Oregon’s community colleges & public universities thank legislature for protecting higher education funding
The Coalition of Oregon Public Universities (OPU) and the Oregon Community College Association (OCCA) have expressed appreciation to Oregon legislators for maintaining funding for the Community College Support Fund, the Public University Support Fund, and state-based financial aid programs during the 2026 Legislative Session. As lawmakers worked to balance the state budget in a challenging fiscal environment, both organizations acknowledged the difficult choices legislators faced and thanked them for preserving investments that help students access affordable education and help employers build a skilled workforce.
OCCA responds to latest revenue forecast
February 4, 2026 – This morning’s quarterly revenue forecast shows a modest but meaningful improvement in Oregon’s overall fiscal outlook. While this forecast reflects a more stable near-term revenue picture, it does not eliminate the structural pressures facing public services.
Community Colleges Celebrate CTE Month as the Backbone of Oregon’s Workforce and Economy
Throughout February, Oregon’s community colleges will celebrate National Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month by highlighting the programs that power the state’s workforce and strengthen local economies. Community Colleges WORK for Oregon, and Career and Technical Education programs are at the heart of that impact.
As part of National CTE Month, the Oregon Community College Association (OCCA), in partnership with Oregon’s 17 community colleges, will host CTE Day at the Capitol on February 18.
Oregon community colleges see fourth year of continued enrollment growth
Oregon’s community colleges are experiencing strong enrollment growth this fall. Fourth‑week data released Nov. 20 by the state’s Higher Education Coordinating Commission (HECC) shows continued increases in both overall headcount and Full‑Time Equivalent (FTE) enrollment at most colleges across the state, underscoring growing demand and momentum across Oregon’s community college system.
OCCA urges continued support for funding
November 19 – The State of Oregon today released its quarterly revenue forecast for the 2025–27 biennium, showing a marked improvement in the state’s fiscal outlook. The Office of Economic Analysis now projects a $63.1 million shortfall, a significant reduction from the previously forecasted $373 million deficit in August. Economists propose this turnaround is driven by stronger corporate tax receipts and improved national economic expectations, despite ongoing concerns about slower growth and federal policy impacts.
Ken Hector receives National Trustee Leadership Award from ACCT
The Oregon Community College Association (OCCA) proudly congratulates Ken Hector, longtime Chemeketa Community College Board of Education member, on receiving the 2025 Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT) Trustee Leadership Award, the highest national honor given to a community college trustee.
OCCA Communications Director named NCMPR District 7 Communicator of the Year
The Oregon Community College Association (OCCA) proudly announces that Communications Director Casey White-Zollman has been named the 2025 Communicator of the Year by District 7 of the National Council for Marketing & Public Relations (NCMPR), which includes the Pacific Northwest and western Canada. This award honors exceptional leadership and impact in college communications. As the District 7 recipient, White-Zollman is now a finalist for NCMPR’s national award, to be announced in March at the annual conference in Washington, D.C.
OCCA announces 2025 Howard Cherry Banquet honorees
September 17, 2025 – The Oregon Community College Association (OCCA) proudly announces the recipients of the 2025 Howard Cherry Awards, which are Oregon’s highest recognition for individuals whose leadership, advocacy, and service have made a lasting impact on community colleges and the students they serve. In addition, OCCA has announced the recipient of the Chuck Clemans Award, which is bestowed upon a community college board member who has shown exemplary dedication statewide.
OCCA responds to latest revenue forecast
Following this morning’s state revenue forecast projecting a $373 million shortfall in Oregon’s general fund due to federal tax changes, the Oregon Community College Association (OCCA) encourages lawmakers to stay the course on investing in Oregon’s 17 community colleges.
Oregon’s Community Colleges Receive $854.4M in State Funding — A Step Forward, But Challenges Remain
The Legislature has approved $854.4 million for Oregon’s Community College Support Fund (CCSF) in SB 5525 for the 2025–27 biennium — a 6.9% increase from the previous cycle but well below the $920 million needed to sustain programs, services, and rising student enrollment.