PGE Foundation appoints Angelica Espinosa as new board chair

Portland, Ore. – The PGE Foundation , the philanthropic arm of Portland General Electric, is pleased to announce the appointment of Angelica Espinosa as the new board chair, effective Jan. 1, 2024. Espinosa, PGE Senior Vice President Chief Legal and Compliance Officer, succeeds outgoing chair, former PGE CEO and President Peggy Fowler. Fowler served on the board for 26 years, including four years as chair (2020-2023).

"Throughout her tenure on the board, Peggy has embodied the essence of the Foundation’s mission to improve the quality of life for Oregonians. Her kindness, compassion, and integrity have left an indelible mark on the Foundation and our community partners,” said Kregg Arntson, Executive Director of the PGE Foundation.

As the Foundation steps into a new chapter of leadership, it takes pride in acknowledging Espinosa as the organization’s first Latina chair. As a native of Colombia, Espinosa draws from her own experience as an immigrant to advocate for women, underrepresented groups and individuals from diverse backgrounds.

“Peggy has been an extraordinary example of leadership, guiding the Foundation through unprecedented societal change with strength and grace,” expressed Espinosa. “As chair, I look forward to building on the Foundation’s legacy of working in partnership with the community to expand educational and workforce opportunities for Oregon’s youth.”

In addition to Espinosa, the Foundation is further strengthening its commitment to equity by appointing Serena Stoudamire Wesley and Ian Preddy to the board.

Serena Stoudamire Wesley, PGE Director of Community Engagement and Impact, is a first-generation Oregonian with over 20 years of leadership experience. Before joining PGE in 2023, she served as Deputy Director at the Oregon Department of Education Early Learning Division and Chief Cultural Change Officer for the Oregon Department of Administrative Services. Stoudamire Wesley’s proven track record as a change agent reflects her unwavering commitment to equity and community, making her a valuable addition to the Foundation.

Ian Preddy, PGE Director of Supply Chain, brings over 24 years of global executive leadership experience to the board. With a diverse multi-national background, he is dedicated to giving back through his involvement with community organizations like Centro Cultural de Washington County, where he serves as a board member.

Under Espinosa’s leadership, the Foundation reaffirms its commitment to enhancing economic opportunities by continuing to collaborate with diverse community organizations. In 2024, the board will focus on initiatives that enhance education, promote arts and creative learning experiences, and create sustainable career pathways to improve the overall quality in Oregon.