PORTLAND, Ore. - Pam Knowles, an Oregon State University alumna and Portland business leader with more than 25 years of professional experience, has been named the executive director for industry relations for the College of Business at Oregon State University.

Based out of both Portland and Corvallis, Knowles is responsible for establishing and sustaining relationships with potential employers and corporate partners to strengthen opportunities for students and alumni and also building effective partnerships to support the college's research and programs.

"Pam understands where business and education intersect and the value of the partnerships between the college and industry, business, and government," said Ilene Kleinsorge, dean of OSU's College of Business. "With the investment in this position, the connections and experience that Pam brings, and the existing relationships we have, the College of Business is positioned to have a greater impact in Oregon businesses, communities, and the economy."

Knowles was most recently the managing director for the Oregon Zoo Foundation. Previously, Knowles was a partner in the law firm Davis Wright Tremaine where she focused on employment issues for business. She was the chief operating officer and general counsel for the Portland Business Alliance for more than five years. Knowles also has served as the development and marketing director at Portland Center Stage and as the executive director for the Judicial Fitness Commission.

"I am looking forward to strengthening current relationships and building new ones to match opportunities in business and industry with our students, alumni and the college programs," Knowles said. "These relationships are valuable and important to all of the stakeholders involved."

In 2009, Knowles was elected to the Portland Public Schools Board of Directors, a group she now co-chairs. Other volunteer activities have included the board of directors of the Portland Business Alliance Charitable Institute, Nike School Innovation Fund, Oregon State Alumni Association, and the State of Oregon Commission on Childcare.

Source: 

Jenn Casey, 541-737-0695

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