Judy Applegate Strand (she/her)

CEO, Metropolitan Family Service

Judy joined MFS in 2005 after a two-decade career in community mental health, starting in direct clinical work that led to innovating new ways to reach and treat older adults with mental health needs. At MFS, Judy provided leadership for programs and overall operations as Chief Operating Officer until 2012, when she moved into the role of CEO.

Throughout her career, Judy has put her energy into efforts that improve and expand access and inclusivity in order to build a resilient and just community, which is core to the mission of MFS.

“I have heard people say that they had a chance to do something they never had imagined they could do because of MFS. It might be being able to read for the first time, getting their family’s first loan approval, or being able to get transportation needed in later years…it is an honor to be part of an organization that opens up access to pivotal resources for so many people in our community.”

Judy is originally from NJ, received her undergraduate degree from the College of Wooster, Ohio, and received her MSW at Portland State University. She serves on the All Hands Raised Partnership Council, Portland, Oregon; is Co-Chair for the Multnomah County Schools Uniting Neighborhoods Service System, and is an Oregon American Leadership Forum Senior Fellow.

Judy and Jack Strand own Strand Tea Company, and live in the foothills of Mt. Hood with their cats. Judy is an avid singer, and enjoys painting watercolors when time and space allow!