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Statement from Southwestern Oregon Community College

At Southwestern Oregon Community College, we believe in the power of second chances and the potential for personal growth and rehabilitation. Recently, questions have been raised about our decision to hire an employee with a prior criminal record. We want to address these concerns directly and transparently.

Our hiring process is thorough and considers a wide range of factors, including the individual’s qualifications, experience, as well as a thorough state and federal background check. In 2010, when hiring this individual in our Adult Learning Skills Program, we carefully reviewed the circumstances of the individual’s past and their efforts towards rehabilitation. In addition, we worked with their probation officer to ensure that employment as an adjunct faculty member in our Adult Learning Skills Program was a positive step for all concerned. Given that the individual was not deemed to be an active safety threat by the State of Oregon criminal justice system once the sentence was complete and did not have restrictions related to teaching in our program at the College, we made the decision to move forward with employment.

This individual thrived in this role and has gone on to hold several positions at our College without issue; including Technical Resource Assistant and Laker Learning Commons Coordinator and becoming the classified union president in 2018, representing the hard-working staff members of SWOCC.  In 2021, this employee applied for, interviewed, and was hired as the Director of Adult and Pre-College Education and Tutoring Services. This position provides leadership for Adult & Pre-College Education and tutoring programs on campus. The Director manages the College’s Federal Adult Education and Family Literacy Act Title II grant, while overseeing the tutoring center for our College students. In addition, the Director supports and advocates for the continuing education of students from the Adult Basic Skills (ABS), GED, and English as a Second Language (ESL) programs. The Director supervises full- and part-time staff and faculty, classified staff, and college student workers. The Director does not provide tutoring to students, but does lead the tutor certification course for our peer tutors employed by the College each term. While our GED program does have students from our K-12 partners from time to time, the Director does not provide instruction. All instruction is provided by full time or adjunct faculty members employed by the College.

In this role, the individual has received accolades from state and federal partners for their work with adult students working to receive their GED’s and the break the cycle of generational socioeconomic poverty. This employee has worked hard to overcome their past while contributing meaningfully to our campus community and continued to have background checks and monitoring as required by the State and College. The individual is no longer required to register with the Oregon Parole Board and has been employed since 2010 without issue.

We understand that this employment decision has raised concerns, and we are committed to maintaining an open dialogue with our community. We believe that providing opportunities for those who have demonstrated a commitment to turning their lives around aligns with our mission of fulfilling the educational and cultural needs of our diverse communities by providing equitable access to exceptional teaching and learning in a collaborative, engaging, sustainable environment, which supports innovation, lifelong enrichment, and contribution to global society.

We appreciate your understanding and support as we continue to create a welcoming and supportive environment at Southwestern Oregon Community College. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out at publicinformation@socc.edu.

Sincerely,

President Patty Scott

OCCI Hosts Event for Prospective High School Students and Families – Feb. 6, 2025

OCCI Hosts Event for Prospective High School Students and Families – Feb. 6, 2025

Coos Bay, OR – High school students with an interest in the culinary and baking arts are invited to a special evening of exploration at Oregon Coast Culinary Institute (OCCI) on Thursday, February 6th, from 4:00 – 6:30 p.m. This free event offers a unique opportunity to experience the world of cooking and learn about a future in the culinary field.

Attendees will enjoy live cooking demonstrations, participate in an engaging Q&A session, and meet OCCI’s talented chefs, instructors, and staff. Whether you’re dreaming of a career in the culinary arts or just curious about the craft, this is your chance to get hands-on insights in a fun and focused setting.

Event Details

  • What: OCCI Experience Event for High School Students and their Families
  • When: Thursday, February 6, 2025 from 4:00 – 6:30 p.m.
  • Where: Oregon Coast Culinary Institute, 1988 Newmark Ave., Coos Bay
  • Cost: Free
  • RSVP: Email or call 541-888-7309 to reserve your spot

Space is limited, so RSVPs are highly encouraged! Don’t miss this chance to discover your culinary potential at OCCI.

Can’t make it to the event? Learn more about OCCI’s Culinary Arts and Baking & Pastry Arts programs at www.socc.edu/occi, where you can also schedule a personalized campus tour. OCCI offers scholarships, financial aid, and nationally recognized culinary education to help you achieve your career goals.

About Oregon Coast Culinary Institute (OCCI)

The Oregon Coast Culinary Institute (OCCI) is a professionally accredited culinary institution at Southwestern Oregon Community College located in Coos Bay, Oregon. OCCI offers both degrees and certificates in Culinary Arts and Baking & Pastry Arts. The school is renowned for providing comprehensive culinary training programs that equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in the culinary industry. With a focus on hands-on learning, experienced faculty, and affordable programs, OCCI is committed to nurturing culinary talent and shaping the next generation of talented chefs. For more information, visit www.socc.edu/occi.

New Pilot Program Prepares Southwestern Graduates to Meet Critical Mental Health Needs

New Pilot Program Prepares Southwestern Graduates to Meet Critical Mental Health Needs

Southwestern Oregon Community College is helping to meet the growing need for mental health care providers in our community through a new statewide pilot program. Under this program, students completing the Human Services Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree can register as Qualified Mental Health Associates (QMHA-Rs) immediately upon graduation.

This initiative, launched by the Oregon Health Authority in collaboration with the Mental Health and Addiction Certification Board of Oregon (MHACBO), educational institutions, and behavioral health organizations, provides a streamlined pathway to QMHA certification. By combining education requirements with supervised practicum hours completed through local partnering providers, the program expands the workforce and enables graduates to meet critical community needs.

“Our local partners have expressed a growing need for trained mental health associates,” said Jenn Lewis, Assistant Professor of Psychology and Human Services Program Coordinator at Southwestern. “This pilot program empowers our students to meet that demand and make an immediate, meaningful impact in our community.”

Southwestern’s Human Services AAS degree equips students with foundational skills and real-world experience for a career in mental health support. The program includes coursework in counseling, ethics, crisis intervention, and multicultural issues, along with hands-on training through local practicum opportunities.

For students, this provides even more opportunity to work in the high-demand field of mental health care more quickly. The QMHA Pilot Program runs from winter 2025 through spring 2029. Southwestern is proud to play a role in strengthening the behavioral health workforce and supporting healthier, more resilient communities.

Students interested in pursuing Human Services at Southwestern and becoming eligible to register as QMHA-Rs upon graduating should connect with our admissions team via Email or text “Human Services” or call 541-240-8227.

Nursing Program Applications Available Jan. 2 – Feb. 15 for Fall Term 2025 Start Date

Nursing Program Applications Available Jan. 2 – Feb. 15 for Fall Term 2025 Start Date

Looking to become a nurse?

Applications to Southwestern’s Nursing Program are available January 2 – February 15, 2025 at 5:00 p.m. This is your opportunity to pursue an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing at Southwestern Oregon Community College and begin your journey toward a fulfilling career in healthcare. These applications are for prospective nursing students looking to join Southwestern’s Nursing Program cohort starting Fall 2025.

For all the details about how to apply—including key dates, an overview of the program, and admission requirements—visit the Apply to Nursing Program web page. Southwestern’s Nursing Program is a restricted-entry program, so be sure to review the eligibility criteria before submitting your application.

Join us for an online Nursing Program Information Session!

  • WHEN: January 15, 2025 at 3:00 p.m.
  • WHERE: Join online via Zoom (Meeting ID: 952 3787 5477)
  • WHAT: Learn everything you need to know about the application process, admission requirements, and deadlines. If you can’t attend, a recording will be available afterward.

 

Still have questions after reviewing the Apply to Nursing Program page? Contact Amber Schiro via Email or at 541-888-7443 for assistance.

Southwestern Oregon Community College Awarded Federal Grant to Expand Workforce Training Programs

Southwestern Oregon Community College Awarded Federal Grant to Expand Workforce Training Programs

COOS BAY, OR – Southwestern Oregon Community College (SWOCC) is the only state college and one of only 18 colleges nationwide to receive a prestigious federal Strengthening Community Colleges Training Grant from the U.S. Department of Labor. SWOCC will receive $1.5 million to expand workforce training to meet the growing demand for skilled workers, leveraging partnerships with local businesses to offer targeted training in the Transportation and Manufacturing Sectors.

“This grant will support the creation of a diesel mechanic program, training for Commercial Driver’s Licenses, the expanded operation of our pre-apprenticeship program in heavy equipment, as well as the establishment of a millwright registered apprenticeship program,” said Dr. Ali Mageehon, Vice President of Instruction at Southwestern. “We estimate serving over 300 students in these programs over the next four years.”

The Strengthening Community Colleges Training Grant program is part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s broader efforts to invest $65 million in workforce development and close the skills gap that many employers face. The initiative is designed to provide workers with the skills they need to secure stable, well-paying jobs while supporting the broader regional economy.

“This funding also supports our mission to provide equitable educational opportunities for all our students, especially those from underrepresented communities,” Mageehon said.

The grant program is designed to ensure people from rural areas, women, Hispanic individuals, and veterans have equal opportunities to train for these fields.

“Southwestern Oregon Community College is committed to providing our students with the skills they need to succeed in today’s fast-changing job market,” said Dr. Patty Scott, President of Southwestern. “This grant will allow us to partner with local businesses and industries to ensure that our training programs meet the specific needs of employers in our region, while also improving access to high-quality education for all of our students.”

The Strengthening Community Colleges Training Grant program is administered by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration. Since its inception, the program has provided millions in funding to colleges nationwide, helping to expand and improve workforce training and educational opportunities in critical sectors such as healthcare, information technology, and infrastructure.

Southwestern Uncorking Opportunity Scholarship Fundraiser – Jan. 31, 2025

Southwestern Uncorking Opportunity Scholarship Fundraiser – Jan. 31, 2025

Coos Bay, OR – The Southwestern Oregon Community College Foundation in collaboration with the Oregon Coast Culinary Institute (OCCI) invites guests 21 years and older to attend Uncorking Opportunity! on Friday, Jan. 31, 2025. The event featuring fantastic food, fun and friends takes place from 6-8 p.m., at OCCI, 1988 Newmark Ave., Coos Bay.

This is the Foundation’s annual scholarship fundraiser and biggest event of the year. Enjoy an evening of conversation and delectable hors d’oeuvres prepared by student chefs and specially paired with Oregon wines provided by well-known wineries from the Rogue, Umpqua and Willamette Valleys. The event also features both a silent and small live auction of adventures and fun learning opportunities.

Tickets are $95 per person, available at www.socc.edu/give. Thanks to sponsor support, 100 percent of ticket proceeds and funds raised go to scholarships for culinary students and others pursuing degrees and training at Southwestern’s Coos and Curry campuses.

This year’s sponsors to-date include: Al Peirce Co., Bandon Dunes Golf Resort, Coos Bay Vision Center, Umpqua Bank, NW Natural, Scott Partney Construction, Bradford McKeown Financial Advisor and The Mill Casino-Hotel. Participating wineries include: Elk Cove Winery, Kriselle Cellars, Abacella Winery, Dobbes Family Winery, Willamette Valley Vineyards and King Estate.

Examples of some of the auction adventure items include:

  • Tickets to an exclusive Winemaker’ Dinner featuring King Estate Vineyards and the college’s culinary competition team in April 2025
  • Private OCCI Group Cooking Class
  • Hot Air Balloon Ride for Two
  • A night at the Ashland Springs Hotel with a Shakespeare play
  • One-Week Stay in Hawaii
  • “Name Your Own” Scholarship

and so much more!

Space is limited! It is highly recommended people secure tickets in advance. Reservations are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. To purchase tickets, go to www.socc.edu/give. For more information, contact the Southwestern Foundation at 541-888-7209 or email foundation@socc.edu.

SWOCC Foundation Uncorking Opportunity! Event Overview:

**Important: Guests must be 21+ years old**

  • Date/Time: Friday, January 31, 2025 from 6-8 p.m.
  • Location: OCCI, 1988 Newmark Ave. Coos Bay, OR
  • RSVP: Reservations are highly encouraged as space is limited. Secure your spot by purchasing at socc.edu/give. Call 541-888-7209 or email foundation@socc.edu.
  • Cost: $95 per person – Includes 6+ wine & hors d’oeuvre pairings; access to silent/live auction and an evening of fun conversation with OCCI student chefs. 100% of ticket proceeds goes directly to student scholarships.

 

About the Southwestern Oregon Community College Foundation

Since 1962, the Southwestern Foundation has supported the College to improve people’s lives – socially, culturally, economically and educationally – through friend-raising and fundraising. The College serves Curry, Coos and western Douglas county residents’ needs for transfer degrees, high-skill job training and community classes. For more information about the foundation, visit www.socc.edu/foundation.

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