Collection is open to the public. Collection must be used in Special Collections and University Archives Reading Room. Collection or parts of collection may be stored offsite. Please contact Special Collections and University Archives in advance of your visit to allow for transportation time. Collection includes sound recordings, moving images, and digital files to which access is restricted. Access to these materials is governed by repository policy and may require the production of listening or viewing copies. Researchers requiring access must notify Special Collections and University Archives in advance and pay fees for reproduction services as necessary.
Nancy Ryles (1937-1990) was a Republican politician who served in both the Oregon House of Representatives (1979-1982) and the Oregon Senate (1983-1987). She also served on the Oregon Public Utility Commission from 1987-1990, the first woman to do so. She was an advocate for women's rights, minority equality, and Death with Dignity. She worked closely with the Beaverton School District in advocacy of education, and an elementary school in the district was named after her in 1992. Nancy grew up in Portland and married Vernon Ryles Jr. in 1957. Nancy died of cancer on September 12, 1990 at age 52.
The Nancy Ryles papers include material relating to Ryles time as an Oregon legislator, including materials relating to Death with Dignity, education and schools, and her campaigns. Records include correspondence, photographs, audiocassettes, subject files, and other materials.