UPDATE: Two student leaders from Blue Mountain Community College (BMCC) made a significant impact on February 18, 2023, at the Oregon Capitol during Community College Day, advocating for increased access to higher education and career technical programs. Katheryn Gomez, the Associated Student Government President, and Katelyn Demianew, the Vice President, engaged directly with state legislators, emphasizing the critical role of community colleges in rural Oregon.
During the Senate session, Sen. Todd Nash of District 29 honored Gomez with a special courtesy, underscoring her achievements as a first-generation college student. Gomez shared her personal journey and aspirations to further her education in business administration, aiming to graduate this year and pursue a bachelor’s degree. “Community college has opened doors for me, and I’m proud to share that story,” she stated, reflecting on her family’s immigrant background and their pursuit of the American dream.
This advocacy event not only spotlighted student achievements but also showcased BMCC’s innovative programs. The Capitol lobby featured a career technical education showcase, where BMCC highlighted its Meat Science Program. Attendees sampled jerky produced by students, illustrating the hands-on training and real-world skills that community colleges provide.
Jordan Monaco, Director of College Relations at BMCC, noted the importance of community colleges in supporting Oregon’s workforce and local economies. “Seeing our students recognized on the Senate floor while showcasing our career technical programs reflects the full scope of what community colleges provide—opportunity, leadership development, and direct pathways to careers.”
The participation of Gomez and Demianew illustrates the vital role of student leadership in advocating for education equity and workforce development in Oregon. Their visit to the Capitol serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges and opportunities within the educational landscape.
As the conversation surrounding higher education continues, BMCC and its student leaders are poised to influence future policies that affect students statewide. The outcomes of these discussions will be pivotal for the future of community colleges and their contributions to shaping a skilled workforce in Oregon.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story and its implications for students and educational institutions across the state.
