Ashley Boren
Bags, Inc.

Nominated by a PDX traveler

"Ashley was kind and courteous from the very beginning of our interaction. She asked if I needed a wheelchair, rather than assuming I did, and when I said I didn’t, she respected that without question.

I travel with a guide dog, and in many cases, it’s easier to have a sighted guide assist alongside the dog. Ashley was more than happy to help. She accompanied both me and my guide dog to the pet relief area and even made sure I had extra waste bags for the road. Throughout our time together, she was friendly, engaging, and made great conversation.

I’ll be requesting Ashley in the future. She ensured we got to the correct gate and stayed with us until she was certain I had everything I needed. I also appreciated her letting me know about this portal for sharing positive feedback with airport staff. From now on, I’ll be using it regularly—there are so many kind, dedicated employees at PDX who deserve recognition.

Thank you for giving me the opportunity to share this experience."

Anikka Dibene
TSA

Nominated by Lisa, a PDX traveler

"Anikka took what could have been a very time consuming and complex task and simplified it. She was kind, gracious, and humble beyond measure. She was responsive and prompt and, even though she was about to go on a break, she did the task herself to make sure that it happened. I am so thankful for Anikka.

When I asked if I could buy her a coffee gift card, she politely declined, sharing that she had made a similar mistake to mine one time. I imagine she inspires people to pay it forward, which both my son and I are doing. Thanks, Anikka for making PDX a one of a kind airport."

Jesse Fenton
SP Plus Corporation

Nominated by Gail, a PDX traveler

"We were looking for parking in the economy lot when we encountered technical difficulties at the entrance. The machine failed to print a ticket, and then our credit card got stuck. Not wanting to leave our card in the machine, we searched for someone who could assist.

Fortunately, we found Jesse Fenton. He immediately stopped what he was doing and came over to help. Jesse released our credit card from the reader and called for someone to inspect the gate mechanism. While he retrieved our card, a technician examined the gate and the ticket machine. We then used a different reader and were able to park successfully.

At first glance, Jesse's assistance might seem like standard customer service. However, his actions went beyond the routine. Outstanding customer service is often defined by how it makes the customer feel, not just by the act itself.

It was 2:30 a.m., it was very dark, we were disoriented, and our travel credit card was stuck in a machine. The moment we encountered Jesse, he sprang into action. His calm approach, support, and engaging personality immediately put us at ease.

In the past, we had not used the PDX Parking options, but this experience is likely to change that perception, especially when Jesse is on duty."

Earline Huntley
Hertz

Nominated by 

"Earline, a Customer Service Lead at Hertz, exemplifies the PDX People values through her outstanding service and unwavering dedication. Known for her super friendly demeanor, Earline consistently goes above and beyond to ensure customers feel welcomed and supported.

During a recent severe ice storm, her empathy and leadership truly shone. Earline not only provided clear directions to customers, helping them navigate the challenging conditions, but also demonstrated exceptional sensitivity and calmness. Her experience was evident as she maintained order and assisted her team in staying ahead of the weather-related disruptions, all while keeping a smile on her face. Earline's ability to manage such a stressful situation with grace and positivity left a lasting impression on both customers and colleagues, showcasing her as a true asset to the Hertz team and PDX community."

Jeremiah Pacheco
Port of Portland

Nominated by Diego, Port of Portland

"I received a handwritten thank you note from a passenger recognizing Jeremiah’s above and beyond efforts assisting her with securing over-sized luggage so it could be accepted by the airline. It is just another example of Jeremiah's persistent dedication to our passengers."

The letter:

"I was returning home from Portland after a trip to help settle the estate of my parents, who both passed recently. I was bring back a vintage rifle – that had belonged to my late parents – to pass on to my son. I thought I had taken care of the gun case requirements, but at the counter I discovered my attempts to secure the gun case were not adequate.

I could go on and on at this point, but the bottom line is that your employee, Jeremiah Pacheco, was instrumental in getting this tired, emotionally spent, cranky lady on her flight! He went way above and beyond his required duties. He took me under his care and helped secure the case. He went with me to my airline’s counter to make sure I had everything approved and squared away before he left.

He was my hero! I hope he can be recognized for his efforts. As long as the Port continues to employ and reward such wonderful people, you will continue to be a wonderful place to visit and travel through."

Ashley Sauer
All About Foods Group/The Country Cat

Nominated by PDX travelers

1. "We had dined at The Country Cat once before, with Ashley as our server, and were hoping to see her again on this trip. To our delight, she was working.Ashley’s warm greeting and genuine smile are always appreciated and the level of customer service she provides is exceptional. During our meal, I asked if peanut butter was available. Ashley was incredibly pleasant and let me know she’d do her best to find some. She actually found some, and I was able to enjoy a delicious breakfast thanks to her extra effort. Cheers to a wonderful employee who loves her work. It shows in everything she does."
2. "She had amazing recommendations, and her hospitality made me feel so welcomed. I unfortunately missed my flight and had to wait for the next one, but I couldn’t have asked for a better experience waiting. I’d recommend her not only because of her ability to connect with people but also her knowledge of the food and drinks. 12/10 would recommend!"
3. "Ashley was friendly and efficient. She provided a very enjoyable experience."
4. "Ashley was over-the-top friendly and knowledgeable. So refreshing and she’s super enthusiastic. She is such an asset to the airport vibe!"
5. "She provided outstanding customer service. And she is very friendly."

Kenya Vasquez-Flores
AGI/Frontier Airlines

Nominated by Officer Skip Baker, Port of Portland Police

"I was dispatched to a call at the Frontier ticket counter, which was no longer staffed, as the employees were assisting with boarding at the gate.

The passenger, who had arrived slightly late, was visibly frustrated and upset that he was unable to reach any airline representatives—either in the terminal or by phone. Knowing that Frontier only had one flight scheduled that day and that no additional representatives would be available to assist with re-booking, I proceeded to the gate where the employees were working.

The gate area was busy with active boarding, but I explained the situation to the gate agents. AGI/Frontier Airlines employee Kenya Vasquez Flores immediately offered to return to the ticket counter to assist the passenger. After receiving approval from her supervisor, Kenya went to meet the customer.

I introduced Kenya to the passenger, and she was able to help ensure he could continue with his travel plans. The passenger was sincerely grateful for Kenya’s assistance.

Thanks to Kenya’s willingness to step in and help, a customer, despite his delayed arrival, was taken care of and left with a much-improved experience at PDX."

Olivia Waterfield
Westward Whiskey

Nominated by Colleen, Westward Whiskey

“Olivia goes above and beyond to assist guests however she can and ensures they have the best experience possible!”

Alon Beinstock
Carrie Countryman
Doreen Champaco
Sam Fetters
Sofie Ogren
Port of Portland

Nominated by a PDX traveler

“Thank you so much to the PDX Lost and Found Team. Because of you, I was able to retrieve my lost property from my airline. I feel you went well beyond your scope to help me when I was out of other options. You gave me great directions to retrieve my property. And, because of you, I have my item back. I made sure that everyone involved – airline staff and beyond –  knows how great your team is. Again, thank you so much.”

Doreen Champaco
Port of Portland

Nominated by PDX People

This quarter, we had the privilege of honoring Doreen Champaco with the prestigious G.O.A.T. (Greatest of All Time) Award for her exceptional and ongoing contributions to PDX People and customer experience.

Doreen began her journey at PDX with the SP+ employee parking team, where her warmth and dedication quickly stood out. Several years ago, she transitioned to the Lost & Found Team—a role that proved to be a perfect match for her calm, compassionate presence and outstanding customer service skills. Whether reuniting passengers with lost items or offering reassurance during stressful moments, Doreen has consistently gone above and beyond. It's no surprise that she has been a regular nominee for the quarterly PDX People Customer Service awards.

In a heartfelt moment at the event, Doreen accepted her award in front of the entire Lost & Found team—who were also recognized at the event with a team Award. It was a fitting celebration of the excellence and positive culture that Doreen has helped foster.

As Doreen prepares to return home to Guam in the coming weeks, we are filled with gratitude for the lasting impact she has made. Her legacy of service and kindness will remain a part of PDX long after her departure. She will be deeply missed—but never forgotten.

Doreen, you truly are the G.O.A.T.