Ensuring student success remains the highest priority. In support of that goal, offering the most relevant programs while keeping tuition, fees and costs affordable is paramount. To that end, the college must work closely with employers to provide programs that are responsive to workforce needs.

Board members have two primary responsibilities, budget and policy. We must work diligently to set sustainable budgets, based on our primary funding sources; the State, property taxes, and tuition/fees. Much of this work requires being proactive at the Oregon Legislature.

My 17 years of combined experience as a Board member at Willamette ESD and Chemeketa Community College, along with nearly 28 years of City Council service has provided me with the background and leadership skills to continue to serve as an effective Board member. That has included extensive experience lobbying before local, state, and federal agencies

While many of our students to go on to four-year institutions, the majority obtain one year certificates or two year degrees and move directly into the workplace, particularly those in CTE programs. The key to providing resources for those programs to ensure equitable distribution is strong counseling programs for both entering and continuing students.