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Nancy Conrath MAT ’65

Nancy Lawson Conrath MAT ’65, May 11, 2004, in Gresham, Oregon. Nancy received a bachelor’s degree at Willamette University in Salem, Oregon, and married Jim Gay in 1951. Both were teachers in Oregon schools before they moved to Portland, where she taught art at David Douglas High School. After earning a master’s at Reed, Nancy worked as an instructor and assistant dean in arts and humanities at the newly created Mt. Hood Community College. She was later appointed associate dean of community education—a passionate interest. She endeavored to paint, write poetry, and to support her love of music by participation in the Portland Symphonic Choir and her church choir. Nancy completed graduate work at Stanford University in 1977, after which she began a career with the Los Angeles Community College District. From a position as a research consultant for educational planning and development, she advanced to director of research, planning, and analysis. She retired in 1991, and moved to Gresham, where she was a member of the Gresham Arts Committee, the Metro Arts Council, and the East Metro Arts and Culture Council. A champion for showcasing local art, Nancy built her retirement home with gallery space. Survivors include a son, three grandchildren, and two brothers. One son predeceased her.

Appeared in Reed magazine: November 2004

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