Nadene Duffield, who has served on the Clackamas Education Service District Board of Directors for nearly 30 years, was honored during the board’s June 18 meeting for her lifetime commitment to education, and her advocacy for supporting the needs of traditionally underserved children.
Duffield joined the board in 1996, and will end her tenure as the current board’s longest-serving member on June 30.
As a board member, she has seen Clackamas ESD through three superintendent transitions, two building moves and significant expansion of ESD services.
“For nearly 30 years, Nadene has served with distinction on the Clackamas ESD board, and has been a model of what true engagement as a civic volunteer looks like,” said Clackamas ESD Board of Directors Chair Linda Brown. “Throughout her board tenure, she has been a relentless advocate for children who face the most barriers to learning, promoting expanded ESD services to bring more equity to our education system. Her voice and presence on our board will be sorely missed.”
Duffield has decades of experience as an educator. She invested 30 years of her career as an elementary school teacher, primarily in the Oregon City School District.
“I was lucky enough to have four of my kids have Nadene as their elementary school teacher,” said Clackamas ESD board member Susan Trone, who was recruited by Nadene to apply for her board position 25 years ago. “Every parent dreams of having a first- or second-grade teacher for their children like Mrs. Duffield.”
Superintendent Larry Didway cited the “immense legacy” Nadene leaves.
“Nadene exemplifies what it means to be a lifelong learner. Her natural curiosity and openness to new ideas have inspired innovation and agility across our organization,” said Clackamas ESD Superintendent Larry Didway. “She is a deeply compassionate and reflective leader who, throughout her decades of service, has consistently recognized the dedication of our staff and championed the needs of students with special needs. With quiet resolve and unwavering purpose, she has helped ensure that every child receives the support they need to grow and flourish. The impact she has made on our community is beyond measure.”
