The League has a long history of encouraging informed civic participation, and the college’s commitment to education makes it a fitting partner in that work. As your current county commissioner, I believe informed choices are essential to good government.
Each of us can ask questions, weigh the evidence, consider different perspectives, and distinguish verified facts from unsupported claims. Civics literacy matters. When we educate ourselves and support access to education for everyone, we strengthen our community and our ability to choose the people who serve us. I encourage you to watch the forum and hear directly from the candidates.
From startup advising and workforce development to youth entrepreneurship, business planning, digital marketing, and capital access, these programs provide real-world tools that help local businesses grow and succeed.
The Oregon Coast Community College SBDC alone served hundreds of clients in 2025, helped launch new businesses, supported job creation, and provided dozens of training opportunities for entrepreneurs across our county.
One exciting example is the Youth Entrepreneurship Program (YEP), a partnership involving OCCC, EDALC, local schools, foundations, Lincoln County, and community partners. The program helps local students explore entrepreneurship, develop business ideas, and gain practical leadership and presentation skills.
Economic development is more than recruitment — it is about investing in people, supporting innovation, strengthening existing businesses, and creating opportunities locally.
Lincoln County appreciates the collaborative work being done by OCCC, SBDC, EDALC, educators, business leaders, and community partners to help build a resilient and sustainable local economy for today and for future generations.
There were many wonderful moments last night at the Pearls of Wisdom fundraising event for Oregon Coast Community College.
Every dollar raised helps OCCC expand scholarships, strengthen workforce training, and create opportunities for students to build careers right here at home in Lincoln County.
I had the chance to reconnect with many people who have advocated for our community college for years. It was amazing to reflect on how far OCCC has come since its early days along Highway 101 in Newport more than 20 years ago — when I was a student myself. I found myself thinking about those humble beginnings and sharing those memories with others who helped build this college into what it is today.
My own community college journey began at Yuba College in the early 1990s. Later, in the early 2000s, I enrolled at OCCC as a proud Shark.
Oregon Coast Community College played an important role in my own path. When I became self-employed, the coursework available at OCCC helped me develop the practical skills I needed to run a small business here in Lincoln County while continuing to grow professionally.
Without that opportunity, I’m not sure my path would have unfolded the same way.
Community colleges provide accessible education, practical training, and the confidence people need to move forward with their goals. My story is just one example of what happens when those opportunities are available.
That’s why I believe we must continue to protect, support, and strengthen community colleges — especially our own Oregon Coast Community College.
Thank you to the donors, board members, community partners, and volunteers who support OCCC and help create opportunities for others.
Your investment ensures that students across Lincoln County can access education, gain skills, and build successful lives right here in our community. Thank you for believing in the power of education.
The OCCC Foundation provides vital scholarships for economically challenged students and supports the growth of new academic programs to meet the evolving needs of our community. We could not do it without the support of generous donors like you.
Reach out to Jeanette Campagna, Director of Advancement, at 541-867-8531
