April 9, 2026 – Sixty-two of Oregon’s highest-achieving community college students have been selected to the 2026 All-Oregon Academic Team (AOAT), a prestigious recognition honoring academic excellence, leadership, and community impact across the state.
Chosen from colleges statewide, these students represent the top tier of Oregon’s community college scholars. Many are members of Phi Theta Kappa, the international honor society for community college students.
“These students are setting the standard for what’s possible,” said OCCA Executive Director Dr. Abby Lee. “They are excelling academically while leading in their communities and overcoming real challenges along the way. Their achievements speak not only to their talent, but to their determination and drive.”
The All-Oregon Academic Team is part of a national program supported by Phi Theta Kappa, community college presidents, and state associations in 38 states. OCCA will recognize this year’s honorees at the All-Oregon Academic Team Luncheon on April 17 at Chemeketa Community College’s Eola Center in Salem. State Senator Janeen Sollman (D-Forest Grove), a leading champion for education and workforce development, will serve as keynote speaker.
A centerpiece of the event is hearing directly from students. The OCCA Member Services Committee selects several honorees each year to share their journeys. This year’s featured student speakers are:
- Jay Freilinger, Chemeketa Community College
- Savannah West, Linn-Benton Community College
- Stephen Zeller, Portland Community College
“The student voices are what make this event so powerful,” Dr. Lee said. “Their stories highlight the real impact of community colleges and the opportunities they create for Oregonians every day.”
Several Oregon students also earned national honors. Ray Baurer of Clackamas Community College was named an All-USA Academic Team Scholar, recognizing the top student from each state, and will receive a $3,000 scholarship. He was also named a Coca-Cola New Century Transfer Scholar, awarded to the nation’s top transfer students, earning an additional $2,750 scholarship.
Amanda Payne of Central Oregon Community College was named a Coca-Cola New Century Workforce Scholar, receiving a $1,500 scholarship. Larea Guido-May of Lane Community College was selected as a Coca-Cola Community College Academic Team Scholar, earning $1,300 as part of a national recognition program honoring 125 students.
“These national recognitions underscore the caliber of students coming out of Oregon’s community colleges,” Dr. Lee added. “They are prepared to lead, to serve, and to make a difference.”
For a full list of the 2026 All-Oregon Academic Team honorees, please click here.
###