Member Mirror: Khaliyah Williams-Rodriguez

Submitted by Peter Schmidt

When did you begin biking and why? When did you join the PWTC and why? 

I have always enjoyed biking/cycling but I started cycling with PWTC in March 2017 as a way to help prepare for Reach the Beach. After my experience with RTB, I grew with my passion and joy for cycling. I also realized that I needed to exercise regularly and this was an “easier” way to do it.

How many miles do you typically ride in a year? Club rides, or independent rides? 

During 2017, I rode 1,300 miles. During 2018, I rode 1,500 miles.

You must have a favorite bike in your stable. What bike is it, and how many others do you have?

While I do have two bicycles, the other is a mountain bike. I rarely use this bicycle. My frequent flyer bicycle is a Trek, which I received from a friend – who is a triathlon adventurer.

What do you find most enjoyable about biking?  Is there anything about the activity that you don’t like?

I enjoy traveling around the Portland metropolitan area and learning more about the urban/suburban areas that surround Portland. It is exciting to see neighborhoods and streets from a different point of view. I appreciate the serenity when I ride and the exercise. Riding in the rain or extreme cold temperatures is not my favorite, and I need to learn to change a flat tire!

In addition to cycling, do you have other hobbies, interests or pursuits?

I have developed a love for “hot yoga.” I have always enjoyed dancing, music, and photography. I have also been certified as a doula, but my full-time job as a Elementary School Administrator takes me away from working with families who are giving birth.

While we would all like to be biking full time, unfortunately, we must work to support this and other habits. What kind of work do you currently do?

I received a doctorate in Psychology at the University of Oregon in 2000. It was the graduate school experience that brought me to Oregon from New York City. I met my husband – Adrian – at the University of Oregon in 1998 and we have been together since that time. Upon graduation, I worked in North Clackamas School District as a:

• School Psychologist,
• Assistant Principal,
• Principal, and
• Associate Director.

I am currently the Executive Director, Elementary Programs. I enjoy my responsibility and the people I work with each day. I learn so much from students, staff, and families.

What is a surprising fact about you that your fellow club members might find interesting?

I am a dual citizen of the USA and Barbados. I am also a wife and mother of two teenage boys.