Mitra is currently running for Clatsop County Commissioner, District 3 (Astoria), seeking to replace Commissioner Pam Wev.
She was appointed to the Clatsop Community College Board of Education in May 2023 and was subsequently elected in May 2025 to a four-year term. She currently serves as a member representing Zone 2, Position 2.
In January 2026, Mitra was appointed to the Transportation Advisory Committee for the Sunset Empire Transportation District (SETD), which provides public transportation services throughout Clatsop County.
Education
- Master of Arts, Education – George Fox University, 1998 (Newberg, Oregon)
- Bachelor of Arts, Mass-Media Communication – University of Akron, 1981 (Akron, Ohio)
- Associate of Arts, Political Science / Social Sciences – Richmond College, 1980 (Richmond, England)
Background
Mitra was born in Tehran, Iran, and speaks English, Farsi, and French. She was the youngest language instructor for the American Peace Corps, reflecting her lifelong commitment to education, service, and cross-cultural understanding.
Professional Experience
Mitra and her husband moved to Astoria in 1992. She taught at Clatsop Community College, opened a local restaurant, and served as a substitute teacher for the Astoria School District.
In 2000, she began working at the Tongue Point Job Corps as a career counselor. Over time, she advanced into senior leadership and ultimately became a Center Director, a role she held at four different Job Corps centers across the United States.
Throughout her career, Mitra has served as an Executive Board member for numerous workforce and economic councils. Her experience includes working closely with municipal, state, and federal governments; lobbying Congress on Job Corps funding; meeting with U.S. Senators and Members of the House of Representatives; and supporting civic organizations in implementing Presidential Initiatives focused on youth training and employment.
Awards & Recognition
- Women of Inspiration Award – Southern California Council, American Business Women’s Association
- Go Long Beach Award – City of Long Beach, California, recognizing leadership and impact on staff and student success
- Most Improved Job Corps Center Award – U.S. Department of Labor, San Francisco Regional Office