Portland Trojan Network

The Portland Trojan Network brings together USC alumni, parents and friends from the Portland area to deepen their connection to the university and the Trojan Family. A board, led by co-chairs, works closely with a dedicated USCAA staff liaison to deliver high-impact career development experiences, host engaging events that celebrate Trojan pride and raise money for scholarships for local USC students.

Whether you’re looking to make valuable connections, volunteer your energy and expertise, support the next generation of Trojans, attend events or make new friends, the Portland Trojan Network provides all of these opportunities and more — right in your own backyard.

We look forward to meeting you!

Upcoming Events

The Portland Trojan Network hosts gatherings and meet-ups throughout the year — each one offering a chance to connect, learn and celebrate with fellow Trojans.

Looking to add to the calendar? Host an alumni meet up in your neighborhood!

Stay Connected

There are so many ways to continue building your local Trojan Family connection and stay close to campus — wherever you are! Here are a few places to start:

Contact Your Network

Looking to learn more? Email us at portlandtrojannetwork@alumni.usc.edu.

Tap In on Social Media

We’ll be launching some Portland-specific channels in the coming months, stay tuned!

In the meantime, be sure to follow @USCAlumni for more on all things Trojan Family!

Portland Network Board Members

Kathleen Karl ’70
Co-Chair, Portland Trojan Network

Jeff Okita ’08
Co-Chair, Portland Trojan Network

A Message From Your Co-Chairs

Hey, Portland Trojans! 

We’re Kathleen P. Karl and Jeff Okita, and we’re excited to serve as your Portland Trojan Network Co-Chairs. 

Our vision is to transform this network into a vibrant, supportive community where Trojans feel confident turning to each other for connection, career support and ways to give back. We believe local engagement is essential to keeping the Trojan spirit strong, and we’re eager to build an enthusiastic board that brings meaningful, innovative programming to Portland.

We already have a great lineup in the works, including wine tastings, pickleball, bowling, baseball outings and guest speakers covering topics like business, AI and sports, so stay tuned!

Fight On!

Kathleen P. Karl ’70 and Jeff Okita ’08
Co-Chairs, Portland Trojan Network

Career
Aresh Irajpanah

Communications
Yvonne Ngai-Fodge
Micah Williams

Engagement
Shanee Michaelson

Philanthropy
Edward Querfeld

Portland Resource Circle Members

Resource circle members are trusted ambassadors and valued partners who bring their expertise, energy and support to their local Trojan networks. Whether you’re sharing insights, opening doors or lending a hand, your contributions help strengthen the Trojan community and elevate regional engagement.  

Annie Huang
Mark McMahon
Garth Sheriff

Interested in Joining the Resource Circle?

Want to make a meaningful impact without the full-time commitment of serving on the Portland Trojan Network executive team? Look no further! As a resource circle member, you’ll:

Sound good? Join the movement by submitting an application today!

Scholarship Support

The Portland Trojan Network believes in lifting up the students in our own backyard. Your generosity directly funds scholarships for local Trojans, helping them manage tuition costs and realize their USC dreams.

group of undergraduate students walking outdoors on campus
Latino Alumni Association students
USC students cover the map

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Portland Trojan Network and do I need to become a member?

As a member of the USC Alumni Association, you’re already part of the Regional Trojan Networks! Regional Trojan Networks are groups of localized alumni leaders who build USC networks locally, and everyone is welcome to participate in the events and programs.  

I just moved to Portland. How can I get information about what’s happening?

As an alum, you’ll automatically receive email information about upcoming events and opportunities to connect with Portland Trojans! All you have to do is make sure your address is up-to-date in the FightOnline alumni portal.

What other regions have Trojan Networks?

In Spring 2026, the USC Alumni Association launched networks in the San Francisco Bay Area, Chicago, Colorado, Portland, New York, San Diego, Seattle and Washington, D.C. Additional networks will be launched in late 2026 in areas including Atlanta, Boston, Honolulu, Las Vegas, Miami, Texas, Philadelphia and Phoenix! If you’re on the road in one of those cities, be sure to tap in!

I want to be involved, but I don’t have time to commit to a leadership role. Are there other opportunities to volunteer? 

We’re always looking for resource circle members to serve as trusted ambassadors and partners who can share their time and expertise as needed. Check out the “Resource Circle Member” section for more information.

I want to be involved, but I’m not sure how. Where can I go?

If you’ve read through the volunteer opportunity information and still have questions, please contact your Regional Trojan Network co-chairs to explore opportunities.