Today, in her first hire as Portland Public Schools Superintendent, Dr. Kimberlee Armstrong announced that Deborah Kafoury, former Multnomah County Chair and long-time civic leader, will serve as Chief of Staff.
Kafoury brings more than two decades of public service, most recently serving 14 years on the Multnomah County Board of Commissioners, including eight years as Chair. Kafoury’s first elected office was to the Oregon House of Representatives where she served North and Northeast Portland from 1999-2005. She also served as House Democratic Leader for two years.
“I am thrilled to welcome Deborah to our team at this critical time,” Superintendent Armstrong said. “With her enhanced experience in education and government, she will provide transformational leadership for our philanthropic initiatives, Climate Justice objectives, and strategic partnerships across private and public sectors.”
Kafoury graduated from Grant High School and received a BA from Whitman College in Walla Walla, WA. She worked in Washington D.C. as an aide to Congressman Les AuCoin and then returned to Oregon and helped pass the first Portland Public Schools bond in 1995.
“Advancing PPS is not just a district priority; our continued rise is integral to the city’s economic and social success,” Armstrong continued. “Deborah’s expertise will be invaluable and will contribute significantly to the overall success of our district and our city.”
Kafoury served as the CEO of Multnomah County where she set the County’s strategic policy direction and priorities aimed at serving the county equitably and effectively. She oversaw $1 billion worth of new capital projects, including a new Sellwood Bridge, the Central Courthouse and the Multnomah County Health Department headquarters. She increased investments in culturally specific organizations and cultivated relationships with organizations and individuals throughout the community.
“I am thrilled to have this opportunity to work alongside Dr. Armstrong. The last few years have been challenging for PPS and for our community. Her commitment to advancing student achievement, inspiring teacher excellence and valuing community input is exactly what we need right now. ” Kafoury said. “My number one goal is to ensure that she is successful in her endeavors.”
Kafoury is married with three children, all of whom are graduates of PPS. She will begin as Chief of Staff on July 16, 2024.
Source: Portland Public Schools