VOTE411 Voter Guide

My priorities are centered on creating meaningful educational opportunities and breaking down barriers. I am committed to supporting students by continuing to fight for comprehensive wrap-around services that address their holistic needs. Student voices are important and should be incorporated into decision-making processes. I want to expand educational access by removing barriers related to immigration status, income, work schedules, and other potential obstacles that might prevent individuals from pursuing higher education. I value the creation of clear career pathways, where our community members are presented with opportunities for skills and training that lead them to well-paying jobs that support Lane’s workforce needs.

I have 14 years of experience in workforce development, business services, community organizing, labor relations, and education. I had the honor of serving as the Vice Chair of Klamath Community College and, previously, as the Chair of Lane Community College. I currently serve as President of the Oregon Community College Association, where I work with higher education partners to advocate for all 17 community colleges across Oregon.

I see education as a powerful tool for economic mobility, and it should not be a zero-sum game or a choice of one or the other between CTE and other educational pathways. We, as a community college, should support both avenues and look at ways they could overlap or support each other. I want to work on strengthening Equitable Credit Transfer systems to maximize the transferability of credits. I also want to continue building partnerships with those who are investing in our Lane Workforce Development, so we are creating clear pathways to good-paying jobs. Our role as an educational institution is to meet the needs of both our students and the community, which makes us all stronger in the long run.

Increase sustainability by creating ways to connect to the community and students so that they are more engaged in campus learning. Ensure the district maintains a healthy reserve for economic uncertainties to safeguard against financial instability. Enrollment is another challenge that needs to be addressed, as well as creating new programs, being more involved in community events, and providing more opportunities for student growth.

I have served as a trustee for San Joaquin Delta College, which has given me a better understanding of the college's business aspect. I am committed to professional development, including completing the CCLC Excellence in Trusteeship certification. I have also served on the diverse committee for the Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT). I've adopted policies to align with student success and academic achievement. I've also helped to develop a better collective understanding of students' experiences, the institutional barriers that challenge their success, systemwide reforms, and potential solutions.

Develop and promote contract education programs to meet the specific training needs of local businesses and industries. Encourage the development of strategic planning that helps colleges work together to better serve communities and address potential future enrollments in non-traditional populations. Review and update board values, policies, and commitment statements to ensure conditions exist to support collaborative partnership development by staff with businesses, universities, and government agencies. These opportunities will help direct students to a four-year institution and allow them to be prepared to find professional employment in any field or transfer to a four-year university.