Alumni Employee Focus
Ashley Runyan, Class of 2012
We continue our spotlight on PC graduates who have returned to serve as teachers. Today we feature Ashley Runyan, Class of 2012 who grew up at Portland Christian – starting as a kindergartener and graduating as a senior.
Ashley shares, “I love being a teacher so much! My teachers helped shape me into the person I am today. If I can help my students as much as my teachers helped me, then I am fulfilling my purpose.”
Memories as a PC Student
My favorite memories usually centered around my experiences in band class. Playing at the football and basketball games in the pep band was always a blast. I also played in the pit orchestra for a few of the spring musicals. Even though the practices were long, we still had a great time since the community was so strong.
My Honors and AP English classes ignited my passion for reading, and it was always fun to have discussions about the books we were reading in class.
Favorite PC Teachers
It is very hard to choose a favorite teacher because they all impacted me so deeply in many ways. The teachers at PC always had so much care for their students and I remember it showed from every teacher I had along the way.
Still, two elementary teachers stand out:
- Mrs. Duncan (4th grade): Firm but full of love.
- Mrs. Clay (3rd grade): Funny, joyful, and always adding a touch of whimsy to the classroom.
Life After Graduation
After graduating in 2012, Ashley spent a short period living in Illinois before returning to Portland in 2016. She attended Concordia University, earning her bachelor’s degree in elementary education in 2018. A few years later, in 2021, she rejoined the PC community – this time as a teacher.
Current Role at PC
Ashley now serves as a first grade teacher, pouring the same dedication and encouragement into her students that she once received.
Final Thoughts
“I always knew my teachers were working hard for me, and now I know just how hard!” 💜