Annie Pan Truong

“In the Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC), we are the front door to all our services. I think of myself as a ‘bridge of knowledge’ to connect people to the right resources. Some might think that this is stressful, but it’s a blessing to be able to use my knowledge, skills, and gift of languages to assist anyone in need,” said Annie Pan Truong.

Born in Saigon, Vietnam, Annie came to United States. as an international student. First at City College of San Francisco and on to Portland State University, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in marketing and management. She planned to return to Viet Nam to open her own business, but she fell in love with the Portland Metro area and decided to stay.

With her ability to speak English, Vietnamese, Cantonese, and Mandarin, she was successful in a wide range of jobs, including marketing, retail, banking services, health care and academia. She eventually settled in with her husband and family in Vancouver, where she volunteered her language skills as an interpreter for students, families in the Vancouver school district.

Once her children got older, she started her training in the Medical Interpreter Field and received her Certification by the Oregon Health Authority. Annie had been working as an QMI - Qualified Medical Vietnamese as a contractor with Columbia Language Solution. During her seven years of working as a Qualified Medical Interpreter, she got to know the Area Agency on Aging and Disability (AAADSW) by assisting clients and the agency as an interpreter. Last year, she decided to join AAADSW as a Resource Specialist in Community Services Department. She really enjoys working at the agency assisting all clients and vendors. In November, she was nominated for the agency’s prestigious Penny Black Award by her co-workers. Annie was awarded for her positive attitude in the face of adversity or challenge after only 10 months on the job which is a great accomplishment she’s earned.

“It’s my passion to help people in need and it fuels even more happiness and joy daily. This is a place where I want to stay,” adds Annie. “I am so glad to be able to use my trilingual skills, experience, and diversity background to assist anyone who is in need.”