Patricia and John Beckman

John and Patricia Beckman were not only longtime OPB members, but dear friends of OPB staff and supporters too. They invested their time, energy, and financial support for more than 30 years. Their extraordinary gift through their estate established "The John and Patricia Beckman Fund" to support the dissemination and creation of content created by OPB and to support programs in the arts and sciences.

The Beckman’s relationship with OPB began in 1985, shortly after they had moved from the Bay Area of California back to John’s hometown of Portland. The Beckmans were committed to supporting OPB for its quality programming and unbiased story-telling. John and Patricia are most widely cherished at OPB for their dedication as co-chairs and founding members of the Cornerstone Society Council.

Patricia and John met in February of 1979 and were married in 1980. Patricia graduated from Hockaday School in Dallas. A natural for design and fashion, she attended the Parsons New School for Design in New York. Patricia was extensively involved in The National Society Colonial Dames of America.

John was born and raised in Portland. Despite financial hardships and setbacks, he worked hard for his education and became a very proud alumnus of the University of Portland. He was a photographer and high speed camera entrepreneur, a classically trained pianist, a recipient of the American Meteorological Society’s highest honor, and an author. He served as Chairman of the Board for the San Francisco Conservatory of Music, as an Oregon Symphony Trustee, and on the University of Portland’s Board of Regents.

In 2001 the Beckman’s were presented with the prestigious PBS National Leadership Award. This award recognizes volunteers across the country whose work on behalf of public television in the areas of advocacy, fundraising, and institutional advancements has made a substantial impact on funding the needs of their local station. At the 2012 President’s Council and Cornerstone Society Annual Dinner, the Beckmans were presented with the Leadership in Philanthropy Award. OPB is what it is today certainly in part because of their commitment and generosity.