Alumni Employee Focus

Carolyn (Provenzola) Poling, Class of 2003

Carolyn Poling (née Provenzola) is a proud Portland Christian alumna who attended PC from first through 12th grade. She’s married to her senior-year sweetheart, fellow PC graduate Ben Poling (’03) — and together they now have two daughters, one at the elementary campus and one in middle school!

Favorite Memories of PC
“I loved building close friendships with my classmates and appreciated all the extracurricular opportunities — from track and cross country to band and choir.”

Life After Graduation
After earning her degree from Trinity Western University, Carolyn built her career in education and ministry — experiences that made returning to Portland Christian feel like a natural fit.

Current Role
Carolyn serves as an Elementary Education Assistant.

Why She Returned to PC
“When I was little, I wanted to be just like my 2nd grade teacher, Mrs. Newcomb. I always thought I would be back to teach 2nd grade. While I’m not teaching in a classroom, I love being in a role supporting students of all grade levels so they can do their best!”

Favorite PC Teacher
My favorite and most impactful teacher was Mrs. Dowd in honors and AP English. She opened up a whole new world to me when she helped me see the depth and value of literature. Because of her, I chose to pursue my English Lit degree. To this day, literature is a huge part of who I am, and I love sharing that love with my own kids. Every time I see Mrs. Dowd’s memorial picture in the high school library, I have a quiet moment of gratitude for her impact in my life.

We’re so thrilled to have Carolyn with us and thankful for our PC graduates who return to bless PC! 💜