Aug 14, 2025 | News
Imagine a career spent helping others smile with confidence. It’s more than rewarding; it’s life-changing. As a Dental Assistant, you’ll be working in a rewarding career and improving people’s health and lives.
Why consider a career in Dental Assisting?
The newly reinvigorated Dental Assisting program at Southwestern serves as a vital asset to our region, preparing skilled professionals to meet local healthcare needs. In a community facing dental workforce shortages, SWOCC’s program provides essential training — such as chairside assistance, sterilization techniques, radiology certification, and administrative support — that enables graduates to seamlessly join dental offices in our region. In fact, of the six students in last year’s cohort, five have joined local dental offices — either on-site at their externship locations or at other dental facilities. Given the demand for qualified staff and the difficulty offices report in recruitment, every cohort of dental assistants significantly bolsters access to oral healthcare in our rural communities.
Statewide data underscores the value of such training: in Oregon, employment of dental assistants is projected to grow by roughly 13% from 2022 to 2032, with more than 800 annual job openings expected across the state.
Graduates can earn a good wage too. In Oregon, average hourly wages for dental assistants hover around $29.00/hour ($49,370/year in Portland metro area), while median salaries statewide are approximately $54,000 annually, with top earners making over $63,000/year. These wages support local families, offering financial stability and a better quality of life.
Through practical, hands-on training SWOCC equips students with the skills they need to step directly into high-demand dental assisting roles — helping staff local clinics, improve access to care, and build long-term careers that support the region’s overall health and workforce stability.
Introducing our instructors . . .
Nicole Little (Storbeck)
Adjunct Faculty, Dental Assisting
“SWOCC is a prime example of how access to higher education in rural areas improves the lives of its community members and beyond. I can attest to this firsthand. I attended the dental assisting program myself and it was an affordable opportunity that gave me an amazing career. Dental assisting is an incredible opportunity for those who seek a career that allows variety and lifelong growth. My goal for this year and beyond is to increase the number of students in the program and help as many people as I can start their careers. There are a lot of career opportunities for students right here locally. Dental offices in our area are frequently seeking to hire.”
Melody Hardin
Expanded Functions Dental Assistant
“I’m excited to welcome a new group of students into an often misunderstood industry. Dentistry sometimes carries a stigma and being able to guide future assistants through not just the skills, but also the “why” behind what we do, is powerful. Watching them grow, from hesitant learners to confident professionals, is the most fulfilling part of what I do.”
Lori Lemire, DMD
Retired Coos Bay Dentist
“I’m looking forward to assisting in the education of a new cohort of students. I thoroughly enjoyed working with the students last year! They were eager to learn and motivated to work in dentistry – a career field I’m very passionate about.”
TO LEARN MORE: Text or call 541-240-8227 – SWOCCbound@socc.edu
Aug 7, 2025 | Curry Campus, Curry News
The Southwestern Oregon Community College Foundation is proud to congratulate the 2025-26 Curry County scholarship recipients. Thanks to generous community donors, the Foundation awarded 25 scholarships totaling more than $33,000 for students from Curry County attending Southwestern in the upcoming academic year.
Guided by a board of local community volunteers, the Southwestern Foundation has been providing scholarships to thousands of Southwestern students for more than 60 years. These awards help students by breaking down financial barriers and inspiring students to better their lives and futures.
If you are interested in learning more about the Southwestern Foundation visit www.socc.edu/foundation or call 541-888-7209.
2025-26 Southwestern Oregon Community College Foundation Curry County Scholarship Recipients
| SCHOLARSHIP |
RECIPIENT(S) |
| Bezzerides Scholarship |
Aubrey |
Pope |
| Cherie J. Mitchell Scholarship |
Gracie |
Stewart |
| Cherish Pride Scholarship |
Cecilia |
Somers |
| Clyde and Jackie Cherry Memorial Scholarship Fund |
Saron |
Cruz |
|
Zachary |
Renfro |
| Curry Campus General Scholarship |
Danielle |
Ball |
|
Ginger |
Taylor |
| DeArmond CTE Scholarship |
Ruth |
Gastonguay |
|
Tori |
Hinze |
| Dorothy Heagy Education Scholarship |
Lillian |
Hopkins |
| Forty & Eight Bobby L. Fraser Memorial Nursing Scholarship |
Gracie |
Stewart |
| Going Coastal Scholarship |
Rayna |
Hayes |
| Jack & Margaret S. Dean Scholarship |
Ruby |
Hernandez |
| Maxine Smith Scholarship |
Aimie |
Bussmann |
| Menasha Legacy Fund Scholarship |
Aimie |
Bussmann |
| Range Sports Medicine & Performance Scholarship |
Triniti |
Taylor |
| Sharon Barnett Scholarship |
Dustin |
Ledford |
| Shirley Barton Nursing Scholarship |
RayAnne |
Lockett |
| Sickels Family Rural College Technology Scholarship |
Uzumatti |
Flores |
| SWOCC Foundation Classic – Coos Bay Toyota Scholarship |
Triniti |
Taylor |
| SWOCC Foundation General Nursing Scholarship |
Miriam |
Glasband |
|
RayAnne |
Lockett |
| SWOCC Foundation General Scholarship |
Dustin |
Ledford |
|
Jeffrey |
Jennings |
| The Friends of the Curry Public Library James Boyle Memorial Scholarship |
Chanel |
Greenwood |
Aug 7, 2025 | Foundation, News, Student Success
The Southwestern Oregon Community College Foundation is proud to congratulate the 2025-26 scholarship recipients. Thanks to generous community donors, the Foundation awarded around 200 scholarships totaling more than $315,000 for students attending Southwestern for the 2025-26 academic year.
Guided by a board of local community volunteers, the Southwestern Foundation has been providing scholarships to thousands of Southwestern students for more than 60 years. These awards help students by breaking down financial barriers and inspiring students to better their lives and futures.
If you are interested in learning more about the Southwestern Foundation visit www.socc.edu/foundation or call 541-888-7209.
2025-26 Southwestern Oregon Community College Foundation Scholarship Recipients
| SCHOLARSHIP |
RECIPIENT(S) |
| Andy Toribio Scholarship |
Jenna |
Hill |
| Ann Lansing Scholarship |
Ruthie |
Anderson-Castro |
|
Cassidy |
Hart |
| Art and Toni Poole Scholarship |
Lily |
Gagnier |
|
Angel |
Garcia |
| Bandon Dunes Golf Resort Scholarship |
Analise |
McCord |
| Barbara Dodrill Scholarship |
Stephanie |
Palmer |
| Barbara Emily Knudson Scholarship |
Stormy |
Dutra |
|
Maddox |
Johnston |
| Barbara Reynolds Scholarship |
Marcela |
Mendoza |
| Baughman Memorial Apprenticeship Scholarship |
Jonathan |
Rider |
|
Sabrina |
Stroud |
| Bay Area Picklers Scholarship |
Hayden |
Napier |
| Bay Area Sportsman’s Association (BASA) Scholarship |
Kacee |
Ligons |
| Bechtold-Laird Health Care Scholarship |
Alice |
Collins |
|
Jasmine |
Hanson |
|
Taryn |
Hurley |
| Bezzerides Scholarship |
Aubrey |
Pope |
| BI-MART Scholarship |
Jeffrey |
Jennings |
| Cherie J. Mitchell Scholarship |
Gracie |
Stewart |
| Cherish Pride Scholarship |
Kaylee |
Dykes |
|
Cecilia |
Somers |
| Christine Moffitt Science Scholarship |
Kaylee |
Dykes |
|
Jaydenn |
Gamboa |
|
Heidi |
Graves |
|
Gabbard |
Herring |
|
Alivia |
Sand |
| Chuck Hanners Scholarship |
Maia |
Retelska |
| Clyde and Jackie Cherry Memorial Scholarship Fund |
Saron |
Cruz |
|
Zachary |
Renfro |
| Coos Bay Surfrider Scholarship |
Jaydenn |
Gamboa |
|
Yumi |
Young |
| Coos Bay Vision Center Scholarship |
Naveah |
White |
| Coos Bay-North Bend Rotary Scholarship |
Jacob |
McClinton |
| Coos County Realtors Scholarship |
Jesseca |
Rogers |
| Coquille Indian Tribe Scholarship |
Naveah |
White |
| Culinary Vision Scholarship |
Lily |
Isom |
|
Izabella |
Rivas-Lake |
|
Ellie |
Villa |
| Curry Campus General Scholarship |
Danielle |
Ball |
|
Ginger |
Taylor |
| Dean and Jane Muffett Memorial Scholarship |
Catherine |
Johnson |
| DeArmond CTE Scholarship |
Rhett |
Allred |
|
Jared |
Ehrman |
|
Ruth |
Gastonguay |
|
Rank |
Herrera |
|
Tori |
Hinze |
|
Quinn |
Komok |
| Dennis and Janet Beetham Family Scholarship |
Chenoa |
Baurer |
|
Khobi |
Carmichel |
|
Sean |
Derby |
|
Andrea |
García Jiménez |
|
Aiden |
Johnson |
|
Lars |
Knudsen |
|
Haydenn |
Matzner |
|
Emilio |
Reyna |
|
Lincoln |
Roberts |
|
Emmanuel |
Salinas |
| Donald Ivy Memorial Scholarship |
Mariah |
Hill |
| Dorothy Heagy Education Scholarship |
Lillian |
Hopkins |
| Early Bird Scholarship |
Casey |
Schrunk |
| Ernest L. Frye-Keizer Memorial Scholarship |
Brea |
Slater |
| Estella Morgan Memorial |
Penelope |
Waldrop |
| Flaxel Family Scholarship |
Sean |
Hastings |
|
Holly |
Ullha-Reams |
|
Marisol |
Carreno Yanez |
|
Jill |
Holbrook |
|
Lupita |
Trujillo |
| Forty & Eight Bobby L. Fraser Memorial Nursing Scholarship |
Gracie |
Stewart |
| Going Coastal Scholarship |
Kirra |
Cooley |
|
Rowen |
Gott |
|
Sarah |
Greene |
|
Rayna |
Hayes |
|
Baylee |
Pitts |
|
Haley |
Williams |
| Hales Family Scholarship |
Nolan |
Black |
|
Taylor |
Kelner |
|
Domnik |
Simmons |
|
Cohen |
Smith |
|
Ella |
Stokes |
| Henry F. and Elva H. Hansen Memorial Scholarship |
Liliana |
Walton |
| ILWU Local 12 Scholarship |
Sierra |
Adams |
| Jack & Margaret S. Dean Scholarship |
Ruby |
Hernandez |
| James Montalbano Scholarship |
Liam |
Buskerud-Olson |
|
Kyra |
Montez |
| James Reed VanDuzer IV Scholarship |
Zachariah |
Moore-Lopez |
| Jody McCaffree Social & Environmental Justice Scholarship |
Yumi |
Young |
| John C. Anderson Memorial Scholarship |
Taylor |
Dickey |
| John W. Burles Memorial Scholarship |
Denese |
Abeyta |
|
Mycah |
Nichols |
|
Milagros |
Perez Nanez |
| Keiser Scholarship for Culinary Excellence |
Savannah |
Cooke |
|
Dominic |
Duckett |
|
Fyn |
Elton |
| Kyle Trust Scholarship |
Jacob |
Smithson |
| Leonard C. Farr Community Service Scholarship |
Catherine |
Brandon |
| Linda Bufton Culinary Scholarship |
Dominic |
Duckett |
| Linda Kallgren Donaldson Nursing Scholarship |
Hailey |
Crawford |
|
*Anonymous |
|
| Lisa G. Wampole Memorial Scholarship in Criminal Justice |
Lindsey |
Tatakis |
| Lyon/Orr Family Scholarship |
*Anonymous |
|
| Martin Luther King Jr. Scholarship |
Lupe |
Morado |
| Mary, Kate and Cap Sharples Scholarship |
Cassidy |
Hart |
| Maxine Smith Scholarship |
Aimie |
Bussmann |
| May Virginia Smith VanDuzer Scholarship |
Nicole |
Caporale |
| Maybelle M. Olson Scholarship |
Annabelle |
McDorman |
|
Milena |
Miller |
| Menasha Legacy Fund Scholarship |
Aimie |
Bussmann |
|
Gwyn |
Button |
|
Kody |
Chandler |
|
Natalie |
Davis |
|
Addison |
Hitt |
|
Blaise |
Pindell |
| Mike Groben Scholarship |
Monica |
Florez |
|
Tiernan |
McCoy |
| Military Families Scholarship |
Blaire |
Clements |
| Nancy Douglas Memorial Scholarship |
Nicole |
Angelova |
| Nursing Scholarship |
Alanna |
Smith |
| Pacific Orchid Society Scholarship |
Leo |
LaBarge |
| Patricia Benetti Memorial Scholarship |
Hayley |
Brophy |
|
Dominic |
Duckett |
| Patricia D. and William B. Smullin Scholarship |
*Anonymous |
|
|
Asher |
Vredenburg |
| Paul Cameron Rients Memorial Scholarship |
Morgan |
Cole-Hand |
|
Savannah |
Cooke |
| Presbyterian Church of Coos Bay Memorial Scholarship |
Cassandra |
Caputo |
|
Hannah |
Hodge |
|
Benjamin |
Jumper |
|
Emily |
Peck |
| Prescott Art Award Scholarship |
*Anonymous |
|
| Randy Carpenter Memorial Scholarship |
Nolan |
Black |
|
Antonio |
Gallagher |
| Range Sports Medicine & Performance Scholarship |
Triniti |
Taylor |
| Roderick H. Morris Scholarship |
Savannah |
Cooke |
| Sandra Martinez & Carrie Kralicek Selfless Act Nursing Scholarship |
Nicole |
Teigen |
| Sharon Barnett Scholarship |
Dustin |
Ledford |
| Sharon Kolkhorst Memorial Nursing Scholarship |
Hannah |
Tanner |
| Sheryl Rosenbaum Memorial Scholarship |
Joy |
Dschaak |
| Shirley Barton Nursing Scholarship |
RayAnne |
Lockett |
| Sickels Family Rural College Technology Scholarship |
Uzumatti |
Flores |
|
Maggie |
Young |
| Slaney Family Human Services Scholarship |
Sayana |
Phillips |
|
Alexis |
Rogers |
| Slaney Family Scholarship |
Emma |
Spalding |
| Stephens Family Scholarship |
Hayley |
Brophy |
| Steve Shirtcliff CASA Scholarship |
Kendra |
Johnston |
| Student of the Year Scholarship |
Lyndsay |
Thomas |
| SWOCC Foundation Board General Scholarship |
Morgan |
Herring |
|
Lindsey |
Tatakis |
|
Lyndsay |
Thomas |
|
Ben |
Zuschlag |
| SWOCC Foundation Classic – Ken Ware Chevrolet GMC Scholarship |
Maison |
Miller |
| SWOCC Foundation Classic – Coos Bay Toyota Scholarship |
Triniti |
Taylor |
| SWOCC Foundation Classic – Morrison Gederos Construction Scholarship |
Jonathan |
Rider |
| SWOCC Foundation Classic – Opsis Architecture Scholarship |
Kaleb |
Nielson |
| SWOCC Foundation Classic – Pacific Coast Automation Scholarship |
Andrew |
Groter |
| SWOCC Foundation Classic – Three Rivers Casino Resort Scholarship |
Danna |
Silva Ortega |
| SWOCC Foundation Culinary General Scholarship |
Raquel |
Bonham |
|
Joseph |
Cavazos |
|
Kaleb |
Clason |
|
Raena |
Crisp |
|
Anaya |
Young |
| SWOCC Foundation General Nursing Scholarship |
Mikaela |
Bjorn |
|
Miriam |
Glasband |
|
RayAnne |
Lockett |
|
Abe |
Ramadan |
| SWOCC Foundation General Scholarship |
Heather |
Beaird |
|
Chelsey |
Blair |
|
Kylee |
Bond |
|
Liam |
Buskerud-Olson |
|
Morgan |
Cole-Hand |
|
Sabra |
D’Orazio |
|
Katelynn |
Godin |
|
Rowen |
Gott |
|
*Anonymous |
|
|
Michael |
Knutsen |
|
Dustin |
Ledford |
|
Kacee |
Ligons |
|
Amy |
Page |
|
Milagros |
Perez Nanez |
|
Sophie |
Rhodes |
|
Breeann |
Turner |
| The Friends of the Curry Public Library James Boyle Memorial Scholarship |
Chanel |
Greenwood |
| TymByr Culinary Scholarship |
Bentley |
Maldonado |
|
Jennifer |
Parker |
| Umpqua Bank Scholarship |
Kendra |
Johnston |
| Vernon Brecke Memorial Scholarship |
Jenna |
Hill |
| Vernon C. and Jean G. Sorenson Scholarship |
Analise |
McCord |
| William and Virginia Erickson Scholarship |
Vexx |
Genczo |
|
Logan |
Noblitt |
| William Lansing Scholarship |
Irelyn |
Gibbs |
|
Zaidee |
Quinn |
| Woolridge Myrtle Point Scholarship |
Hayley |
Brophy |
| Yellow Cab Taxi Scholarship |
Jaciel |
Valdez |
| *Note: Some scholarship recipients request their award(s) not be listed publicly. The Foundation respects their privacy by not including them on this list. |
Aug 4, 2025 | Curry Campus, Curry News, News, OCCI News
Fall Term 2025-26 is quickly approaching! Classes start Monday, Sept. 15, 2025. Below are instructions about how to register. Still have questions after reading the information below? We’re here to help! Contact us:
- Coos Campus Students: Call 541-888-7352 or Email
- Curry Campus Students: Call 541-813-1677 or Email
REGISTRATION FOR DEGREE OR CERTIFICATE SEEKING STUDENTS:
If you are already a current/admitted student, below are instructions on registering.
Not a current or admitted student? You’ll need to first complete an Application for Admission to Southwestern.** Not sure whether or not you’re an admitted student? Contact us using the information above! (**Note: If you’re a community member simply looking to take a credit class for fun or personal enrichment, you’ll complete the Community Education and Personal Enrichment Form in lieu of the Application for Admission).
Credit classes begin Monday, Sept. 15, 2025. Registration is available May 5, 2025 – Sept. 17, 2025 (Starting Sept. 18, you will first need instructor consent before registering for a class).
To register:
- First, clear with your advisor! If you’re unsure who your advisor is, you may call 541-888-7405 or schedule an advising meeting. Curry Campus students call 541-813-1667.
- Login to myLakerLink using your student ID and password.
- Search for courses to add under the appropriate term drop down. **Be sure you filter for credit classes (NOT community education classes)**
REGISTRATION FOR COMMUNITY CLASSES (COMMUNITY EDUCATION):
Fall Term 2025-26 community education class registration opens Thurs., Aug. 21 at 8:00 a.m. To register, follow the instructions on the top of the community class page. Classes offered for the term will post on the page prior to registration opening.
As a reminder, all academic term dates and other important milestones may be found on the Academic Calendar. Click on the “2025-26 Academic Calendar” button for a .pdf version, or click on the “categories” button and filter for “instructional calendar” to view the online version.
Jul 15, 2025 | Curry Campus, Curry News, Foundation, News
Coos Bay, OR – Friends and alumni are invited to the annual SWOCC Foundation Classic, hosted by Bandon Dunes Golf Resort and the Bandon Dunes Charitable Foundation. The event is scheduled from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 25, 2025, at Bandon Dunes’ newest course, Shorty’s (19-hole, par 3 course).
The SWOCC Foundation Classic will welcome 15 teams, with four golfers per team. Individuals are welcome, too, and will be placed on teams. Tee times open every 15 minutes starting at 9:30 a.m., and golfers can select tee time preferences based on availability. This is a walking event.
Registration Info:
Cost is $200 per person, or $750 per team. Funds raised go to support scholarships for students attending SWOCC Coos and Curry campuses. Event sponsorships also are available. For details on sponsoring, contact SWOCC Foundation at foundation@socc.edu or (541) 888-7209.
Event Sponsor Registration
Event Individual Registration
Additional Details about the Course & Event:
The SWOCC Foundation Classic is designed as a fun, low-key golf classic for golfers of all skill levels and ages. Meet SWOCC’s 2025-26 golf team athletes and coach Kristopher Wood, a SWOCC alum. Curious about Shorty’s? Designed by Rod Whitman, Dave Axland and Keith Cutten, the new course features 19 “short” holes, rolling through natural dunes and shore pine terrain. Golfers can expect to spend about two and a half hours playing through the course.
Learn more about the course Shorty’s
In addition, golfers can make a full day of activity at the resort and enjoy additional time at Bandon Dunes’ 50-acre Practice Center, which includes two practice ranges, a putting green and Charlotte’s, the 9-hole, par-3 practice course.
Questions?
For more information about the event and supporting scholarships, please contact the Southwestern Foundation at 541-888-7209 or 541-888-7211, or email foundation@socc.edu.
Jun 25, 2025 | Curry Campus, News, Student Success
COOS BAY, Ore. – Thanks to Southwestern Oregon Community College Foundation, donors and grants, the College has purchased an X-ray fluorescence spectrometer, or XRF.
Student researchers Tia DeLorto and Ava Bolster prepare a sample for the XRF
Using this device, a student team kicked off a research project to unveil the secrets of coastal rocks and fossils. The XRF is a tool that tells researchers what elements are in a variety of materials – solutions, solids, or crushed solids of samples like rocks, soils, metals or even fish and plants – by zapping the sample with X-rays and reading the energy that bounces back. Each element gives off a unique energy signature, helping researchers determine the elemental composition.
“The XRF is a power tool for conducting cutting-edge scientific research, but also for broader impacts ranging from testing soil quality to testing the purity and quality of locally produced food,” said Dr. Win McLaughlin, Assistant Professor of Geology at Southwestern. “We’re not only able to offer those testing services via student-led research projects, but also give students a set of skills with a wide range of potential for employment in different industries.”
Under the guidance of McLaughlin and Derek Morrelli, Assistant Professor of Chemistry, teams of students will engage in two initial research projects. One upcoming project will analyze a fossil walrus jaw collected in the 1930s from Fossil Point at Coos Bay. By matching the elemental signature of the jaw’s surrounding sandstone with regional rock formations, the team aims to determine its geologic origin. They hope to determine whether the fossil represents the oldest walrus fossil found on the U.S. mainland.
Tia DeLorto, a 2025 graduate of Southwestern and student researcher from Prineville, Oregon, discovered her passion for geology through courses with Dr. Win McLaughlin. Inspired by her studies, she plans to pursue a career in the field. “Learning about and preserving the natural world is important to me,” she says. “This technology is just one of the tools that helps scientists do that.”
Team member, Ava Bolster from Gold Beach, is a marine biology major who will return to SWOCC this fall. “I’m focused on marine biology and Tia is studying geology, but this technology has applications across both fields — and many others,” she explains.
Another project will use geo-chemical fingerprinting to measure uplift rates of marine terraces along the South Coast. These ancient shorelines, formed by tectonic uplift, hold vital clues to regional earthquake risk. More accurate modeling of uplift patterns will provide data that can be used to develop more accurate seismic maps from Reedsport to Brookings.
Students also are considering projects to analyze fish for metal contamination and to look at soil quality in former mining sites.
Over the next year, up to 60 students across three academic terms will use the XRF in coursework and projects. Some research will also tie in with research at the University of Oregon Earth Science Department.
To learn more about STEM degrees at Southwestern visit: https://www.socc.edu/programs-classes/stem/.
Jun 18, 2025 | Community, Foundation, News
1,500 Miles, 17 Colleges, 50 Days, One Cause
COOS BAY, OR – Southwestern Oregon Community College will soon welcome a unique visitor as part of a statewide campaign supporting Oregon’s community college students. Clackamas Community College President Dr. Tim Cook is in the midst of a grueling 1,500-mile, 50-day run across Oregon to raise awareness for student basic needs. As part of his journey, Dr. Cook is scheduled to arrive in Coos Bay on July 14 for a visit to Southwestern’s Coos Campus.
The Running for Oregon Community College Students (ROCCS) campaign highlights the challenges many students face meeting essential needs like food, housing, child care and transportation—all while balancing school, work and family responsibilities. Dr. Cook’s run aims to raise both awareness and funds to directly support students at community colleges across the state.
“As a first-generation college student, I understand the transformative power of education,” Dr. Cook said. “Through ROCCS, I aim to shed light on the significant challenges our students face, rally support to address these critical needs and raise awareness of the valuable role community colleges play in our state.”
Locally, Southwestern leaders see these needs every day. “Too many of our students face daily barriers that go beyond the classroom,” said Southwestern President Dr. Patty Scott. “This campaign shines an important light on these realities, and helps raise funds to directly support our students working so hard to change their lives through education. We’re proud to support this mission and encourage the community to get involved!”
In fact, community college students represent some of the most vulnerable populations in the state. A survey from The Hope Center highlights the pressing needs of Oregon’s community college students showed:
- Approximately 41% of students reported experiencing food insecurity within the previous 30 days.
- About 52% of students faced housing insecurity in the past year, which includes difficulties such as affording rent, utilities, or frequent moves.
- Nearly 20% of students experienced homelessness in the past year, indicating a lack of stable and safe housing.
Donate and Follow Along!
Your support makes a difference! ROCCS donations can go directly to help Southwestern students cover essential needs.
Make a ROCCS Donation!
Follow Dr. Cook’s journey at run4orccstudents.org or on Instagram at @run4orccstudents
The ROCCS campaign is made possible through the generous support of Rivermark Community Credit Union, Johnson RV, and Daimler Truck North America.
Jun 11, 2025 | Community, News, OCCI News
Coos Bay, OR – A summer tradition returns this July and August as Oregon Coast Culinary Institute (OCCI) opens its doors for a limited-time restaurant-style lunch series. It’s a unique opportunity for the community to enjoy exceptional food while supporting the next generation of chefs.
Over the course of 12 select days, guests may order items from a three-course lunch menu, with freshly made desserts available from OCCI’s La Patisserie, the student-run bakery. All items are prepared and served by culinary students, providing hands-on experience in a professional dining setting.
This summer restaurant is more than just a great meal. It’s a vital part of OCCI’s training, helping students practice real-world service, refine techniques, and collaborate as a team in a fast-paced environment.
Lunch Service Schedule
Tuesdays–Thursdays | 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
(Last reservation taken at 1:00 p.m.)
- July 8, 9, 10
- July 22, 23, 24
- July 29, 30, 31
- August 5, 6, 7
Reservations
Seating is limited and reservations are highly encouraged.
Email shawn.warren@socc.edu or call the unstaffed reservation line at 541-888-1540 (leave a message and a staff member will return your call to confirm your reservation).
We hope you join us in playing an active role in helping students build the skills needed in the culinary workforce.
Sample Menu**
**PLEASE NOTE: This sample menu is provided to give a general sense of the offerings. Final selections and pricing will vary and are subject to change without notice.
APPETIZERS (Student Designed)
- ($14) Korean Fried Calamari by Caleb H – With a mix of vegetables and peppers [GFO]
- ($10) White Bean Puree & Crudity by Oliva F – With grilled bread [VGFO]
- ($15) Crispy Crab Cake by Austin R – Selection heirloom tomatoes and basil [GFO] [SF]
- ($14) Grilled Chicken Sticks with Red Curry by Joseph C – Grilled radicchio with peanuts [GF]
- ($12) Face Rock Cheese Plate by Caleb H [GFO]
SOUPS
($6) Cup ($10) Bowl
- Coastal Clam Chowder
- Roasted Tomato [V] [GF]
SALADS
- ($7) House Greens – Mixed greens with vegetable garnish & choice of dressing [GF]
- ($15) Smoked Tuna – Potatoes, tomatoes, French beans, egg, olives, onions, capers [GF]
- ($12) Little Gem Country Salad by Azul G – Dill ranch, tomatoes, bacon, blue cheese crumbles, crispy onion [GF crouton option]
PIZZAS*
*Gluten-Free Option Available upon request
- ($14) The Meats – Pepperoni, chorizo, sausage & caramelized onion [GFO]
- ($14) CBB – Chicken, bacon, broccolini [GFO]
- ($14) Vineyard – Blue cheese, dates & cranberry topped with fresh arugula [GFO]
- ($14) Ultimate Cheese – Fresh mozzarella, ricotta, parmesan & provolone with basil [GFO]
MAIN COURSES (Student Designed)
- ($25) Grilled Pork Chop with Pickled Green Salsa by Elijah M – Corn puree, burnt ends, cheesy potato, zucchini [GF]
- ($28) Seafood Risotto by Kaleb C – Black cod, shrimp, roasted broccolini [GF]
- ($25) Mushroom Pasta by Kiera D – Mushroom demi-glaze and truffle [VGFO]
- ($32) Tamarind Glazed Hanger Steak by Dominic D – Crispy potatoes, tomato jam, chimichurri, vegetables [GF]
About Oregon Coast Culinary Institute (OCCI)
OCCI is a professionally accredited culinary institution at Southwestern Oregon Community College located in Coos Bay, Oregon. OCCI offers both degrees and certificates in Culinary Arts and Baking & Pastry Arts. The school is renowned for providing comprehensive culinary training programs that equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in the culinary industry. With a focus on hands-on learning, experienced faculty, and affordable programs, OCCI is committed to nurturing culinary talent and shaping the next generation of talented chefs. For more information, visit www.socc.edu/occi.
Jun 6, 2025 | Community, News
Trail crew ready for action: Wyatt, Kenny, Kaya, Mhina, and Joseph
The College is moving forward with phased construction of a multi-use, pedestrian-friendly trail system through its Coos Campus and forest, alongside Upper Empire Lake. Our goal is to create a welcoming, nature-connected experience for our students and community members of all ages and abilities who love the outdoors.
In line with SWOCC’s vision to lead and inspire lifelong learning, the College partnered with Ptarmigan Ptrails LLC (PTRAILS) to design the trail network. The nationally known Port Orford-based professional trail development firm identified optimal routes tailored to the terrain. Plans include a mix of natural and improved surface trails, with options for universal access, walking paths, and mountain bike-friendly routes. The trail system will also provide training grounds for the College’s cross country team and connect students in forestry, natural resources and agroecology programs with outdoor labs right on campus.
The College is planning to phase the development as funding becomes available. The first phase of the project started in April, restoring the once-popular decades-old trails on the north side of campus connecting to the city of Coos Bay’s John Topits Park. It’s a partnership between the College, SWOCC Foundation, PTRAILS and the Southwestern Oregon Workforce Investment Board, which is funding a youth construction crew. The crew consists of SWOCC students and other youth who want to work and someday have outdoor careers.
The project came about after the College completed its 2020-30 comprehensive facilities plan. Students and community members told us they wanted to be a part of a vibrant learning ecosystem – inside and outdoors. The other benefit is the College also expects the trail system to provide additional local tourism opportunities, as people discover the natural beauty of the south coast.
Many generations of people have walked on this land and around the lakes, even before the College campus was built. With this trail system, SWOCC will ensure people are connected for many more generations to our outdoor career programs, the land, lake and forest.
Jun 4, 2025 | Curry Campus, News
COOS BAY, Ore. – Southwestern Oregon Community College (SWOCC) is rolling out a new Diesel Mechanic Technology Program this fall. The program will enroll 15 students fall term, bringing high-skill, hands-on training to individuals ready to power up careers in one of the region’s highest-demand trades.
DEADLINE EXTENDED: The limited-entry, competitive program is open for applications through August 7, 2025. Interviews will be held in August and classes begin Sept. 15. A limited-entry format means students must apply and interview to be considered for the program. Classes will run weekday afternoons and simulate a real job environment — complete with uniforms and professional expectations. More details are available at http://www.socc.edu/dieselmechanic.
Coos Bay business owner Terry Cheyne created the program and brings more than 35 years of experience in diesel technology and shop management. A Marshfield High School graduate and Universal Technical Institute alum, Cheyne returned to Coos Bay in 2016 to launch his successful mechanic business, Cheyne’s Truck & Marine. He’s now ready to turn his focus to teaching.
“I plan to structure this program like a job all the way through graduation. Students will learn all aspect of the business, not just turning wrenches,” Cheyne said.
The program combines lectures and hands-on lab training to prepare graduates for careers in trucking, maritime, forestry, fleet services, rail and agriculture. Each term will build on skilled learned, increasing in experience and complete truck maintenance and repair. Ultimately, students will earn an Associate of Applied Science in Diesel Mechanic Technology.
Initially housed in a repurposed ambulance bay in Umpqua Hall, the program is the first step in a larger vision. Over the next two years, the college will design and build a new four-bay diesel shop facility on the Coos Bay campus. SWOCC and the SWOCC Foundation are working together on grant funding and private donations to support this expansion, aiming for completion in 2026 or 2027.
For more information about the program, contact Terry Cheyne at (541) 888-7242 or terry.cheyne@socc.edu. To learn how to support the diesel program, call the SWOCC Foundation at (541) 888-7211 or email foundation@socc.edu.
You can read more about Cheyne’s background and the creation of the Diesel Mechanic program HERE.
Applications Now Open!
Click HERE for more details and instructions to apply.
