The Kandie Starr Foundation Board Members

 My sister Kandie was one of my biggest supporters and the kind of person who showed up for me in every way. Eleven years my senior, she was more than just a sister—she was a mentor, a steady presence who believed in me when I struggled to believe in myself. In my mid-20s, as a young mother with limited higher education, it was Kandie who

 My sister Kandie was one of my biggest supporters and the kind of person who showed up for me in every way. Eleven years my senior, she was more than just a sister—she was a mentor, a steady presence who believed in me when I struggled to believe in myself. In my mid-20s, as a young mother with limited higher education, it was Kandie who encouraged me to take a leap and enroll at Clackamas Community College. I was terrified I wouldn’t finish, but she stood beside me with unwavering support. One of my most treasured memories is the class we took together at CCC—sharing that experience with her is something I’ll hold close forever. As a student on the same campus where Kandie worked, I had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the deep care she poured into her students. She met each person where they were in life. You could feel her passion when she spoke. She loved her work fiercely. Kandie was there to see me walk across the stage at graduation, alongside many of the students she had inspired. Today, I carry her legacy forward by helping others reach that same milestone. This foundation means everything to me—it’s how I keep her spirit alive and stay close to her by continuing the incredible work she loved so much. 

Serving as a board member of The Kandie Starr Foundation is both a profound honor and a deeply personal commitment. My involvement is not only rooted in a belief in the foundation’s mission, but also in the privilege of having known Kandie Starr personally. Kandie was more than just my sister-in-law, she was like a true sibling to me, som

Serving as a board member of The Kandie Starr Foundation is both a profound honor and a deeply personal commitment. My involvement is not only rooted in a belief in the foundation’s mission, but also in the privilege of having known Kandie Starr personally. Kandie was more than just my sister-in-law, she was like a true sibling to me, someone whose presence and influence left a lasting impact on my life.

Our bond was forged through a shared passion for sports. We were both inspired by the discipline, resilience, teamwork, and competitive spirit that define athletic pursuits. For us, sports served as a metaphor for life: a field where individuals from all walks of life—regardless of background, race, or gender, come together to strive toward a common goal. This sense of unity and purpose resonated deeply with us both, and it reflects the very essence of the foundation’s values.

As someone who grew up immersed in athletics and later served my country as a military veteran, I have always carried the mindset of perseverance and commitment. Kandie understood this about me. She took the time to learn about my life experiences and the many challenges that shaped who I am. I remember one conversation in particular that changed my life. She asked me why I had started college but never finished my degree. I explained that “life” had gotten in the way, working full-time, raising a child, and managing the responsibilities of marriage had made it feel impossible. Her response was simple yet powerful: “Why would you start something and just quit? If getting your bachelor's degree is your goal, then just do it.”

Those words stuck with me. They were a call to action, a reminder that excuses are often just fear in disguise. Kandie believed in me at a time when I had nearly given up on myself. She motivated me with the same unwavering support and encouragement that she extended to so many others. The countless hours we spent watching sports together weren’t just for entertainment, they were moments of inspiration, watching people who refused to quit. That spirit of determination is exactly what Kandie embodied.

Today, I am proud to say that I achieved my goal of earning a college degree. I did it not only for myself but also for my family, and with Kandie’s belief in me lighting the way. Her legacy lives on through the foundation, and I am humbled to help carry that legacy forward. Being part of The Kandie Starr Foundation allows me to honor her memory by empowering others to pursue their dreams, just as she empowered me to pursue mine. In every effort we make to support individuals on their educational or personal journey, I see Kandie’s influence. And that, to me, is the greatest privilege of all.

My niece was not only family—she was one of my best friends. She made the world a better place through her unwavering dedication to her students and to everyone fortunate enough to know her. Kandie believed deeply in helping people reach their full potential, and she never let anyone fall behind. Her kindness, strength, and commitment tou

My niece was not only family—she was one of my best friends. She made the world a better place through her unwavering dedication to her students and to everyone fortunate enough to know her. Kandie believed deeply in helping people reach their full potential, and she never let anyone fall behind. Her kindness, strength, and commitment touched countless lives. We created this foundation not only to honor her legacy but to ensure that her work continues—supporting students just as she always did. Though she is no longer with us physically, her presence is felt everywhere. This foundation means so much to me because it allows students at Clackamas Community College to continue feeling Kandie’s support and belief in them. Even though she can no longer be there in person, her spirit will continue to lift others up, just as she always did.