I am a former choir student of Dr. Dwight "Doc" Uphaus from the class of '97. I transferred into Gresham high school as a freshman in the middle of the school year and knew nobody and was lonely and depressed. I joined choir on a whim, and was quite certain that I couldn't sing. But Doc taught me otherwise. Doc took the time to get to know all of his students and created a place where everyone could come together, from the cheerleaders and football players and the misfits where we all just enjoyed our love of music. He taught us all how to build trust with one another and created a safe space for all of us meatballs (if he taught you, you would know what that means). He always paid attention to the students that needed extra help, and encouraged people to learn and grow. For my class, he took us to amazing places. We got the privilege of singing at Carnegie Hall, seeing New York, a trip to Disneyland and enhancing our love of music and always having a space for us kids to feel safe. But my favorite was our annual choir retreat! When I thinking back to high school Choir Retreat was one of the most magical experiences I had and I know that’s true for many of you reading this now.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story. I know so many others could share the the impact that Doc has had in our lives.

Doc is in good health being 85 years young, but he wants to relocate back to Portland from Oklahoma with his pup. Anything that we can do to lend a hand would be great.

There is a facebook group I started called “Supporters of Doc Dwight Uphaus” where I am hoping to coordinate folks who can help with errands or step in in the event he gets sick to help. Additionally I am planning a karaoke choir reunion fundraiser for the summer once Doc’s here and settled!

Thank you for your kindness and help. Doc has been an inspiration to us all and it’s an honor to be able to try to repay a fraction of the kindness he’s shown all of us.

Please reach out to me directly with any questions!