Rotary Lunch Speaker: John Kitzhaber

John Kitzhaber graduated from South Eugene High School, Dartmouth College and the University Oregon Medical School. He practiced emergency medicine in Roseburg Oregon from 1974 to 1988. John was elected to the Oregon legislature in 1978 and served for 14 years – eight years as Senate President. He was elected governor in 1994 and served three terms from 1995-2003; and 2011-2015. During his time in office he focused on health care, public education, at risk children and families, and environmental stewardship. His approach to solving difficult problems in public policy was based on investing in relationships and collaboration built on trust and respect. John is motivated by the belief that “Oregon won’t be a good place for any of us to live unless it’s a good place for all of us to live.” He is a dedicated fly fisherman and avid white-water rafter; and remains committed to continuing to contribute to the Oregon community.