Women’s History Month

This month, we are commemorating and encouraging the study and celebration of women’s vital role in American history. We are bringing that conversation to the local space with Dee Walsh, Pamela Benoit, and Lisa Bates.

Pamela Benoit is REACH’s Chief Operating Officer. In this interview she offers advice for young professionals and insight into her entry into housing.

Dee was REACH’s CEO from 1988 to 2012. She started with a staff of 13 people and REACH grew to 100 staff members at the time of her departure. Now she works with Mercy Housing as their Executive Vice President/COO. With over 40 years of experience in housing, Dee shares her insights around how things have changed and the elephants in the room are still not being addressed.

Lisa Bates is an Associate Professor at Portland State University in the Toulan School of Urban Studies and Planning and is Portland Professor in Innovative Housing Policy. She is also affiliated with PSU’s Black Studies department.