URGENT UPDATE: Two student leaders from Blue Mountain Community College (BMCC) were honored on the Senate floor during a pivotal event at the Oregon Capitol on February 18, 2023. Katheryn Gomez, President of the Associated Student Government, and Katelyn Demianew, the Vice President, actively advocated for enhanced access to higher education and career technical programs.
The significance of their visit comes amid growing discussions about the vital role of community colleges in rural Oregon. During Community College Day, Gomez and Demianew met with state legislators to underscore the importance of student access, workforce development, and community partnerships.
In a noteworthy moment, Senator Todd Nash of District 29 welcomed Gomez to the Senate floor, requesting a courtesy in her honor. This recognition included a second courtesy where Gomez shared her inspiring story as a first-generation college student, emphasizing her ambition to pursue a bachelor’s degree after graduating this year. As the daughter of immigrant parents, Gomez articulated her dedication to helping her family realize the American dream.
“It was an incredible honor to represent BMCC and our students at the Capitol,” Gomez stated. “Community college has opened doors for me, and I’m proud to share that story.” Her sentiments resonate with many students who see community colleges as critical to their success and future opportunities.
Demianew played an active role throughout the day, participating in legislative meetings and advocacy conversations, reinforcing the impact of student leadership in shaping Oregon’s community colleges.
In addition to these legislative meetings, Community College Day showcased a career technical education exhibit in the Capitol lobby, highlighting hands-on workforce programs vital to supporting Oregon’s industries. BMCC’s exhibit prominently featured its Meat Science Program, where attendees could sample student-produced jerky, demonstrating the applied learning and industry preparation provided through BMCC’s career technical education (CTE) programs.
Jordan Monaco, director of College Relations at BMCC, affirmed the essential role community colleges play in Oregon’s workforce and local economies.
“Seeing our students recognized on the Senate floor while also showcasing our career technical programs reflects the full scope of what community colleges provide — opportunity, leadership development, and direct pathways to careers,”
Monaco stated, highlighting the immediate relevance of the event.
This recognition not only underscores the achievements of BMCC students but also emphasizes the ongoing need for legislative support for community colleges across the state. As discussions continue, the impact of these student leaders is felt both in the Capitol and within their communities.
As Oregon lawmakers consider policies that affect access to higher education, the voices of students like Gomez and Demianew remain crucial. The immediate future will reveal how their advocacy may influence funding and support for community colleges, shaping the educational landscape for countless students across the state.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story and the implications for Oregon’s educational system.
