Robin Lawson is the founder and CEO of Passport To Languages Inc., a Portland-based company. She founded the interpreter services agency in 1987. Her mission was based upon the belief that all patients should have equitable access to language assistance, integrated into the daily practice of clinicians statewide.
Robin previously served on the Board for Healthcare Interpreting at Portland Community College throughout its existence. She was one of the original instructors while also developing content for the curriculum. She pioneered interpreter training programs at PCC by linking knowledgeable instructors with contracted interpreters while encouraging them to professionalize their education. Emphasis was directed at interpreter etiquette, fidelity and positioning. At the end of each course, interpreters received a certificate of completion, which verified their mastery of medical terminology and standards and ethics. This paved the way for national standards and accreditations years before the Oregon Health Authority established a formal statewide certification process.
Robin has also served on the Board for Telehealth Alliance for Oregon for over 11 years and is a member of OSTI. She received her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Education from the University of Washington in 1964.
