Kyle Crooke
The thing about a story is that you dream it as you tell it, hoping that others might then dream along with you, and in this way memory and imagination and language combine to make spirits in the head. There is the illusion of aliveness.— Tim O'Brien, The Things They Carried
Kyle’s unique background of international aid work, social justice through sports, and hospitality lends itself to being Metropolitan Group’s office manager. He believes in the power of connection and thrives in being the bridge builder for people of different backgrounds. He is empowered by meaningful work and believes that action is the best device for learning.
As an international studies student, Kyle focused primarily on communication within different cultures. With a passion for Slavic studies, he began taking classes at Moscow State University and then began research throughout the former Yugoslavia. During this time, Kyle was particularly struck by the dehumanization of marginalized groups. This intensified his desire to concentrate his life’s work in helping give voice, opportunity, recognition and justice to marginalized communities and people.
His areas of expertise include:
- Seeking out and solving complex and unfamiliar problems
- Identifying and removing systemic inefficiencies
- Transforming ideas into action
Experience
Kyle has a dual degree in International Studies/Diplomacy and Russian/Eastern European Studies, with a minor in Business Administration from the University of Oregon. He also studied at Moscow State University during his junior year of college.
In Community
Having a deep love for soccer, Kyle has experience coaching the Portland Thorns youth teams, as well as volunteering for Street Soccer USA, whose goal is to create street leagues across the country and empower underserved communities through soccer. When he’s not playing soccer, you can find Kyle fly fishing, hiking and spending time with his partner and their blue heeler, Gracie.