Dr. Richard White teaches courses in the Community Development undergraduate program and International Community Development field seminars in Nicaragua and Uganda. He also teaches in PSU’s nationally recognized University Studies Program preparing students for further work in the Community Studies and the Healthy People Healthy Places clusters.
Richard’s research interests include urban social structure, social justice, community organizing and community development, international community development, and urban faith-based organizations. He is a frequent guest lecturer in seminary urban ministry courses and seminars; is a member of the board of Instituto Teologico del Oeste (Theological Institute of the Northwest); and advisory board member for Bikes to Rwanda and the NAPE Foundation (Ghana).
He is a contributing editor of Cultural Encounters, journal for the Theology of Culture. Association memberships include the Evangelical Missiological Society, Community Development Society (currently on the International Committee), International Association for Community Development, and the Society for Values in Higher Education. Richard also consults with domestic and foreign faith-based organizations on issues related to community building, community development, and intercultural relationships.
I am Abdirisack Yussuf, a sophomore student at Portland State pursuing an international development major. I moved here about 2 years ago from Kenya, and am now living with a sister in-law and a younger bro. I like the educational experience here at Portland State and the wider community in the US. If am not working, I spend my free time at the soccer field playing with friends from all over the metropolitan area. I have to say soccer is the only passion I have from childhood, running about and playing in street corners chasing the ball down the road. What are my dreams for the future? I hope to go back and help. I hope this seminar will open up many possibilities for advancement in my career and provide me with useful contacts in the continent too. I didn’t mention that if all goes well, I get to see my family in Kenya.
Ashley is a Community Development undergraduate concentrating on Community Organization and Change. In Uganda, she hopes to explore Waste Management and Recycling and sustainable economic development. Ashley also hails from Gresham, Oregon. When she broke free of her suburban bubble, she ditched her car to attend PSU and commute by bike and public transit. She is now happily settled in NE Portland. Ashley keeps busy as a co-chair of the Community Development Student Group, a field and outreach assistant for Community Environmental Services, a Peer Mentor for freshmen Inquiry, and a Board member of the Sullivan’s Gulch Neighborhood Association. In Ashley’s free time, she enjoys visiting the local microbreweries or wandering around Powell’s Bookstore for hours. She hopes the Uganda seminar can be a jumping point for further international volunteer service, and will interview NGO representatives to inform her career choice and placement.
I am Bradford. I was born and raised in Shreveport, Louisiana but decided to move to Portland, Oregon on a whim in 2003. I soon after fell in love with the Pacific Northwest and the diverse culture here. I enjoy long walks, puppies, romance, candlelight, and….just kidding! This is not a personal ad in the Mercury. I have a great sense of humor and like to laugh. I do enjoy backpacking and the summers here in Oregon. I am a student at Portland State University concentrating my studies in the field of Community Development. I have also found a new curiosity for International Community Development and plan to nurture this curiosity in Uganda this summer. I am still trying to figure out how to transition all that I am studying into a career where I can make a difference. I think this trip will be a huge help in that aspect. I hope you enjoy this blog. I think it will prove to be a great tool for you to follow us upon our journey.
My name is Hanni and I am a mechanical engineering student considering a minor in community development at Portland State University. Growing up, I learned that the world is accessible to those who have a desire to travel. My family encouraged my adventurous side and nurtured my ability to adapt to different cultures and environments. I have many interests and goals for my trip to Uganda. I hope to explore women’s rights, education, and sustainable agriculture as well as experience the natural beauty and diversity. I also hope to build lasting relationships with people I meet and people I travel with. I am excited about the prospect of merging my education in engineering with my education in community development. I realized that developing countries need technical people with soft skills and I hope I can bring that wherever I end up. Other interests include snow sports, hanging out with family and friends, hiking, traveling, and reading.
Jean: Community Development major at Portland State University with focuses on sustainable urban development, community partnerships, and creating sustainable and creative economies. I am a midwest transplant that loves all the opportunities that Portland has to offer. I am a bike commuter, foodie, outdoor enthusiast, lover of books, coffee, travel, and people. I believe that the key to a better world is with stronger communities and that great changes start with the first steps of only a few individuals. I am very excited that I am able to travel to Uganda in such an educational capacity. Working and learning with local Ugandans, NGOs, and more will provide invaluable experience and learning opportunities that will no doubt resonate for a life time.
Jessica: Chicago girl turned PSU Community Development student with an interest in sustainable food production, community health, and creative economic development. Outside of class, I am a lover of all things food and eating, running, and adventure. I can be found at the downtown farmers market or any number of food carts or breweries in and around the Portland area. I am excited that the Uganda seminar will offer exposure to local agriculture practices, an opportunity to learn more about HIV/ AIDS awareness building and prevention methods, and the ability to check out various markets and meet the small business owners that keep Ugandan communities thriving.
