Howard McElroy is a dedicated and compassionate individual who volunteered as OSWATS first president. As a patient living with sickle cell, Howard has navigated the disease since his earliest memory as a child. Despite suffering from small and large pain crises and numerous hospital stays throughout his 5 decades of life, Howard has never let his condition hold him back.

Howard's hospital stays and crisis have slowed his grade and high school studies, and he had to lengthen his college studies at the University of Oregon. Eventually, he had to move back home to Portland to finish his degree at Portland State University. Despite these challenges, he persevered and earned a communication degree from Portland State University.

With over 15 years of experience in management and sales, Howard has developed excellent leadership skills and a strong work ethic. He has also been a high school basketball coach for 30 years, dedicating his time to help teenage boys become young, respectful men. For the first 15 years after graduation, Howard worked full time in account and sales management, coaching youth basketball after work and on weekends. However, 15 years ago, he decided to become a full-time high school coach, which has been one of the most satisfying experiences of his life.

Howard's passion for coaching stems from his desire to help young minds grow and build young men who can make a positive impact on society. His mission as a high school basketball coach is to build men for others, and he finds nothing more rewarding than watching his players develop into respectful young adults.

With Howard's extensive experience and dedication, he is poised to make a significant impact as the new President of OSWATS. His firsthand experience with the disease and his leadership skills will undoubtedly help raise awareness and funds to support Oregon and southwest Washington’s community affected by sickle cell and thalassemia.

Howard McElroy Jr.