Every year, Washington County Museum awards an outstanding supporter of the Museum for his or her efforts on behalf of the Museum and the community. The award is given annually at A Taste of Washington County, which showcases local foods and wines that have been prepared by some of the region’s best culinary talent.
2011 Award: Pat Reser
Born in Canada in 1938, Pat Reser moved to Portland during her high school years and then attended Portland State University where she met her husband, Al.
They married in 1958, transferred to Oregon State University, and both graduated in 1960 – Pat with a bachelor’s degree in elementary education. She later returned to Portland State to earn a master’s in special education. She taught in Forest Grove and Hillsboro before retiring from the Beaverton School District office in 1995. Serving as the corporate secretary for 13 years, Pat currently serves as board chair of Reser’s Fine Foods.
Curiosity and a desire to make a difference have been hallmarks of Pat’s life. Having been married to Al for 52 years, raising five creative and successful children, and enjoying 14 grandchildren continue to provide many opportunities for both. Whether walking the ancient roadways in Petra, viewing the majestic Terra Cotta Warriors, visiting with penguins on Antarctica or walking the Camino de Santiago in Spain, Pat and Al’s passports reflect that curiosity.
One of her special joys is experiencing the interaction of her family as they work and play together and seeing their commitment to supporting one another’s interests. A long-held goal of establishing a Reser Family Foundation was realized this spring with the full participation of the family.
Through their philanthropy and volunteer service, the Reser family has made a profound impact on Oregon State University through their support of the university’s football stadium, the Linus Pauling Science Center and the new College of Business building.
Pat is co-chair of the OSU Foundation Campaign Steering Committee, helping guide university efforts to raise $850 million to support students, strengthen Oregon and address pressing world needs. She has been a member of the OSU Foundation Board of Trustees since 2003.
Serving on several boards, commissions and task forces, 20 years in education and a recent trip to Guatemala with Medical Teams International have nurtured her desire to make a difference. She is active in supporting the arts, the Beaverton Education Foundation, St. Matthew Lutheran Church and the Washington County Museum, where she serves as a Steward. Her Labyrinth is listed on the worldwide labyrinth locator and is available to any who wish to walk.
