Meet the Friends

Margaret Robinson, Chair

Margaret Robinson, Chair

After retiring from a 32-year career with the Oregon State Bar, I started participating at the Elsie Stuhr Center. I found a welcoming environment providing opportunities for physical fitness, social interactions, and educational seminars. By being a member of the Friends of the Elsie Stuhr Center I can support its values and funding priorities to assure that the Elsie Stuhr Center meets the needs of older adults in the Tualatin Hills Park and Recreation District.

Bio

Nancele Blake

Nancele Blake

I have a bachelor’s degree in Business and Journalism. I have been an active volunteer for many years and served on the boards of Women’s International Day and Fiesta Latina. During my career, I worked as an administrator at the Oregon Bach Festival for many years. I also served as the general manager of the Florence Events Center and as volunteer coordinator at the Grotto. I play several instruments and was in a band called Balladina where I handled all the administrative tasks. I am proud to serve on the board of the Friends of Elsie Stuhr Center because I strongly believe in the mission of Elsie Stuhr Center.

Bio

Joanne Gulbranson

Joanne Gulbranson

I spent my early years in the Midwest, moving to Portland in 1995. Prior to my retirement I spent more than 35 years in commercial property management and corporate real estate in both management and financial roles. I enjoy golf, reading and exercising at the Elsie Stuhr Center. In addition to my exercise classes, I am a member of the Friends of Elsie Stuhr and volunteer there when and where needed.

Bio

Ana Kalmanek

Ana Kalmanek

I was born and raised in New York City and moved to Beaverton for a job opportunity 49 years ago, where I’ve. I’ve resided in the same neighborhood and experienced many changes. I attended community college in NYC, but then wanted to be in the beauty business so I became a licensed hairdresser. However, life had another plan for me. My career slowly evolved from secretary to senior financial analyst for the Portland City Attorney’s Office where I prepared the budget and worked there until my retirement of 31 years. I now volunteer at the Elsie Stuhr Center because I want to help seniors in our community and enjoy making new friends in the process. My hobby is reading mysteries, and I also enjoy traveling with family to create fun memories.

Bio

Julie Martell

Julie Martell

I was born and raised in Oregon and have lived in Beaverton most of my life. I owe my love of the Elsie Stuhr Center to my father who was devoted to the Center. To honor him I'm working with my colleagues of the Friends board to make the Elsie Stuhr Center the best place it can be for older adults.

Bio

Barbara Ring

Barbara Ring

At the age of 19, I became a hair stylist and later ran my own salon for over 15 years, retiring in 2017. After my husband passed away in 2007, I became active at the Elsie Stuhr Center. It has been one of the best decisions I have ever made. The friendship and experiences I have had gave me a new perspective on life. I have loved working with incredible staff and the Friends have become like a family to me, in addition to my two daughters, two grandchildren and three great grandchildren.

Bio

Karen Stark

Karen Stark

For years, I worked to provide home care to seniors along with cleaning services. I have been coming to Elsie Stuhr Center for over 15 years, have taken many classes, worked on many events, and made many friends along that way. I volunteer when I can. The Center is a home away from home.

Bio