Hi everyone! Some of you know me as Beven, and some of you know me as Mrs. Byrnes. Some of you have known me for over 40 years, some I’ve only met this year. Because you are visiting this site, I know you are someone I care about.
And, if you’re visiting this site you also know that I have recently been diagnosed with breast cancer. Specifically, I have Stage 3 Invasive Ductal Carcinoma in my left breast and lymph-nodes. I want you to know that I truly value and appreciate your Love and support as I begin this battle…a battle I will win! You can read more about my diagnosis and treatment plan here.
Some of you may not know that I’m a Portland native and a mother to 4 (Jasper 22, Gracie 18, Daphne 4, Dahlia 4). I am lucky to be happily married to the man of my dreams, my best friend, Dylan. I am an educator, an artist, a poet and a committed community activist. Since 2012 I have served as the Principal/Executive Director of Bridges Middle School, a nonprofit independent school serving students with learning differences in Portland, Oregon. Hands down the best school ever!
For more than 25 years I have dedicated my professional career and volunteered time to nonprofit organizations serving our most vulnerable populations in Oregon and throughout the Unites States. As a nonprofit leader, I am dedicated to creating synergistic solutions to community-impacting problems. I whole-heartedly envision and actively work towards a world that views diversity as something to be valued, not just tolerated or accepted—a community where all individuals have self-worth, self-determination and equal opportunities for self-advancement.
I also believe in – and practice – the power of positive thought… Growth Mindset. I plan to tackle this battle with positivity, with Love and in acceptance of your Love and support. Thank you all for your words of encouragement, your prayers and your Love.
- A WOMAN’S HEART | A PRECAUTIONARY TALE
- Life 2.0 | Cancer Free
- Peaks and Valleys
- The Next Chapter
- Surprise Squad!