Victor Atiyeh stands behind a podium with UO letters on it, he speaks into a mic.

In his first year as governor of Oregon, Victor Atiyeh spoke at the 1979 University of Oregon Commencement.

Victor Atiyeh 1923-2014

Governor of Oregon from 1979- 1987

Born in Portland to immigrant parents, Victor George Atiyeh was elected Governor of Oregon in 1979, becoming the first Syrian American to serve as governor in the United States. 

Atiyeh attended the University of Oregon from 1941 to 1943 on a football scholarship. At the time of his father’s death in 1943, however, he left school to take over the family’s carpet business in Portland. He remained an active supporter of the university and the Ducks throughout his life, honored with the UO’s Pioneer Award and Distinguished Service Award. 

A lifelong Republican, Atiyeh’s political career began with several terms in the Oregon House of Representatives and Oregon State Senate. Known as a fiscal conservative and exponent of efficiency in government, he would also champion many progressive policies during his decades in service. 

As a two-term governor (1979-87) he faced many significant challenges. In the early 1980s, with Oregon facing its worst recession, Atiyeh recognized the need to diversify the state’s timber-and fishing-based economy. The eruption of Mount St. Helens and conflicts surrounding the establishment of the Rajneeshpuram commune in Central Oregon also occurred during his term in office. 

As governor, Atiyeh frequently travelled abroad, promoting international investment in Oregon and earning the nickname “Trader Vic.” He opened the state’s first overseas trade office in Tokyo, created incentives for business relocations, and launched a worldwide tourism initiative. Among his other achievements in office were designation of the Columbia River Gorge as a National Scenic Area, creation of Oregon Food Share, appointment of women to prominent state positions, federal recognition of several Oregon tribal nations, and the first laws in the U.S. against hate crimes. 

Read more about Governor Victor Atiyeh

– Gov. Victor G. Atiyeh

– Oregon Emcyclopedia: Victor Atiyeh (1923-2014)

Victor Atiyeh runs on an open field toward the camera in a University of Oregon football jersey.

Victor Atiyeh at a UO football practice in 1943. He was a linebacker on the team and was offered a spot to play with the Green Bay Packers after graduating, which he declined.

Victor Atiyeh smiles smiles in photo taken of him at 89 years old.

Victor Atiyeh, 2012.