Dr. DeNorval Unthank was a Portlander by way of Pennsylvania, Kansas City, and Washington D.C. Throughout his career as a doctor, he worked at Good Samaritan, Providence, St Vincent, and Emanuel Hospitals, as well as starting his own practice. An important figure in the early civil rights movement in Portland, Unthank opened many doors and opportunities for other minorities, winning several awards, breaking down racial barriers, and serving as the president of the local chapter of the NAACP.