Paul JacksonPaul Jackson

Athletics introduced me to people/teammates of diverse racial, ethnic and social backgrounds. This was my first experience, all of us working together as a team with a common goal. This experience taught me to respect all people equally and without prejudice.

I’ve communicated to my children and those I’ve coached that athletics teaches discipline. I believe it helps one become a leader and successful in anything one does.

Both my parents have always said, “Be a leader, not a follower.” To me, this meant my behavior should set a good example to others.

I value and am thankful for the time and dedication of the quality people that coached me in my youth. Participation helped me to develop a strong work ethic and to overcome adversity. Their commitment and guidance through athletics helped me persevere through the challenges in my life long after I walked off the playing field.

After graduation I enrolled at Portland Community College in the landscape technology program. Two years later I started a landscape health care company that operated in the Portland metro area. After running a successful business for 23 years, I sold the company to a national firm. I have since worked for several local companies in the green industry as a landscape consultant and ISA certified arborist with Mountain View Tree Service, LLC.