Marie Deatherage's User Info

I began working for MMT in 1992, first overseeing the Small Grants program, then becoming a staff member in 1996.  I worked in the nonprofit world for a number of years and was the founder and executive director of Parent Resources on Disabilities.  I also published several periodicals about disabilities, including the Oregon Clarion and the Bridge.  My degrees are in Geography (AB from the University of Chicago and MA/PhD candidacy/ABD from the University of Oregon), with a minor in Chinese studies. I carry maps around in my head wherever I go and am always looking for a sense of place.
 
I grew up in rural Oregon (first along the South Umpqua River in Douglas County and then in Cottage Grove) and studied Oregon extensively throughout my academic career.  I taught geography and related subjects at Portland State University, Lewis and Clark College, Willamette University and the University of Oregon.  I also worked as a researcher,  parent and disability rights advocate and journalist. I served on the Oregon Health Services Commission when it developed the Oregon Health Plan's prioritized list of conditions and treatments, Oregon Developmental Disabilities Council, Portland's Urban Forestry Commission and a variety of other committees and boards.

I'm an avid gardener, quilter, writer, reader, muser and geek enthusiast and live in the Hawthorne area of southeast Portland with my pluperfect husband, beloved son, two adorable dogs, four three chickens and quite a few koi.