OCCA Annual Conference

Mark your calendars for the 2026 OCCA Annual Conference:
November 4-6, 2026
Sunriver Resort, Sunriver, OR

The OCCA Annual Conference brings together college board members and administrators to learn more about how to be empowered and become advocates on statewide community college issues. The conference provides a structure for learning more about current issues and exploring the roles and responsibilities board members can play in providing leadership that ensures Oregon’s community colleges remain vibrant institutions that provide equitable educational opportunities for all.

Registration opens this summer!

Hotel Information

Book your room at the beautiful Sunriver Resort today at a special conference rate of $125/night* plus tax.

Call 855-420-8206 and mention “OCCA” to make a reservation. Room availability is limited, so book your room early! The last day to reserve under this rate is October 14, 2026.

*Please note that this rate is based on the prevailing GSA per diem and is subject to change.

Conference Cancellation Policy

Cancellations after October 16 are not eligible for a refund but may be transferred to another person without penalty. Please notify OCCA of any registration transfers by Oct. 26.

Call for Conference Breakout Session Presentations

The 2026 Conference will highlight how Community Colleges WORK for Oregon — and the critical role board members, college leaders, and partners play in that success. OCCA invites dynamic, engaging proposals that showcase innovative practices, effective strategies, and meaningful outcomes that demonstrate how community colleges are working for students, communities, and the state.

Proposal submissions are now closed.

Who Should Submit

OCCA welcomes proposals from:

Community college board members
College presidents and administrators
Faculty and staff
State and local partners
Workforce and industry partners
Nonprofit and community-based organizations

NOTE FOR VENDORS: Preference will be given to vendors who are presenting in partnership with an OCCA-member college. Vendors are required to be a conference exhibitor or sponsor to present a breakout session.

Conference Audience

Approximately 120-150 attendees, including:

Locally elected community college board members
College presidents and executive leadership
Administrators, faculty, and staff
State and community partners

Session Format

All sessions will be 60 minutes in length. OCCA encourages interactive and engaging sessions. Formats may include:

Presentations
Panel discussions
Facilitated discussions or roundtables
Workshops

Conference Session Tracks

All proposals should align with the conference theme and fit within one of the following tracks:

1. TRACK 1

[Description]

Examples include:

Example A
Example B
Example C

2. TRACK 2
[Description]

Examples include:

Example A
Example B
Example C

3. TRACK 3
[Description]

Examples include:

Example A
Example B
Example C

4. TRACK 4

[Description]

Examples include:

Example A
Example B
Example C

Innovation Across All Tracks

OCCA encourages proposals that highlight innovative approaches across all topic areas, including the use of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, new service delivery models, and creative strategies that improve outcomes, strengthen governance, and advance community impact.

2026 Conference Sponsorship Opportunities

The 2026 OCCA Annual Conference would not be possible without the support of sponsorships.

If you’re interested in becoming a sponsor for the conference, please contact katie@occa17.com for more information or fill out the inquiry below.

2026 OCCA Event Sponsorship Opportunities

2026 Sponsorship Inquiry Form

2026 Conference Planning Timeline

Now – Room Block Open (call 855-420-8206 and mention “OCCA”)

Howard Cherry Awards Banquet

The annual Howard Cherry Awards celebrate the contributions that local advocates, administrators and board members have made to the benefit of Oregon’s community colleges. The awards are named for the late Dr. Howard Cherry, a lifelong advocate for education and community involvement. Dr. Cherry was also a founding member of the Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT) and was a trustee of the American Association of Community & Junior Colleges.

The Howard Cherry Awards Banquet is included with OCCA Conference Registration (additional tickets also available), and will take place on Thursday, November 5, 2026. It also includes recognition of dedicated service awards for community college board members. Attire for the banquet is business professional or formal.