April 2013 - Mark Griffin

Driven in his quest towards fluency in Spanish, Mark’s dedication and inspiring community work make him a true asset to the Tierra community. An attorney who focuses his practice on protecting workers and consumers from fraud, discrimination, and illegal employment practices, he has positively impacted the lives of many in the region in his tireless fight for justice. He takes advantage of his language skills to communicate with his Spanish-speaking clients, as well as with his multi-cultural family. Endowed with a great sense of humor and fascinated by the diverse cultures of Latin America, Mark’s warmth and curiosity enrich Spanish class  for everyone.

Name: Mark Griffin
Occupation: Attorney; Griffin & McCandlish
Time Studying at Tierra: About 1 year

1) Why are you studying Spanish?

"Learning Spanish helps me professionally because I have represented many Spanish speaking clients.  Even though I use interpreters for courtroom work, my informal conversations with my clients helps to establish a better personal relationship with them.  I also enjoy speaking Spanish with my son-in-law, who is from Oaxaca, and my two grandsons, who are bilingual."

2) What is your favorite part about your experience here at Tierra?

"I've had a series of very good teachers. This variety has exposed me to different accents and idioms as well as the different interests of the teachers.  This rich cultural experience makes Spanish studies even more interesting. I also have been lucky to be with the same classmates for most of my time at Tierra. It’s a diverse and unique group of individuals.  -Una clase muy amable-."

3) Can you tell us of a time you have been able to use what you have learned studying here?

"I am using it now.  I represent a group of farmworkers in the Tri-Cities and employees at the Del Monte processing plant in North Portland.  Many of those workers are Spanish speaking.  I'm also reading bedtime stories to my grandsons, Diego and Javier.  They are  not shy about helping me with my pronunciation."

¡Felicidades Mark!