Washington Trust Bank and Cascade Business News are excited to celebrate the 19th Annual Accomplished Under 40, honoring young professionals living in Central Oregon. We held the awards ceremony on October 1, with a fun mix and mingle and a quick awards celebration.
Past award recipients include many well-known community and business leaders, as well as those who tend to fly under the radar. Their common dominator has always been their commitment to community, although the way they choose to give their time is as diverse as the industries they hail from. Please take the time to read this year’s recipient profiles below. You can also find the list of all past winners here.
We received over 40 nominations this year, I believe a record number — and all were worthy — but we had to limit the number of annual recipients. Community involvement weighs heavily with the selection committee, age can be a factor, and the decisions are not made easily. Some folks have been nominated several years before becoming a recipient.
Thank you to all the nominators for bringing to light these incredible young people.
Cheers to the class of 2025 and thank you for all you do for Central Oregon and beyond!
2024 Accomplished Under 40 Award Recipients
Pat Addabbo
Executive Director
Oregon Adaptive Sports
Professional Accomplishments:
Pat began his career as a leader in the nonprofit and adaptive sports industry in 2008. Pat worked for Move United in Washington DC, then the Adaptive Sports Center in Crested Butte, Colorado, increasing access to sports and the outdoors for people with disabilities across the country. Since 2016, Pat has led Oregon Adaptive Sports through a period of tremendous growth, reaching over 3,000 athletes with disabilities through over 12,000 high-quality outdoor experiences while growing annual revenue from $300,000 to over $1.4M. Early in 2025, OAS at Mt. Bachelor was recognized as third best Adaptive Ski Program by Powder Magazine. OAS was also the recipient of the 2018 Oregon Niche Tourism Award from Travel Oregon.
Civic, Industry & Community Involvement:
- Executive Director, Oregon Adaptive Sports;
- Member, Deschutes County Bicycle & Pedestrian Advisory Committee
Specific Characteristics that Distinguishes Them from Their Peers:
Ability to build community. From leading a talented Board of Directors to welcoming the youngest of athletes into the program, Pat strives to find a common thread to inspire all to better themselves and their community through the transformative power of the outdoors.
Business Leadership Philosophy:
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” ~ Margaret Mead. Pat lives and leads by this philosophy. That even the smallest group can make a big impact when led with purpose and intention.
Brian Barks
Director of Industry Relations
Systems West Engineers
Professional Accomplishments:
Brian leads Systems West’s Central Oregon office, is a shareholder of the firm, and serves as a key member of the leadership team as Director of Industry Relations. A licensed mechanical engineer and certified commissioning provider, he was recognized by BCxA’s 20 Under 40 for advancing commissioning excellence and fostering industry partnerships that drive project success and long-term client impact.
Civic, Industry & Community Involvement:
Brian serves as President of the BCxA Northwest Chapter and sits on the OSU Engineering Industry Advisory Board. He mentors students at OSU-Cascades by sponsoring a senior engineering capstone project and advocates for energy efficiency and system optimization across the built environment. In 2025, he was selected for the Leadership Bend program, reflecting his commitment to regional leadership and community engagement.
Specific Characteristics that Distinguish Them from Their Peers:
Brian leads with clarity, authenticity and a deep commitment to helping others succeed. He has a unique ability to connect people, ideas and opportunities in ways that create momentum and drive meaningful results. Whether guiding a project team or mentoring future engineers, he builds confidence, earns trust and turns potential into progress. His leadership consistently elevates those around him and strengthens the organizations he serves.
Business Leadership Philosophy:
Brian leads with a unique, people-centered perspective that empowers others to excel. His consistent drive, belief that anything is possible, and commitment to open, collaborative communication create an environment where teams thrive. He focuses on building strong relationships, aligning purpose with action and fostering the kind of momentum that leads to lasting success.
Emily Boynton
Senior Development Officer
Mosaic Community Health
Professional Accomplishments:
As the senior development officer at Mosaic Community Health, a local nonprofit health system, Emily raises vital funds and awareness for its mission and has earned two leadership awards in her four years with Mosaic. Prior for over seven years, Emily gave of her time and talent to the mission of Breakthrough T1D, formerly JDRF, accelerating life-changing breakthroughs to cure, prevent and treat type 1 diabetes (T1D) and its complications. She demonstrated outstanding leadership by overseeing multiple events within and around the Washington DC region, raising millions of dollars for Breakthrough T1D’s mission and the T1D community. Her outstanding drive to create a community of support and strength for those living with and impacted by T1D was felt not only through her fundraising efforts, but through the relationships she developed and continues to maintain to this day. Emily’s impact on Breakthrough T1D and her vivacious spirit for helping others is felt to this day!
Civic, Industry & Community Involvement:
- Red Cross of Central and Eastern Oregon – Vice-President, Board of Directors
- City Club Program Committee – Co-Chair, Programs Committee
- Leadership Bend Alumni Association – Resource Development Committee Chair, Steering Committee
- Central Oregon Masters Singers – Member
- Franklin University Switzerland – President, Alumni Association (2022-2025)
- BreakthroughT1D – Volunteer and Cyclist
Specific Characteristics that Distinguishes Them from Their Peers:
Emily stands out for her deep, sustained commitment to community leadership across sectors. Her rare blend of strategic vision, inclusive leadership and hands-on service in disaster relief, health advocacy and civic engagement demonstrates a powerful ability to inspire, mobilize and unite people around meaningful causes with energy, empathy and long-term impact.
Business Leadership Philosophy:
Emily leads with vision, empathy and purpose. She builds strong relationships, fosters collaboration and empowers others to lead. Her approach blends strategic thinking with hands-on service, prioritizing community impact, equity and sustainability. She believes leadership is about inspiring action, cultivating connection and creating lasting, positive change in every sphere.
Jimmy Clark
Resident Services Manager & Home Care Administrator
Touchmark
Professional Accomplishments:
A member of the key leadership team at Touchmark for the past four years, Jimmy successfully transformed two underperforming departments, home care and resident services into the highest revenue generating of those departments, in the company. He oversees multiple critical departments and leads a team of 30+ direct reports and created home care gold and operational standards to enhance company practices and ensure consistent, high-quality service delivery.
Civic, Industry & Community Involvement:
• Bend Chamber – Emerging Talent AAC Vice-Chair
- Big Brother Big Sisters of Central Oregon
- Local girls club basketball coach
Specific Characteristics that Distinguishes Them from Their Peers:
Proven leader with a track record of rapid growth and meaningful impact. Known for operational excellence, teamwork, and uplifting others. Always ready to help, he fosters success in those around him and effortlessly balances professionalism with humor and approachability.
Business Leadership Philosophy:
“Lead by example, empower others, and foster an environment where people feel valued, challenged and inspired.”
Lauren Evans
Business Development Specialist
LRS Architects
Professional Accomplishments:
Lauren has a proven track record of enhancing brand identity, increasing community engagement and driving growth. She has spearheaded a company-wide website redesign, played a key role in advancing public relations efforts, and now contributes to LRS Architect’s company-wide strategic planning efforts, primarily through business development and marketing efforts for the Bend office. She currently leads business development pursuits for LRS’s Bend location by driving growth and visibility locally.
Civic, Industry & Community Involvement:
Lauren is passionate about serving the Central Oregon community. She currently serves on the Hearts Unknown Education board supporting marketing efforts. She also contributes to LRS Architects’ Charitable Giving Committee, an internal organization that actively seeks opportunities to give back to local communities. Most notably, Lauren was recently selected for the Leadership Bend Class of 2026.
Specific Characteristics that Distinguishes Them from Their Peers:
Lauren strives to lead with compassion and empathy, consistently demonstrating a commitment to excellence. She supports her peers’ goals and aspirations through her natural warmth and approachability. Lauren holds herself to high standards and has an outstanding work ethic. What makes her truly stand out is her ability to uplift others and communicate effectively with those around her.
Business Leadership Philosophy:
A true leader champions those whose voices are often overlooked and strives to create inclusive, collaborative environments. Lauren’s business leadership philosophy lies in her belief that good leadership is built on a foundation of trust and respect. Her passion lies in bringing people together to help others grow and contribute in meaningful ways.
Jennifer Graham MA
Youth Programs Manager
East Cascades Works
Professional Accomplishments:
As Youth Programs Manager for the East Cascades Works, Jennifer leads youth workforce initiatives across a ten-county region, advancing equity and access for underserved communities. She develops and oversees programs that create secondary and post-secondary education pathways, paid internships, employment-based training, and career exploration opportunities, ensuring that youth in urban, rural, and frontier communities can pursue meaningful futures. Each year, her leadership connects hundreds of young people with employers and educational institutions, breaking down systemic barriers and expanding inclusive opportunities across the region. She is also the co-founder of Summit Sound and Visuals, a thriving low-voltage company serving residential and commercial clients throughout Oregon. Jennifer’s work reflects a deep commitment to strengthening communities and building brighter futures.
Civic, Industry & Community Involvement:
Jennifer serves on the Oregon STEM Board of Directors, the Central Oregon STEM Hub Advisory Board, and as Chair of the Redmond School District Budget Committee. Through these roles, she strengthens STEM education, workforce opportunities, and fiscal stewardship, ensuring that community resources support innovation and equity
Specific Characteristics that Distinguishes Them from Their Peers:
Jennifer brings long-standing expertise across the P–20 education continuum, workforce development, and small business ownership. As someone who left high school before graduating and later earned a master’s degree, she understands that traditional systems are not the only pathway to success and that no single route holds more value than another. This perspective drives her commitment to designing alternative options that honor different starting points, expand access, and validate the diverse ways people achieve their goals. She combines technical expertise with empathy, translating policy into practical systems that prioritize both equity and implementation, ensuring opportunities are built to last.
Business Leadership Philosophy:
Jennifer views leadership as creating an environment where others can thrive. She leads with integrity, curiosity, and care, focusing on equity, honoring lived experiences, and building systems that reflect the dignity and potential of the people she serves.
Kevin Hansen
Project Manager
EC Electric
Professional Accomplishments:
A fourth-generation electrician with 15 years of experience, Kevin became a foreman right after his apprenticeship and later led the service department. He helped build Facebook’s original HQ and has grown his regional service group to over $1 million annually — showcasing leadership, technical skill and a drive for results.
Civic, Industry & Community Involvement:
• Member of Central Oregon Trail Association
- Member of Design-Build Institute of America (DIBA)
- Swim instructor
- Placed in the top three for Pole Peddle Paddle events
Specific Characteristics that Distinguishes Them from Their Peers:
Kevin is a versatile leader who bridges field and project management. Adaptable and team-focused, he mentors others through hands-on teaching. Always pushing for excellence, he drives results and builds people. In his words: “I hate losing more than I love winning” — a mindset that fuels his relentless work ethic.
Business Leadership Philosophy:
Kevin leads with a growth mindset, believing the best results come from shared knowledge and team success. He’s passionate about teaching, quick to support others, and thrives on collaboration. Resilient and driven, he takes immense pride in his work and energizes those around him to reach higher together.
Ellen Hassett
Project Architect
BBT Architects
Professional Accomplishments:
With nearly a decade of experience, Ellen brings a diverse design perspective shaped by her background in a range of projects types and scales. At BBT she leads project teams, promotes collaboration and design excellence, advances graphic standards, and serves on an internal design review committee, contributing to firm-wide quality and innovation. With a passion for continued learning, Ellen mentors younger design staff, ARE (Architect Registration Examination) candidates and helps guide summer interns in growing their technical skills and navigating activities at a design studio.
Civic, Industry & Community Involvement:
Since 2019, Ellen has volunteered with Oregon Adaptive Sports (OAS), a Bend-based adaptive sports organization that provides outdoor access and experiences for people with disabilities. In the winter, Ellen takes her background in the mountains and assists with winter ski lessons and when the snow melts, brings her mountain bike experience to help get OAS athletes on our local trails. She is also using her design skills pro bono to help the nonprofit renovate its mountain office. She is an active and charter member of Central Oregon Women in Construction, where she helps plan COWIC events and learning opportunities. A passionate Central Oregon community member, Ellen, volunteers annually with the Sisters Folk Festival, participates in regional Habitat for Humanity builds, and is an active participant in sustainability opportunities through the Bend-based Environmental Center.
Specific Characteristics that Distinguishes Them from Their Peers:
Highly knowledgeable and authentically interested in the accessibility code, Ellen is an advocate for universal design providing equity and access beyond code requirements. From the ice rink with her hockey team to her professional work, she continually emphasizes the importance of inclusion to strengthen team dynamics and relationships. Ellen is a key leader in the multi-phase Bend Senior High School Modernization project where she collaborates with diverse teams and encourages all team members’ ideas.
Business Leadership Philosophy:
Inspired by the strong, cohesive culture of a women-led firm, Ellen helps lead an internal ‘Women in Design’ group, creating a safe space for individuals, men and women, to share their experiences, foster deeper understanding and support within the workplace. She is a leader in progressing graphic standards within the firm and is an ardent promoter of a high level of design quality.
Holley Jensen
Partner, Director of Property Management, Broker
Compass Commercial Property Management
Professional Accomplishments:
I serve as Director of Property Management and Broker at Compass Commercial, where I lead with a focus on client success and team growth. In 2025, I was honored to become a Partner, recognizing my contributions to the company’s leadership and long-term success.
Civic, Industry & Community Involvement:
Former IREM Associate Member Chair, former Special Olympics swim coach, Compass Cares Charities fundraiser, and local road race participant—dedicated to leadership, service, and community impact.
Specific Characteristics that Distinguishes Them from Their Peers:
What distinguishes me from peers is my ability to manage multiple priorities with focus, adapt to diverse personalities, and maintain positivity under pressure. I combine quick, sound decision-making with an outgoing, approachable style and strong analytical skills — balancing people-first leadership with clear, strategic thinking.
Business Leadership Philosophy:
I lead by fostering a culture of support, growth, and authenticity. I encourage learning from failure, pushing limits, and celebrating progress. We work hard and have fun together, while respecting life beyond work. My goal is a thriving team where people feel valued, challenged, and inspired.
Brad Lesher
Project Manager
Sierra James
Professional Accomplishments:
In just four years with Sierra James Construction, Brad has grown into a vital member of the Design Build Remodel team. He also leads our Safety Committee, running monthly trainings for 60 employees and staying current with OSHA requirements to keep our team safe on every job.
Civic, Industry & Community Involvement:
Brad is deeply involved as a wrestling coach at La Pine High School, passionately supporting his athletes and frequently sharing his pride in their growth.
Specific Characteristics that Distinguishes Them from Their Peers:
Brad is devoted, hard-working, and eager to grow. He approaches challenges with calm, methodical problem-solving and continually betters himself as both a person and employee. On the Safety Committee, he has excelled as a teacher and public speaker, distinguishing himself as a leader among his peers.
Business Leadership Philosophy:
Brad’s leadership philosophy balances confidence and collaboration. He commands a room with clarity, as seen in his Safety trainings, while fostering teamwork and shared ownership to drive success.
Trevor Lewis
Business Developer
Express Employment Professionals
Professional Accomplishments:
Trevor has consistently been a top sales rep at Express. With over 900 locations with sales reps, he is currently the #3 sales rep in the entire company. He has been asked to speak on national sales calls and always puts his clients and community first.
Civic, Industry & Community Involvement:
Trevor volunteers with multiple groups that lead towards protecting out waters and our lands, including Neighbor Impact, High Desert Food and Farm Alliance, Deschutes River Alliance as well as Deschutes River Conservancy. As an avid fisherman Trevor is always looking to protect nature and the place he calls home.
Specific Characteristics that Distinguishes Them from Their Peers:
Trevor is a go getter who always goes above and beyond. Not only in his role in our office, but for his community and other sales reps. Trevor is a natural leader and his ceiling is still so very high. Can’t wait to see what he does next.
Business Leadership Philosophy:
Trevor believes in helping others is second to none. He leads by example and is always willing to jump in at a moments notice to help his team. If I could describe him in three words it would be humble, hungry and smart.
Celeste McGowan
CEO + Principal Designer
Iron Roots Design + Build
Professional Accomplishments:
Celeste McGowan Co-Founded Iron Roots Design + Build in 2017 and is now leading a growing team in Central Oregon. Featured in Bend Home & Design Magazine, Bend Magazine, Oregon Home Magazine, Cascade Business News and Hospitality Design Magazine. Iron Roots Design has won second place in The Source’s Best of Central Oregon Awards for two years running. Other awards include Community Votes 2025 where Iron Roots Design was honored to receive three awards in interior design, architecture and design, and general contracting categories. Celeste played a key role in the acclaimed Dear Irene restaurant project in downtown Bend and is currently spearheading the design of a prominent new hospitality destination in the community, encompassing more than 6,000 square feet.
Civic, Industry & Community Involvement:
Former youth mentor with Sonoma Valley Mentoring Alliance, Celeste now advocates for disability rights, as well as supports LGBTQ inclusion in Deschutes County. Iron Roots Design makes regular donations to COAM (Central Oregon Autism Movement), has donated services and participated in silent auctions for Friends of the Children and Namaspa Foundation. She is a former member of Business Networking International and now holds memberships with Bend Boss Babes and Bend Business Networking. Celeste is actively involved with the greater Bend community, supporting other small business owners through these networking groups, and has developed employment opportunities related to Iron Roots Design + Build.
Specific Characteristics that Distinguishes Them from Their Peers:
She brings together a sharp, creative vision and strong business discipline, building trust through collaboration and clear systems. She has developed signature design and construction processes that are unlike any other in the region. These systems in conjunction with her design expertise, knowledge of architecture, and building operations gives the design-build firm a distinctive edge in Bend. This rare combination of technical aptitude and creative leadership, shaped by her perspective as a woman in the field, brings balance and innovation to every project. The result is work that not only stands out in design but endures in craftsmanship.
Business Leadership Philosophy:
Celeste’s journey shapes the way she leads and creates. The first in her family to earn a higher education, she transformed early experiences with housing insecurity into a deep commitment to family, advocacy, and community. Leading with joy, integrity and inclusivity, she believes great design starts with human connection and thrives on thoughtful communication. She has created a welcoming and flexible work environment and wants her clients and employees to always feel at home.
Allison Phillips, M.S., CCC-SLP
Founder
Sagebrush Speech Therapy
Professional Accomplishments:
Allison is a highly accomplished speech-language pathologist and the founder of Sagebrush Speech Therapy (2023), the only adult-focused speech therapy clinic in Central Oregon. Her practice specializes in stroke, brain injury, ADHD, Parkinson’s disease and dementia, offering a full spectrum of services including cognitive therapy, swallowing therapy, speech therapy, voice therapy and language therapy — demonstrating that speech-language pathology goes far beyond speech alone.
Allison’s vision was to create a practice that delivers personalized, whole-person and whole-family therapy, designed to produce meaningful improvements in daily life. Since its founding, Sagebrush Speech Therapy has achieved remarkable milestones under her leadership:
- Grown to a five-member team, expanding its capacity to serve the community
- Opened a dedicated brick-and-mortar clinic space, establishing a permanent home for patients
- Voted Best of Bend 2025, a recognition of excellence and patient satisfaction
- Forged a strategic partnership with Spark Rehab + Wellness, enhancing patient care resources
- Co-leads a community-based traumatic brain injury support group with Aspire Physical Therapy’s Laura Ahmed, PT, DPT
- Featured on Stroke Warrior Radio, sharing expertise with a broader audience
- Delivered multiple community outreach and education presentations for organizations such as Partners in Care, Parkinson’s Resources of Oregon and Touchmark
- Maintains a 4.9-star Google Review rating, reflecting consistent patient satisfaction and high-quality care
Through her clinical excellence, innovative approach and community engagement, Allison has established Sagebrush Speech Therapy as a trusted leader in adult rehabilitation and neurological care in Central Oregon.
Civic, Industry & Community Involvement:
Beyond her clinical work, Allison is dedicated to giving back to the Central Oregon community. She served as a co-facilitator for Parkinson’s resources of organ band support group for two years. She currently serves as the secretary for the central Oregon Parkinson’s Council and volunteers regularly for stroke awareness organ. She also recently was certified as a brain injury yoga instructor with hopes to offer community classes at the practice.
Her leadership and advocacy efforts further permission to support individuals with neurological conditions and improve access to quality care.
Specific Characteristics that Distinguishes Them from Their Peers:
Allison stands out for her unwavering commitment to improving the lives of adults facing neurological and communication challenges. Beyond her clinical expertise, she demonstrates a proactive approach to expanding available resources, continually seeking advanced training to stay at the forefront of evidence-based practices. She takes an active leadership role in her community, organizing and leading volunteer-based support groups that provide guidance, education and social connection for patients and their families. Her advocacy for accessible, high-quality care ensures that individuals receive the support they need regardless of circumstances. By founding Sagebrush Speech Therapy in Central Oregon, Allison addressed a critical gap in adult-focused services, establishing a practice that is not only clinically exceptional but also grounded in empathy, reliability and compassionate leadership. Her colleagues and patients alike recognize her as a professional who combines expertise with a genuine dedication to improving quality of life.
Business Leadership Philosophy:
Allison believes that true leadership in healthcare begins with putting people first. She approaches every decision with empathy, integrity and a collaborative mindset, ensuring that the needs of both patients and staff guide the direction of her practice. By fostering a supportive and respectful environment, she empowers her team to deliver the highest standard of care while encouraging professional growth and innovation. Allison extends the same compassion to her staff and patients that she gives her own family, creating a culture where individuals feel valued, understood and motivated. Her leadership is rooted not just in operational success but in making a lasting, positive impact on the Central Oregon community by transforming lives, strengthening trust and setting a standard for patient-centered care that reaches far beyond the walls of her clinic.
Camille Poynter
Director of Human Operations
fare•well
Professional Accomplishments:
In her two years at fare•well, Camille climbed from web designer to director of human operations. She manages complex project launches like SaltSaun.NW, Trangistics and Northwest Framing Systems with impressive skill, while also mentoring and leading her team to ensure their success. Her Webflow expertise and sharp UI/UX instincts consistently deliver results that wow clients across different industries.
Civic, Industry & Community Involvement:
Through fare•well’s volunteer initiatives, Camille harvests produce for food banks with HDFFA and packs diaper donations for Every Child Central Oregon’s “Marked for Love” program.
Specific Characteristics that Distinguishes Them from Their Peers:
Where others might rush in, Camille takes a step back and finds the smart path forward. She has this amazing ability to spot problems brewing and quietly guide things toward solutions. Her team knows her as someone with gentle strength. She handles the heavy stuff while making everyone feel supported.
Business Leadership Philosophy:
Camille leads through strategic gentleness, believing that thoughtful communication prevents most problems from becoming crises. She delegates thoughtfully, taking on substantial workloads herself while ensuring her team has what they need to succeed. Her leadership philosophy is simple yet effective: Create clarity and support, then trust people to deliver excellence.
Ashleigh Schwerbel
Wealth Management Banker
U.S. Bank
Professional Accomplishments:
Ashleigh has been with U.S. Bank for 20 years and was promoted to Wealth Banker in August 2025. She’s a seven-time Legend Award winner, consistently ranking in the top 5% of her role. Her peers deeply respect her as a trusted resource and go-to for support and guidance.
Civic, Industry & Community Involvement:
- Youth Soccer coach
- Little League Softball coach
- Redmond Youth Cheer Coach — nominated for Coach of the year
- Redmond Chamber Committee raised funds for Kaye Eberhardts statue at the library.
- and more.
Specific Characteristics that Distinguishes Them from Their Peers:
Ashleigh leads with heart. Her deep knowledge is matched by integrity and a true desire to help others. She lifts up those around her — customers and peers alike — creating a space where everyone feels supported and empowered. Her people-first mindset makes a lasting impact every day.
Business Leadership Philosophy:
Ashleigh is a driven, high-performing professional with a heart of gold. She’s committed to doing what’s best for her customers and U.S. Bank. Always learning and growing, she works hard to deliver thoughtful, personalized financial solutions that truly meet her customers’ needs.
Dustin Smith
Director of Mountain Operations
Mt. Bachelor
Professional Accomplishments:
Smith graduated from Boise State University with a bachelor’s degree in business administration before relocating to Bend to pursue his passion for mountain sports. At just 36 years old, he serves as director of mountain operations for the seventh largest mountain resort in North America, making him one of the youngest operations directors in the entire ski industry. His career trajectory at Mt. Bachelor has been remarkable, beginning as terrain park day crew in summer 2013 and advancing through supervisor and terrain park manager roles before his promotion to director of mountain operations in 2021. Over his 14-year tenure, Smith has demonstrated exceptional leadership in managing complex mountain operations including lift systems, snow management, guest safety protocols, and comprehensive resort operations. He has been instrumental in the construction and development of the Mt. Bachelor Bike Park since its initial phases began in 2012, contributing his expertise to expand the resort’s year-round recreational offerings.
Civic, Industry & Community Involvement:
Smith serves on the Board of Directors for the Central Oregon Trail Alliance, where he applies his operational expertise and passion for outdoor recreation to benefit the broader Central Oregon community. His involvement reflects his commitment to sustainable trail development and outdoor recreation advocacy throughout the region. Through his role at Mt. Bachelor, he has contributed to the growth of Central Oregon as a premier outdoor recreation destination.
Specific Characteristics that Distinguishes Them from Their Peers:
Smith stands out in the demanding field of mountain operations through his people-first leadership philosophy that prioritizes employee well-being while maintaining unwavering focus on creating exceptional guest experiences. Despite managing the complex operations of a major mountain resort, he approaches his role with genuine care and accessibility. He consistently goes above and beyond to address mountain issues personally and takes time to connect with both staff and guests on an individual level. His leadership style combines strategic oversight with hands-on involvement, as he readily works alongside his team to demonstrate proper procedures and mentor staff. This approachable yet highly effective management style, combined with his deep technical knowledge and passion for mountain recreation, has made him an invaluable leader who successfully balances operational excellence with authentic human connection.
Sam Terrell
Principal Broker
Northwest Ranch Group, LandLeader NW
Professional Accomplishments:
Sam is a well-established member of the rural real estate community. He is a principal broker with Northwest Ranch Group, a real estate team specializing in ranches, farms, waterfront and recreational properties across the Pacific Northwest. With an emphasis on conservation, land stewardship and strategic storytelling, Sam draws upon a strong background in marketing high-value rural and agricultural properties.
Civic, Industry & Community Involvement:
I was introduced to Sam through the Bend NEXT Foundation’s Emerging Talent (ET) program. As an active member of the ET Ambassador & Advisory Council, he is a frequent participant in ET programming and was recently elected as Council Secretary. He also serves as the ET representative on the Bend Chamber Board for 2025, helping bridge the next generation of leaders with the broader business community. Beyond his Chamber work, Sam is the President of the Central Oregon Chapter of Delta Waterfowl, where he advances outdoor and conservation initiatives, aligning his professional expertise with his personal passion for the outdoors and community impact.
Specific Characteristics that Distinguish Him from His Peers:
Sam is thoughtful, curious and always one to bring interesting and novel ideas to the table. He is an active participant in conversations and consistently shares a unique perspective while respecting others. He has been a wonderful addition to the Chamber Board of Directors and is well respected by both his peers and board colleagues.
Business Leadership Philosophy:
Sam leads with authenticity and a strong sense of place and purpose. He has invested heavily in his own professional development through the ET program and uses those skills to mentor others. His philosophy emphasizes collaboration, relationship building and long-term impact, whether in business, community leadership, or land conservation. He demonstrates a commitment to balancing professional growth with creating value for his clients, peers and community.
Eric Webber, PE
Bend Operations Manager, Vice President
Morrison-Maierle
Professional Accomplishments:
He relocated from Montana to launch Morrison-Maierle’s Central Oregon office in July 2020. Since then, he’s grown the team to nearly 20 staff and built a strong portfolio of major regional projects – including Redmond Terminal Expansion, City of Bend Public Works Campus, Bend Air Traffic Control Tower, Redmond and Jefferson County SD bond work, Sunriver Public Safety and the Central Oregon Ready/Responsive/Resilient (CORE3) Campus.
Civic, Industry & Community Involvement:
Morrison-Maierle’s motto is ‘We Create Solutions That Build Better Communities,’ and Eric truly lives it. He leads by example, encouraging staff community involvement while actively engaging himself as a Leadership Bend Class of 2022 graduate and a board member of the Deschutes Public Library Foundation.
- Board Member for the Deschutes Public Library Foundation – responsible for raising $10M to fund three core areas of the new library construction that were not covered by the 2020 approved bond + focus on youth initiatives to develop literacy skills in children ages 0-5.
- Manages Morrison-Maierle’s Bend ‘Community Giving’ committee, which aims to donate over eight percent of our net operating profits through cash donations and/or compensated time to employees. This has equated to donations to ten-plus different local organizations and nonprofits in 2025.
- A committee member of the ‘Celebration of Community Leadership’ group sponsored by the Bend Chamber of Commerce. This committee reviews nominations for individual community leaders, organizations, or teams who have demonstrated service to the community, residents and organizations.
- Leadership Bend Graduating class of 2022. Eric was part of the team that undertook a campaign to increase participation in the City’s WaterSmart program by commercial water users to track usage, alert to possible leaks and provide water-saving tips for this vital natural resource.
Specific Characteristics that Distinguishes Them from Their Peers:
What sets him apart is his mix of sharp business instincts and a down-to-earth style. He’s never satisfied with the status quo and is always searching for smarter ways to grow. People trust him — because he listens, supports and inspires. He makes big things happen without making it about himself, and that’s rare.
Business Leadership Philosophy:
He leads by empowering others – placing people where they thrive, trusting them with autonomy and focusing on outcomes and results over rigid processes. Approachable and growth-driven, he excels in business development while remaining a trusted technical resource, blending strategic vision with hands-on support.
Melanie Whedon
Architect
TEN OVER STUDIO
Professional Accomplishments:
Melanie is a licensed architect with a decade of experience improving communities through historic renovations, community facilities, housing and wellness centers. She’s been a key contributor to affordable housing in Bend for Rooted Homes at Simpson and Poplar, as well as the Discovery West Live/Work Development. She received the John Stewardson Memorial Fellowship.
Civic, Industry & Community Involvement:
Active member of Central Oregon Women in Construction (COWIC), contributing to professional growth, mentorship and community engagement within the design and construction industry.
Specific Characteristics that Distinguishes Them from Their Peers:
Melanie is consistently praised for her organization, communication and attention to detail. Clients value her knowledge of code and collaborative approach. She balances technical precision with community-centered design, ensuring projects respect historic context while meeting modern needs, proving herself as both a trusted partner and an exceptional architect.
Business Leadership Philosophy:
Melanie believes effective leadership stems from collaboration and inclusivity. She prioritizes listening, empowering teams and ensuring all voices are valued. Her approach fosters trust, encourages innovation and results in designs that reflect shared vision and community impact.
Amanda Windlinx
Student
COCC and OSU Cascades HC
Professional Accomplishments:
After nearly six successful years in banking, Amanda decided to shift and further her career with a focus on community leadership. In 2024, she enrolled as a full-time business administration student at COCC, where she received a scholarship to participate in a study abroad program in Barcelona for the Fall 2025 term. Amanda worked with the Bend Chamber to steward and grow the Emerging Talent program, amongst other responsibilities, where she had a positive impact on our rising workforce.
Civic, Industry & Community Involvement:
Amanda is a graduate of the Leadership Bend Class of 2025, a volunteer leader of the Bend Emerging Talent program, and a graduate of the NEXTUp Leader program. Amanda is currently a Big Sister for Big Brothers Big Sisters Central Oregon. She’s also volunteered for a wide variety of local nonprofits, including KIDS Center, City Club, the Upper Deschutes Watershed Council and more.
Specific Characteristics that Distinguishes Them from Their Peers:
Amanda is highly collaborative, inquisitive and service-oriented. She embraces challenges thoughtfully and inspires others around her to be their best self. Amanda has always found herself drawn to work that develops and gives back to the community to help maintain Central Oregon as a wonderful place to live for current and future residents.
Business Leadership Philosophy:
Amanda’s true servant leader’s heart serves her well in the professional setting. She believes in helping to develop people to perform to their highest potential and in the well-being of her team. She shares leadership opportunities with others yet doesn’t hesitate to take the reins solo to drive a project over the finish line as needed. She is relationship-focused and builds trust and loyalty with others with ease.
