The search is on! Send us your stories!


The Foundation is launching a search for the oldest surviving graduate of the Corvallis public schools. This quest is part of preparations for the Foundation’s 20th anniversary celebration in 2016.

“We are excited to be celebrating two decades of supporting education in our community,” said Karen MacEwan, Foundation Chair. “This is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the members of our community that have a unique historical perspective on the tradition of excellence in our public schools.”

To be eligible, candidates must be a current Corvallis resident and have attended local schools from first grade through high school. The selectee will be invited to attend the Foundation’s 20th anniversary celebration breakfast on March 10, 2016 at the Corvallis Country Club, where they will be recognized.

“This is a chance to honor the strong support of public education in our community and to celebrate stories that connect the past with the present,” noted Chair MacEwan.

Early accounts of Corvallis history suggest that the first school began in 1850 in a one-room log schoolhouse near the Willamette River at the end of Washington Street. Enrollment was about 100 students. The school district now serves approximately 6,600 students at thirteen schools. Corvallis students represent more than 47 nationalities and speak 52 languages.

Candidates for the oldest graduate honor are invited to send letters to Corvallis Public Schools Foundation at 1555 SW 35th Street, Corvallis, OR 97333. You can also email [email protected]. Please share your name, contact information, the year you graduated. We encourage you to share stories with us from your school days as well!