POIC

"..an eloquent voice is a way to communicate our difference, a means of proclaiming to the world there is but one of us—and we have something to say in a way only we can say it.” - Mitchell S. Jackson

Following his keynote address at this year's Rosemary Anderson Prep commencement, POIC was further honored to welcome Pulitzer Prize-winning author and native Portlander Mitchell S. Jackson for an "Intro to Voice" writer's workshop with our Community Safety team.

Jackson, who regularly works with justice-impacted communities, developed the seminar to help participants share their stories with clarity. The interactive lecture also defined and explored the significance of eloquence in a narrative voice.

According to Jackson, an eloquent voice is singular—a way of understanding identity and asserting its value to the world around us. This is especially true for marginalized groups navigating systemic harm and historical trauma. Through his teaching, Jackson showed that crafting one's voice is as personal as it is political.

The “Intro to Voice” lecture is a key addition to POIC's Community Safety Worker professional development module, giving our team practical tools they'll carry into job interviews, client documentation, community engagement, and beyond.

We'd like to send a heartfelt thank you to Mitchell S. Jackson for his time, wisdom, and belief in the power of our voices. We are forever grateful to have you in the POIC community. 🖊️💚🤝🏾

✨🎓 HATS OFF TO OUR GRADUATES!! 🎓✨

The Rosemary Anderson Prep Class of 2026 gathered last evening to celebrate their graduation, surrounded by the teachers, family, friends, and mentors who supported them every step of the way.

This year's graduates are brought together by shared experiences but leave Rosemary Anderson Prep with a story all their own. Together, they built a community defined by care, determination, and endless potential.

Congratulations to our students on their monumental achievement! We are so proud of you ❤️❤️❤️