We rely on our board of directors to provide our agency with responsible governance and bolster our efforts to secure resources to advance our mission.
Michelle Waddell, Chair
CONTROLLER, CENTRAL CITY CONCERN
Michelle is a seasoned financial leader with a diverse and accomplished career spanning various industries. With expertise as a CFO and VP of Finance, she has effectively managed finance and accounting departments in manufacturing, distribution, medical devices, construction, and non-profit organizations. Michelle’s professional journey has taken her across both domestic and international arenas, working with companies ranging in size from $20M to over $150M. Currently serving as the Controller for Central City Concern, Michelle provides financial leadership across healthcare, housing, and employment sectors. Her passion lies in joining companies experiencing robust growth, where she not only contributes to financial strategies but also spearheads operational and process improvements. Beyond her employment work, Michelle is dedicated to giving back to the community. She generously supports smaller community-based non-profits, offering her extensive finance and treasury expertise. Michelle’s volunteer work has included organizations such as the Oregon MS Society, Construction Financial Management Association, and Breast Friends of Oregon. Michelle has been married for 32 years and enjoys travel and spending quality time with family and friends.
Jahed Sukhun, Vice Chair
PORTLAND STATE UNIVERSITY (INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY), RETIRED
Jahed was born in Palestine and grew up in Kuwait, moving to the United States in 1980 to pursue his education. He holds a degree in Computer Information Systems and a minor in Business Administration from Idaho State University. Jahed worked at Portland State University and Oregon Food Bank managing different IT departments. He also worked at the Muslim Educational Trust as its Chief Operating Officer. After working 35 years, he decided to retire in April 2022 and help where he could. Throughout the years, he has volunteered and continues to volunteer on different boards and committees ranging between governmental, equity and inclusion in the schools, and social justice issues. He enjoys meeting new people and learning about other cultures. In addition, he is a fan of travel, wood working and spending time with his 5 children and 9 grandchildren.
Kascadare Causeya, Secretary
PROGRAM MANAGER, CENTRAL CITY CONCERN
Kascadare helps vulnerable populations navigate the confusing maze of disability benefits as program manager of the Benefits and Entitlements Specialist Team (BEST) at Central City Concern and co-coordinator of the Medicaid Outreach and Enrollment Team. His benefits expertise has led to speaking engagements at a number of conferences, including the National Healthcare for the Homeless (HCH) Conference. Kascadare holds an MBA from Aspen University and a BA from the University of Washington, where he won a PAC-8 and Rose Bowl Championship as a member of the 1977 Huskies football team.
Lynn Boose
RET. CEO, COMMUNITY SERVICES, INC; ADVISORY BOARD LIAISON, NORTHSTAR CLUBHOUSE
Following five years as a lieutenant in the Navy (pre-Vietnam) and an MPH from the University of Minnesota, Lynn moved his family to Southern California to start a 30-year career with Kaiser Permanente as a hospital and medical center administrator. After leaving Kaiser, he earned his PhD at Portland State University and embarked on a 23-year stint as president and CEO of Community Services, Inc, a non-profit that supports people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Lynn operates an in-home program for his son, who experiences chronic mental health and development disability challenges. He’s also an avid gardener who brings his dahlias into the NorthStar Clubhouse each week.
Dillon Borton
VP, SENIOR BUSINESS BANKING RELATIONSHIP MANAGER, KEY BANK
Dillon Borton is a community-focused banking professional with more than 15 years of experience in financial services and nonprofit leadership. As Vice President and Senior Business Banking Relationship Manager at KeyBank, Dillon partners with businesses and nonprofit organizations to provide strategic financial guidance and support long-term growth and sustainability.
Dillon has a strong track record of board service and civic engagement. In addition to his current role on the board of New Narrative, he has served on several nonprofit boards and advisory committees throughout the Pacific Northwest, lending his financial expertise and leadership to organizations committed to social impact, education, and youth services. Most notably, Dillon served as Chair of the Capital Campaign for the Columbia Gorge Children’s Advocacy Center, where he successfully led efforts to secure critical funding for expanding trauma-informed services for children and families. His collaborative leadership style and results-driven approach helped ensure the long-term viability of this essential community resource. With deep roots in Oregon and Washington, Dillon is passionate about building stronger, healthier communities. He brings to New Narrative not only his financial and strategic planning acumen, but also a steadfast commitment to mental health equity, systems innovation, and inclusive leadership.
Tom Kramer
Bio coming soon
Executive Team
Our executive team offers a unique mix of nonprofit and corporate experience, fusing to create a mission-driven team with impact. We’re passionate about our mission and dedicated to being a force for change.