Staci is a learner, educator, Fulbright Scholar, and Speaking for Ourselves Action Research (SOAR) researcher. She researches critical hope and despair, peace-building, and higher education in protracted and conflict contexts. She is a forced migration scholar that is committed to co-creating practical solutions that are culturally responsive and led by, for, and in partnership with communities. Dr. Martin is a faculty member at Portland State University.

Irvin was born and raised in Louisiana. At 17, he enlisted in the United States Navy. After serving aboard the U.S.S. New Orleans, LPH-11, he was reassigned to the beautiful Pacific Northwest at Naval Station Everett, Washington. He served alongside the Judge Advocate General as a paralegal (NCO/E5 Aviation Warfare Specialist) and earned an honorable discharge. As the former Legislative Director for Rep. Janelle Bynum (HD 39), he advocates for students of Color, those within the carceral system, LGBTQIA+ communities, and other marginalized populations to create safe, inclusive learning environments for all Oregonians.