Join the Conversation.
For over 60 years, the Public Affairs Forum has been bringing together community leaders, members, and guests who care about what happens in Washington County, the Metro region, and our state.
ABOUT US
We provide a neutral platform for the open exchange of ideas on important civic matters, stimulating thinking and promoting informed public policy discussions.
Our History
Founded in 1956, we have a long-standing tradition of fostering community engagement and civic participation.
Our Values
We are committed to providing a welcoming and inclusive space for all voices to be heard.
Monthly Meetings
Join the Conversation on Public Affairs
The Washington County Public Affairs Monthly Forum is where community leaders and residents connect to discuss public policy issues impacting our county and beyond. We foster open dialogue and diverse perspectives in a neutral setting.
While we present a variety of viewpoints, the opinions expressed by our speakers are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Forum.
WHEN
2nd Monday of each month (September - June)
12pm-1pm
Membership
Become a Member
Support our mission and enjoy the benefits of membership, including the ability to:
Ask questions at meetings
Access recordings anytime
Join exclusive networking opportunities
Membership
Dues
$50 /year
Enrolled student
$15 /year
Individual
Micro Business (<10 employees)
$100 /year
Small business (11-100 Employees)
$150 /year
$250 /year
Large business (100+ Employees)
$150 /year
Nonprofit, Government or Education
Partner Organizations & Businesses
2024-2025
Meet our Board
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![Bruce-Starr]()
Bruce Starr | Past President
Bruce Starr, a lifelong Oregonian and dedicated public servant, served over 20 years in Oregon’s State House and Senate, championing conservative values and transportation advancements like the Jobs and Transportation Act. A Hillsboro native and Portland State graduate, Bruce is also a small business owner and Dundee City Councilor. He and his wife Rebecca are active community members and strong Christians, proud parents of two adult children.
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![cate-arnold]()
Cate Arnold | President
Cate Arnold, a former Beaverton City Councilor with 16 years of service, is passionate about building healthy, efficient communities. A Houston native, Cate worked on NASA's Space Shuttle program before moving to Oregon in 1985. She has held leadership roles in local organizations, from Girl Scouts to Habitat for Humanity projects. Now an empty nester, she continues to champion informed decision-making and community engagement through her role with the Forum.
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![Eric-Schmidt]()
Eric Schmidt | Vice President
Eric Schmidt, a Washington County resident since 1983, is a retired journalist and policy manager. His career included work as a news anchor/reporter and as a communications manager for the Association of Oregon Counties. Since retiring, Eric produces and hosts community affairs programming for TVCTV. A Beaverton resident, he enjoys life with his wife, Suzann, and their Schnauzers, Dieter and Schatzie, while remaining active in local civic efforts.
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![Cecilia-Giron]()
Cecilia Giron | Treasurer
Cecilia Giron, founder of Giron & Associates, specializes in culturally specific coaching and community engagement. With over 20 years of leadership in equity-focused initiatives, she has impacted countless Latinx families and youth across Oregon. A recipient of the “Women of Achievement Award,” Cecilia collaborates with nonprofits and schools to create culturally relevant programs. Originally from Oaxaca, Mexico, she continues to serve through advocacy and recovery efforts for underserved communities.
LinkedIn -
![miguel-cholula]()
Miguel Cholula | Director '26
Miguel Cholula is an Education and Training Manager at PBDG, supporting small businesses across Oregon. With a background in education and community engagement, including roles at Bridging Cultures and the Hillsboro School District, Miguel is dedicated to fostering collaboration and economic development. He is a former board member of Adelante Mujeres and an active community volunteer.
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![karla-reyes]()
Karla Reyes | Director '25
Karla Reyes is a Cloud Platform Release Manager at Plume Design, bringing extensive experience in software development and release engineering from Tesla, Nike, and Intel. With a passion for diversity in tech, she leads initiatives supporting Hispanic advocacy and women in technology, combining her technical expertise with a commitment to inclusion.
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