October 30, 2025 – 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.
The ACCT M. Dale Ensign Trustee Leadership Award was presented at the ACCT Leadership Congress held in New Orleans last week. The honor recognizes Hector’s exceptional leadership, advocacy, and enduring commitment to student success and equitable access to higher education. Selected from among regional honorees across the country, Hector was named the top trustee in the nation.
Hector has served on Chemeketa’s Board of Education for 12 years, bringing decades of civic experience, including his tenure as mayor of Silverton, Ore., to his role as trustee. His work has focused on strengthening local governance, promoting student success, and ensuring that community colleges remain accessible and responsive to the needs of Oregonians. He was also a longtime OCCA board member and currently chairs OCCA’s legislative committee.
“Ken’s leadership is rooted in integrity, collaboration, and a deep belief in the power of education,” said Dr. Abby Lee, Executive Director of OCCA. “This national recognition reflects the respect he’s earned across Oregon and beyond, and we’re thrilled to see his contributions honored at the highest level.”
OCCA celebrates Ken Hector’s national recognition and thanks him for his tireless service to Oregon’s community college students.
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