I’ve spent nearly 20 years as a marketer, communicator and instructor in education-centered organizations, including eight recent years in public higher ed where I made measurable contributions to recruitment, retention and reputation efforts. I’ve witnessed first-hand how community colleges jumpstart opportunity, interrupt generational poverty, fuel skilled trades and strong workforces, and fill society with critical thinkers and changemakers.

 

•  I work in K-12 and am in touch with the aspirations of potential COCC students. There is no one-size-fits-all offering in post-secondary education, and COCC adds tremendous value by offering a variety of options and entry points to help students achieve their goals.

• As an instructor and storyteller at Portland State -- where half of undergrads are transfers --  I saw the head start that so many students enjoyed as a result of their community college experience.

• I believe in community education, both inside and outside of the classroom, through thought-provoking courses, special events and exhibitions. Opportunities like lifelong learning courses, Cascade Culinary Institute, music, Season of Nonviolence, Chandler Lecture Series and rotating art exhibits enrich our broader community in meaningful ways.

• I understand how an educational institution functions, how decisions are made, and how those decisions impact all of the school’s constituents. Education is at a turning point across the nation -- I'll be a voice for innovation, collaboration and responsiveness to meet the current and anticipated needs of our community.
   

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I'll be an effective representative of my Zone 5 neighbors by listening to learn, staying curious, thinking big and participating in civil discourse. Together we will ensure that COCC is prosperous and an accessible asset to our community.