, Coalition of Community Health Clinics