Jan 23, 2025 | Alumni, Community, Curry Campus, News
Southwestern Oregon Community College’s Hall of Fame Committee to honor former athletes, teams, coaches, and those that have had a large impact on the school and its athletic program. Two teams covering a wide range of Laker history will make up the Southwestern Oregon Community College Hall of Fame’s class of 2025.
The Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony will take place in Prosper Hall on the Coos Campus (1988 Newmark Ave., Coos Bay) Saturday, May 31, 2025, at 3:00pm during the annual sports awards.
This year’s inductees are the First Women’s and Men’s Soccer teams (1996-1997) coached by Shaun Kohn and assisted by Uele Hunkin*.
The women’s soccer team consisted of:
- Tara Orme*
- Hollee Scott*
- Heather Olson*
- Nicole Webber*
- Jamie Brock*
- Jamie Churchill*
- Aloha Yoshinaga*
- Robin Hughes*
- Shawn Darnell*
- Janet Johnson*
- Monica Butler*
- Brenda Horlacher*
- Mandy Perkins*
The men’s soccer team consisted of:
- Tuan Tran*
- Josh Beauchamp*
- Paul Sell*
- Larz Richardson*
- Kevin Hunt*
- Brandon Cranford*
- Jay Delateur*
- Jamie Flanagan*
- Tom McCullough*
- Dan Whaley*
- Nick Carapreso*
- Jeremy Smith
- John Hoshall*
The Hall of Fame committee is seeking help in locating team members designated with an asterisk (*). Anyone having information on the inductees can contact the Hall of Fame Committee at hof@socc.edu or call 541-888-7452.
Jan 22, 2025 | Community, News
COOS BAY, OR – Help us celebrate National Whale Day! Southwestern Oregon Community College invites 3rd to 6th grade students to join us for STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Math) FOR KIDS: “Whales Tales!” on Tuesday, February 18, 2025. This science-immersion event will be from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm in Umpqua Hall, on the Coos Campus, 1988 Newmark Ave., Coos Bay.
Students will engage with professors in hands-on activities in physics and engineering, chemistry, geology, biology, art, and more. This includes working alongside the College’s student research team SPEAR (STEAM Pathways Experimental & Academic Research), who are involved in various exciting STEAM projects.
There will also be an opportunity to experience the film “Blue Whales: Return of the Giants” in our Discovery Dome Planetarium. This digital theater space immerses students in a presentation that takes them on an adventure. “Blue Whales: Return of the Giants” explores the world of the magnificent blue whale, a species rebounding from the brink of extinction. Following two scientific expeditions—one to find a missing population of blues off the exotic Seychelles Islands, the other to chronicle whale families in Mexico’s stunning Gulf of California—the film is an inspirational story that transforms our understanding of the largest animal ever to have lived.
STEAM education projects help students visualize career pathways in science, technology, engineering, and math. The “A” adds in the arts, such as humanities, dance, drama, visual arts, and design. When people learn in all these areas together, they gain soft skills that can help grow ability in out-of-the-box thinking and collaboration.
Cost is $25 per person. Spots are limited. Scholarships are available. For more information on this event, registration, and scholarships contact Krystal Hopper Meyers, STEAM Pathways Assistant, at 541-888-7416, or krystal.hopper@socc.edu.
Jan 21, 2025 | Community, Curry Campus, News, Student Success
COOS BAY, OR – Southwestern Oregon Community College invites the community to join us on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, at 6:00 pm, for “The Case for Humans Hunting Ice Age Animals in Eastern Oregon 18,000 Years Ago” with Patrick O’Grady, Ph.D., District Archaeologist for Burns District Bureau of Land Management. This is a free event; all ages are welcome.
Coos County residents can join us in-person in the Umpqua Hall lecture room (room 184) on the Coos Campus, 1988 Newmark Ave., Coos Bay.
Curry County residents can join us for a watch party in the Community Room on the Curry Campus, 96082 Lone Ranch Parkway, Brookings.
For those not able to attend in person the lecture will be streamed live on the College’s YouTube channel at: www.youtube.com/@southwesternOR/streams.
About the Lecture:
Rimrock Draw Rockshelter (35HA3855) is a small and shallow rockshelter located in Harney County, Oregon at the north edge of the Great Basin. Situated in wide-open sagebrush steppe country, the location looks much like a thousand other nearby places where one might expect to find stone tools dating from the mid- to late-Holocene. However, the archaeological record at this site ends around 7,000 years ago, shortly after the cataclysmic eruption that formed Crater Lake from Mount Mazama, and human occupation of the site begins much earlier. Dates of 18,000 to 17,000 years before present have been obtained through high precision Accelerator Mass Spectrometry radiocarbon assays (AMS14C) on Camelops and Bison tooth enamel fragments collected from deeply buried archaeological deposits. The teeth are associated with stone tools and chipping debris indicating human contemporaneity at the site. Other evidence suggests that several genera of Pleistocene herbivores were butchered and consumed there. This presentation will include an overview of fieldwork at the rockshelter to contextualize the provenience of the dated enamel fragments.
About the Presenter:
Patrick O’Grady earned his Bachelors, Masters, and Ph.D. from the University of Oregon and worked for their Museum of Natural and Cultural History from 2005 until 2023. Before that, he worked for the Oregon Department of Transportation as a highway archaeologist. He is currently the District Archaeologist and Tribal Liaison for the Burns District Bureau of Land Management in southeastern Oregon where he did much of his research. O’Grady’s focus over the years has been on hunter-gatherer adaptations, Paleoamerican archaeology, geophysical field applications, and zooarchaeology, including the development of a substantial comparative osteological collection for the University of Oregon.
For more information about the lecture series contact Dr. Win McLaughlin, Assistant Professor, Geology at win.mclaughlin@socc.edu or 541-888-7002.
For more information on upcoming lectures contact Krystal Hopper Meyers, STEAM Pathways Assistant, at 541-888-7416, or krystal.hopper@socc.edu.
To learn more about STEM degrees at Southwestern visit: https://www.socc.edu/programs-classes/stem/.
Jan 16, 2025 | Community, Curry Campus
Brookings, OR – Southwestern Oregon Community College Curry Campus invites the community to join us on Thursday, February 13, 2025, 12:00 to 1:00 pm for: Greenhouse And Garden.
This is a free program sponsored by the Friends of Curry Campus and will be held in the Community Room on Southwestern’s Curry Campus, 96082 Lone Ranch Parkway (off Highway 101), Brookings. Bring a friend and a brown bag lunch.
Are you wondering what you should be doing in the garden this month and next? Do you know about the Greenhouse Project in Curry County? Would you like to know more about what the Curry County Master Gardeners offer the public?
Julia Bott is happy to answer these questions. Julia is an Oregon State University (OSU) Curry County Master Gardener – a volunteer since 2018.As a community volunteer Julia and other Master Gardeners help people with their sustainable gardening activities such as running the plant clinic, educational presentations, and school gardens. Currently she is one of numerous volunteers leading garden classes for 2nd and 4th graders at Kalmiopsis Elementary School in Brookings. Overall, OSU Curry County Master Gardener volunteers provide locally relevant scientific information for gardening in our area. Julia first became interested in gardening in college and had a job working in the organic garden to supply the college dorms. Gardening was new to Julia. She grew up in an area with no greenspace or gardens.
Julia said, “As a teenager I remember asking someone who did have a garden how deep their dirt went because I was only familiar with built environments with concrete and asphalt. Not all learning occurs in the classroom! That part time job in college changed my life. It may be why I’m so into school garden programs.”
There are two things that guide Julia. “First, I always remind myself I am a gardener, not a farmer. It’s all about scale. Secondly, it doesn’t have to look pretty to taste great. I grow and eat a lot of vegetables that can be compared to a Charlie Brown Christmas tree.”
Explore, grow, and create with the Friends of Curry Campus on the second Thursday of every month during the school year. Stay tuned for upcoming talks in our speaker series. For more information contact the Curry Campus at 541-813-1667.
Jan 15, 2025 | Community, Curry News, News, OCCI News
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.
Jan 14, 2025 | Community, Curry News, News
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.
Jan 13, 2025 | OCCI News
Join us for the first Winter Term Pop-Up Bakery Sale of 2025!
Start your morning right with freshly made croissants and a selection of coffee drinks.
📅 Date: Tuesday, January 14, 2025
⏰ Time: 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
📍 Location: OCCI, 1988 Newmark Ave., Coos Bay
No pre-orders—first come, first served. Don’t miss out!
Jan 6, 2025 | Curry Campus, News
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.
Jan 6, 2025 | Curry Campus, News
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.
Jan 2, 2025 | Community, Foundation, News
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.
