Congratulations to the 2026 Sasser Scholarship recipients! The Sasser MAC employee scholarship celebrates the amazing employees of the Multnomah Athletic Club who are energetic and confident members of our community. The scholarship honors Fay Sasser’s 44 years of exceptional and dedicated service at the Club. Each recipient receives a $5,000 scholarship.
Jacob Irving is pursuing a degree in Mechanical Engineering at Oregon State University and continues to exemplify hard work, leadership, and perseverance. A returning Fay Sasser Scholarship recipient, Jacob has balanced a demanding engineering program, campus involvement, and part-time work while staying committed to graduating debt-free.
As a Head Lifeguard and swim instructor at MAC, Jacob leads with professionalism, accountability, and care. He mentors fellow staff members, creates a safe environment for members, and demonstrates the confidence and leadership that define the spirit of this scholarship.
Ayla Martin recently graduated magna cum laude from Portland State University with a degree in Psychology and a minor in Philosophy. This fall, she will begin her Master of Social Work at Columbia University.
Ayla’s academic excellence is matched by her passion for serving others. While balancing full-time studies with her work as a server and hostess at MAC, she launched a sustainable fundraising initiative supporting Brain Injury Connections Northwest, building partnerships with local businesses to expand critical services for individuals living with brain injuries. Her compassion, initiative, and commitment to community embody the legacy of Fay Sasser.
Lyla Perry is a 2026 graduate of Beaverton High School Beaverton High School, Lyla Perry will continue her academic and athletic career at Lane Community College while competing in collegiate soccer and taking classes through the University of Oregon.
An outstanding student-athlete, Lyla earned recognition as the state’s top goalkeeper with All-State and All-Metro honors while serving as captain of her soccer team. At MAC, she works in Child Care, where she has built meaningful relationships with children through patience, empathy, and encouragement. Inspired by these experiences, Lyla plans to become a child therapist, helping young people build emotional resilience and confidence.
Nat Ross graduated from Portland State University in 2026 and will continue their education by pursuing a Master of Urban and Regional Planning.
Throughout college, Nat balanced a rigorous academic schedule with nearly full-time work in MAC’s Aquatics department while dedicating time to community service through organizations such as Blanchet House. Their professional growth has included roles as a lifeguard, swim instructor, aquatics coordinator, and most recently, Red Cross Lifeguard Instructor. By teaching lifesaving CPR and first aid skills, Nat has strengthened their own leadership while empowering others to serve their communities with confidence and care.
Investing in the Future
The Fay Sasser Scholarship recognizes more than academic achievement. It celebrates employees who lead by example, invest in their communities, and demonstrate the values that make the Multnomah Athletic Club such a special place.
Congratulations to Jacob, Ayla, Lyla, and Nat. We are honored to support your educational journeys and look forward to seeing the lasting impact each of you will make.