Welcome Alumni
Welcome to the official alumni website for Ulysses S. Grant High School -- Portland's premier public senior high school. The Grant High School Alumni Association (GHSAA) is an alumni-led social and service organization bridging the past and future for the benefit of Grant High School and its thousands of graduates. |
Centennial Celebration is coming to a close
Come celebrate Grant's final Centennial activity on Friday, September 13, 2024, at the school. Here are the planned activities:
At 9:50 am (note the new time!), in front of the school, we'll have a welcome from Greg Cotton, from the Class of '74, and a speech from the Grant High School Student Body President. A special rose will be planted by the Royal Rosarians, a new time capsule will be buried, and you can watch performances by both the Grant Band and the Royal Blues.
IMPORTANT! The school would like to get a headcount of who will be coming to this event. Please use this link to indicate your attendance: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScS7uamIHPMszhNwkdhercwBD81pU1IEgfOHe1CJL6eHJO04A/viewform?vc=0&c=0&w=1&flr=0
Later that same day, there will be a non-league football game against the Hood River Valley Eagles in the Grant Bowl at 3:45pm, followed by an alumni "after-party" at Amalfi's.
We hope to see many of you there to help kick off Grant's next 100 years.
At 9:50 am (note the new time!), in front of the school, we'll have a welcome from Greg Cotton, from the Class of '74, and a speech from the Grant High School Student Body President. A special rose will be planted by the Royal Rosarians, a new time capsule will be buried, and you can watch performances by both the Grant Band and the Royal Blues.
IMPORTANT! The school would like to get a headcount of who will be coming to this event. Please use this link to indicate your attendance: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScS7uamIHPMszhNwkdhercwBD81pU1IEgfOHe1CJL6eHJO04A/viewform?vc=0&c=0&w=1&flr=0
Later that same day, there will be a non-league football game against the Hood River Valley Eagles in the Grant Bowl at 3:45pm, followed by an alumni "after-party" at Amalfi's.
We hope to see many of you there to help kick off Grant's next 100 years.
Summer 2024 Generally Speaking newsletter now available
(July 7, 2024) Lots of information, plus picnic news, in this issue! Click here to access it.
GHS Constitution Team wins Nationals again!
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(April 15, 2024) Grant High School’s Constitution Team was crowned champions at the We The People National Finals, held in Washington DC on April 15, 2024. You can hear more about their amazing journey in KOIN-TV's report, available here.
Congratulations to the students, advisors, and family members! And if you'd like to support the team's efforts, you can donate here to help alleviate the expenses they occurred. |
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Celebrating Grant's Excellence
(April 15, 2024) Another GHS Centennial Celebration event is almost here!
Don't miss students and alumni performing together in A Sensational Century of Stardom, a special event celebrating 100 years of performing arts at Grant High School.
This two-hour show is both a celebration and fundraiser for continued support of performing arts at Grant. The event will feature current students, special guests and Grant alumni in a range of entertaining performances.
In addition, the audience can enjoy nostalgic photos and learn about the history of theatre, music and dance at Grant. The show is written and directed by former Grant HS Theatre Director Bruce McDonald.
The event features:
Tickets for the event can be reserved at the $50, $45, $40 and $30 levels, and can be purchased online by clicking here (availability may be limited at the door).
For those who cannot attend the event but would like to make a tax-deductible donation, please click here.
Don't miss students and alumni performing together in A Sensational Century of Stardom, a special event celebrating 100 years of performing arts at Grant High School.
This two-hour show is both a celebration and fundraiser for continued support of performing arts at Grant. The event will feature current students, special guests and Grant alumni in a range of entertaining performances.
In addition, the audience can enjoy nostalgic photos and learn about the history of theatre, music and dance at Grant. The show is written and directed by former Grant HS Theatre Director Bruce McDonald.
The event features:
- Performances from current student groups including the Royal Blues, Grant Dance Collective, Jazz Ensemble, the cast of Grease, and the mysterious Ghostly Figures.
- Performances from guest Grant alumni spanning five decades, including alumni cast of A Midsummer Night’s Dream
- Special guest appearances from pianist Thomas Lauderdale of Pink Martini and former Grant HS Vocal Music Director Doree Jarboe, along with celebrity video greetings.
Tickets for the event can be reserved at the $50, $45, $40 and $30 levels, and can be purchased online by clicking here (availability may be limited at the door).
For those who cannot attend the event but would like to make a tax-deductible donation, please click here.
Bob Stayton, Class of '61
(February 19, 2024) The Alumni Association sadly announces the death of GHS Alumni Association President Bob Stayton, '61.
When asked to participate in the Grant Alumni Association, Bob happily stepped up. Giving back was important to him and his volunteer effort was to ensure all students had the same benefits and opportunities that his Grant education provided him. He gave continuously since joining the board in 2009, twice as President and as a generous supporter of the scholarship fund. His direction, commitment, and generosity will leave a void.
His obituary can be found by clicking here.
When asked to participate in the Grant Alumni Association, Bob happily stepped up. Giving back was important to him and his volunteer effort was to ensure all students had the same benefits and opportunities that his Grant education provided him. He gave continuously since joining the board in 2009, twice as President and as a generous supporter of the scholarship fund. His direction, commitment, and generosity will leave a void.
His obituary can be found by clicking here.
Did You Play Girls Lacrosse at Grant High School?
(February 13, 2024) If you played girls lacrosse at Grant we'd love to hear from you. We are actively working on documenting the history of the program and need your help. We'd like to know who you are, when you played and any interesting facts or stories about your time with the team.
Please take a minute to visit the Alumni page of our website - ggl.grantgirlslacrosse.org/alumni/alumni to fill out a short questionnaire. Sharing your story will help us build a bridge that connects pioneering female athletes of the past to our present day Generals.
Thank you!
David Byelick, President / Treasurer Grant Girls Lacrosse
503-896-2860 / email
Please take a minute to visit the Alumni page of our website - ggl.grantgirlslacrosse.org/alumni/alumni to fill out a short questionnaire. Sharing your story will help us build a bridge that connects pioneering female athletes of the past to our present day Generals.
Thank you!
David Byelick, President / Treasurer Grant Girls Lacrosse
503-896-2860 / email
Grant in the News
:: 2023-24 Grant Constitution Team Headed to Nationals!
(February 15, 2024) For the 9th year in a row, the Grant ConTeam is competing at the "We the People" National Finals in Washington, D.C. in April! They came in 2nd at the State Competition in February, securing Oregon’s wildcard slot to compete at Nationals against 42 other schools.
As in previous years, it takes considerable preparation and expense to get there. If you are able, the team would be grateful for your tax-deductible contribution to help support training and travel expenses. Their tax ID number is 93-6000830. You may donate via School Pay or you may send a check to: Grant High School Constitution Team, c/o Angela DiPasquale, 2245 NE 36th Ave, Portland, OR 97212.
Photo left: Grant ConTeam 2023-24 wins 2nd place at the “We the People” Oregon State Competition
As in previous years, it takes considerable preparation and expense to get there. If you are able, the team would be grateful for your tax-deductible contribution to help support training and travel expenses. Their tax ID number is 93-6000830. You may donate via School Pay or you may send a check to: Grant High School Constitution Team, c/o Angela DiPasquale, 2245 NE 36th Ave, Portland, OR 97212.
Photo left: Grant ConTeam 2023-24 wins 2nd place at the “We the People” Oregon State Competition
:: Winter 2024 Generally Speaking newsletter now available
:: GHS Centennial Celebrations underway
(January 25, 2024) Did you hear?!? U.S. Grant High School is celebrating its 100th year in operation this year!
Our historic institution first opened its doors in September 1924 as the eighth Portland high school. Since then it has been committed to providing its students with a well-rounded education that prepares them for success beyond the halls of Grant. As we celebrate our 100th year we look forward to continuing this tradition and building on our legacy of excellence while honoring the school's rich history and recognizing the countless individuals who have contributed to its success.
To commemorate this milestone, a dedicated volunteer committee consisting of GHS alumni across the last 70 years is hard at work planning a series of events that are sure to be enjoyed by alumni, current students, and members of the community. Throughout the year there will be numerous opportunities for alumni to reconnect with former classmates, including a special concert by our very own Tom Grant, Class of ’64. In addition, sporting events, a theatrical production, and an open house for all to explore the new campus will be offered.
We invite you to join us as we celebrate this milestone in ways big and small that showcase the school's achievements, highlight its bright future, and bring together members of the Grant High School community.
Mark your calendars for the following events:
What can you do to keep abreast of Centennial Celebration events?
The Centennial Celebration Committee is chaired by Breanna (Probasco-Canda) Jackson, class of 2004. To reach her directly, please email [email protected] And...cheers to 100 years!
Our historic institution first opened its doors in September 1924 as the eighth Portland high school. Since then it has been committed to providing its students with a well-rounded education that prepares them for success beyond the halls of Grant. As we celebrate our 100th year we look forward to continuing this tradition and building on our legacy of excellence while honoring the school's rich history and recognizing the countless individuals who have contributed to its success.
To commemorate this milestone, a dedicated volunteer committee consisting of GHS alumni across the last 70 years is hard at work planning a series of events that are sure to be enjoyed by alumni, current students, and members of the community. Throughout the year there will be numerous opportunities for alumni to reconnect with former classmates, including a special concert by our very own Tom Grant, Class of ’64. In addition, sporting events, a theatrical production, and an open house for all to explore the new campus will be offered.
We invite you to join us as we celebrate this milestone in ways big and small that showcase the school's achievements, highlight its bright future, and bring together members of the Grant High School community.
Mark your calendars for the following events:
- January 31st & February 1st – Amalfi’s Restaurant Fundraiser for the Centennial Celebration at Amalfi’s (4703 N.E. Fremont, 97213) from 4:00 - 9:00pm. Twenty percent of your dine-in food and non-alcoholic purchases will go towards underwriting the costs of our Centennial events. Be sure to mention the Grant High School Fundraiser to your server.
- February 10th – A SENSATIONAL CENTURY OF CHAMPIONS: Double Header Basketball Game and Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, at Grant High School. Both the women’s and men’s basketball teams will be taking on the Franklin High School Lightning at 3:00pm and 5:00pm, respectively. Between the games there will be a Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony honoring notable athletes of the past. Concessions will be available and there will be space to gather and catch up with former classmates and friends while grabbing a snack. Admission to the game is $6.00 for adults and $2.00 for seniors and students.
- UP NEXT! March 16th – A SENSATIONAL CENTURY OF EXCELLENCE: Open House, featuring Tom Grant, at Grant High School. From 1:00 - 4:00pm, an open house will showcase school groups and promote connection to the school and students. In addition, visitors may tour the building and alumni can reconnect in their respective decades. The event highlight is a special concert by Tom Grant, GHS alum and acclaimed jazz musician. The concert begins at 4:00pm. The open house is free, and donations will help defray the costs of the Centennial events
- May 30th & 31st – A SENSATIONAL CENTURY OF STARDOM: Celebrating 100 Years of Performing Arts, at Grant High School You won’t want to miss this theatre, music, and dance extravaganza with performances by the Royal Blues, Jazz Ensemble, Grant Dance Collective, and guest alumni stars! Current students and alumni will join forces to delight and entertain our community. Tickets for the event can be reserved at the $50, $45, $40 and $30 levels, and can be purchased online by clicking here (availability may be limited at the door). For those who cannot attend the event but would like to make a tax-deductible donation, please click here.
- September – A SENSATIONAL CENTURY ENDS AND THE NEXT ONE BEGINS: Birthday Celebration. Though a date has not been selected yet, you’ll want to join us to sing “Happy Birthday” to Dear Ol’ US Grant and enjoy more fellowship and connecting. Details forthcoming.
What can you do to keep abreast of Centennial Celebration events?
- GET CONNECTED: To stay current with the Centennial Celebration events, visit the GHS website: pps.net/domain/7818 or follow us on social media: Facebook / Official U.S. Grant Alumni Association or Instagram / GHS 100th Year. We also want to encourage folks to complete this Alumni and Community Contact Form to make sure your information is up to date, opt to receive informational emails, volunteer, or even sponsor events. Please encourage your classmates to do so as well.
- DONATE: Putting on events has many associated costs, and the GHS Centennial Celebration Committee would greatly appreciate your financial support! You can contribute online at the SchoolPay site or by mailing a check payable to Grant High School / 2245 NE 36th AVE, Portland 97212, with a memo “GHS 100th year celebration.”
The Centennial Celebration Committee is chaired by Breanna (Probasco-Canda) Jackson, class of 2004. To reach her directly, please email [email protected] And...cheers to 100 years!
:: US Constitution team snags 2nd Place!
(April 27, 2023) Grant alum Adrienne Anderson asked Oregon state senator, Sen. Dembrow (who is in Grant's district) to give courtesy to Grant during Thursday's floor session in Salem. He read a short paragraph about the competition and the students receiving 2nd place. If you missed it, you can watch a video by clicking here.
(April 24, 2023) Grant High School's Constitution Team came in second in the 36th Annual "We the People" National Finals, held April 22-24 at the National Conference Center in Washington DC. The winning school was the Maggie L. Walker Governor’s School for Government and International Studies (MLWGS) from Richmond, Virginia. Portland's Lincoln High School came in 6th.
If you're able, the Team would be grateful for your tax-deductible contribution to help support training and travel expenses. Their tax ID number is 93-6000830. You may donate via School Pay or you may send a check to: Grant High School Constitution Team, care of Angela DiPasquale, 2245 NE 36th Ave, Portland, OR 97212.
(April 24, 2023) Grant High School's Constitution Team came in second in the 36th Annual "We the People" National Finals, held April 22-24 at the National Conference Center in Washington DC. The winning school was the Maggie L. Walker Governor’s School for Government and International Studies (MLWGS) from Richmond, Virginia. Portland's Lincoln High School came in 6th.
If you're able, the Team would be grateful for your tax-deductible contribution to help support training and travel expenses. Their tax ID number is 93-6000830. You may donate via School Pay or you may send a check to: Grant High School Constitution Team, care of Angela DiPasquale, 2245 NE 36th Ave, Portland, OR 97212.
:: Grant winter sport athletes shine
(February 21, 2023) Hey, sports fans! Check out these accomplished athletes currently attending Grant:
- This past weekend at the OSAA State Tournament at Tualatin Hills Rec Center, the GHS Boys Swim Team won the PIL Championship while the girls took second place. Get more details on who progresses to State at grantathletics.com
- In wrestling, the Generals qualified four participants from the PIL Championships to advance to the State Championships February 24-25 at Memorial Coliseum. Details on who progresses to State at grantathletics.com
- Grant High School student athletes Rachel Peterson and Michaela McCollum were co-awarded Most Valuable Teammate from the OSAA (Oregon School Activities Association)! Rachel is Captain of Grant's varsity volleyball team and was nominated by their coach, Erin Cole, for their ability to excel in the classroom and on the court. Michaela is a varsity soccer player and was nominated by their coach, Manolis Tjuanakis for returning to varsity from the 2021 State Championship team and taking on a leadership role within the team.
:: GHS Constitution Team shines again
(February 19, 2023) Congratulations to the students and coaches of Grant's Constitution Team on their stellar finish in the Oregon state competition finals. You can read more by clicking here.
Founded and designed by The Center for Civic Education, We the People: The Citizen and the Constitution is an active learning curriculum designed to foster deeper understanding of the U.S. Constitution, Bill of Rights, and the institutions of government. The culminating activity is a simulated congressional hearing in which students testify before a panel, answering questions that demonstrate their knowledge and confidence.
Founded and designed by The Center for Civic Education, We the People: The Citizen and the Constitution is an active learning curriculum designed to foster deeper understanding of the U.S. Constitution, Bill of Rights, and the institutions of government. The culminating activity is a simulated congressional hearing in which students testify before a panel, answering questions that demonstrate their knowledge and confidence.
:: Ulysses S. Grant, General of the Armies of the United States
Update from Jan Taylor Castle (’65): Below and in our Winter newsletter was an article from "The Conversation" about General Grant’s pending promotion. That article was published on Dec. 5 and on Dec. 23 the bill was signed into law! Here is the story on CBS News: Ulysses S. Grant promoted to general of the armies in new defense spending bill Our class president, Richard Shimomura, alerted us to this on the Class of 65’s Facebook page when it happened. This is definitely something to be celebrated during the Centennial celebration!
An interesting article about our high school's namesake!
The article begins... "Tucked away in an amendment to the FY2023 U.S. defense authorization bill is a rare instance of congressional bipartisanship and a tribute to U.S. President Ulysses S. Grant.
If approved, the measure would posthumously promote Grant to the rank of General of the Armies of the U.S., making him only the third person – along with John J. Pershing and George Washington – to be awarded the nation’s highest military honor.
...[ I ] believe that the promotion would be much more than a symbolic nod to a great military general. Rather, it would highlight the overlooked legacy of a man who fought to end the last vestiges of slavery."
You can read more by clicking here.
An interesting article about our high school's namesake!
The article begins... "Tucked away in an amendment to the FY2023 U.S. defense authorization bill is a rare instance of congressional bipartisanship and a tribute to U.S. President Ulysses S. Grant.
If approved, the measure would posthumously promote Grant to the rank of General of the Armies of the U.S., making him only the third person – along with John J. Pershing and George Washington – to be awarded the nation’s highest military honor.
...[ I ] believe that the promotion would be much more than a symbolic nod to a great military general. Rather, it would highlight the overlooked legacy of a man who fought to end the last vestiges of slavery."
You can read more by clicking here.
Support the Alumni Association
Fred Meyer continues to offer $2 million to nonprofits in AK, ID, OR and WA and the GHSAA would love to have some of those dollars!
All you have to do is register your personal Fred Meyer's reward card number to the Alumni Association's number (GF119) at by clicking here. Connecting our number in no way affects the personal rewards you are already receiving when you shop at Fred Meyer. You will continue to earn rewards...and so will we!
All you have to do is register your personal Fred Meyer's reward card number to the Alumni Association's number (GF119) at by clicking here. Connecting our number in no way affects the personal rewards you are already receiving when you shop at Fred Meyer. You will continue to earn rewards...and so will we!
Join us
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Your dues and donations enable us to publish the alumni newsletter, maintain the alumni website, sponsor alumni events, award scholarships to deserving Grant students, and make contributions to Grant school enrichment programs.
We encourage you to join with us and support our efforts to keep the Grant spirit going strong--now and in the decades ahead! To join GHSAA, please click on the button below for a membership application or visit the dues / donations page by clicking here. |
Mailing address: U.S.Grant Alumni Association | PO Box 13291 | Portland, Oregon 97213
Want to volunteer? Have a question? Visit our Contact page to get in touch with us.
Want to volunteer? Have a question? Visit our Contact page to get in touch with us.
© 2013 - 2030 ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. GRANT HIGH SCHOOL ALUMNI ASSOCIATION, PORTLAND, OREGON
WEBSITE DESIGN BY SUE THOMPSON MIDDLETON, CLASS OF 1974
CLICK HERE FOR OUR PRIVACY NOTICE
WEBSITE DESIGN BY SUE THOMPSON MIDDLETON, CLASS OF 1974
CLICK HERE FOR OUR PRIVACY NOTICE