The PGE Foundation today announced that Brooke Brownlee will become Executive Director of the PGE Foundation, succeeding Kregg Arntson, who will retire on September 25 after more than a decade of service leading the Foundation and its work in the community.

Since assuming his role in 2014, Arntson supported innovative programs around education initiatives, climate resiliency, STEM career opportunities and more throughout Oregon and underserved communities through the foundation’s evolved economic prosperity investments. During this time, Arntson played a key role in responding to major community challenges, increasing support during times of crisis and strengthening partnerships with organizations working to address social, environmental, and climate issues across the state.

“At the heart of our community work is building trust with the people and communities we serve,” said Arntson, a lifelong Oregonian. “Throughout my career at PGE and the PGE Foundation, I’ve been deeply grateful for the opportunity to build relationships with so many remarkable people and value the work they do every day to care for Oregon’s people and places.”

As the foundation transitions to new leadership, PGE Foundation Chair Angelica Espinosa reflected on Arntson’s legacy and welcomed Brownlee as the organization's next Executive Director.

“Kregg has helped shape the foundation into a trusted partner across Oregon through his commitment to listening, building relationships and investing in opportunities that have made a lasting impact,” she said. “Brooke’s deep understanding of our communities, passion for service and proven leadership will guide the Foundation into its next chapter.”

Brownlee is a natural fit to lead the PGE Foundation, with deep community ties, a longstanding commitment to service, and demonstrated leadership throughout her career.

She has decades of experience, including 9 years at Portland General Electric, where she has led labor and workforce development initiatives, community engagement efforts, wildfire preparedness outreach and programs that strengthen connections between PGE and the communities it serves.

Her appointment reflects the foundation's continued commitment to building strong community relationships and expanding opportunities that support Oregon's future workforce.

"I have been fortunate to work with amazing communities throughout my career and am excited to take on the leadership of the PGE Foundation, building upon the significant contributions and work that Kregg has led for the last decade plus,” said Brownlee.

The foundation remains focused on supporting upstream solutions that expand access, build skills and confidence, and open pathways for greater economic mobility, creating lasting impact for individuals, families, and local communities across Oregon.

About the PGE Foundation

The PGE Foundation is an independent, nonprofit foundation aligned with the priorities of Portland General Electric. Founded in 1997 through an endowment dedicated to improving the quality of life for Oregonians, the foundation has awarded more than $33 million to community organizations across the state. Today, the foundation supports efforts that expand opportunities for Oregonians to learn, grow and build resilience—from hands-on career learning and support during times of need to investments in climate resilience and economic prosperity. To learn more, please visit www.pgefoundation.org.