Moments of Belonging: A Vision for the Next 50 Years

October 27, 2026

Moments of Belonging: A Vision for the Next 50 Years

As Childpeace celebrates 50 years, we are reflecting on five decades of educators, students, and families who have shaped our community since 1976. This story is part of our Stories of Belonging project, highlighting how we help children belong to themselves, to others, and to their community. Follow this link to share a story of your own!

When public affairs leader T.J. McHugh returned to Portland after living and working in Russia, he was looking for a meaningful way to reconnect with his community. A friend and former Nike colleague, Mary Marsh — then Childpeace Board Chair — reached out with a unique proposal: Childpeace was seeking its first independent trustee, a board member without direct family ties to the school who could bring an objective, long-range perspective to institutional governance.

While the board had long included parents of current students and alumni, T.J. stepped into a distinct role as a community leader offering an outside lens. Accepting the invitation, T.J. began a six-year tenure on the Board of Trustees, serving as Vice Chair and ultimately as Board Chair.

"Being a non-parent on the board gave me a different vantage point," T.J. reflected. "Parents naturally experience the school through their child's day-to-day classroom moments. A trustee without children in the building can step back and focus entirely on long-term stewardship — ensuring the school thrives not just today, but 50 years from now."

Navigating Pivotal Times with Strategic Vision

T.J. brought extensive experience in global brand management and civic leadership to his board service. During a period that included navigating the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and leadership transitions, T.J.'s focus remained anchored on institutional resilience and governance.

"A board’s true responsibility is guaranteeing the long-term health and stability of the institution," T.J. said. "Working through challenging times alongside dedicated board members to stabilize the organization and set a clear path forward was deeply rewarding."

For T.J., the reward was also found in the vibrant culture of the school community — from watching students joyfully participate in the annual Bumble Run to connecting with fellow board members who shared a deep dedication to the school's mission.

The City Center and the Confidence of Graduates

As Director of Government Relations for the Portland Metro Chamber, T.J. understands the vital role an urban campus plays in the city's fabric. Located in Portland's Pearl District, Childpeace offers a unique environment where Middle School students use the city as an extension of their classroom — learning to navigate transit, engage with local institutions, and build real-world independence.

"I love seeing the Middle Schoolers out in the city, taking the bus and MAX light rail, learning through direct experience," T.J. shared. "It gives them a level of real-world learning you rarely see at that age."

That real-world preparation culminates at 8th grade graduation, which T.J. highlighted as one of his favorite annual traditions.

"What stood out to me every year at graduation was the confidence of the students," T.J. said. "It is rare to see a whole class of 8th graders speak with such poise and self-assurance. Childpeace meets children where they are and focuses on helping them become thoughtful, capable human beings."