Alumni News
Welcome to the Alumni News Hub – Here you will find stories, features and updates about Southwestern alums, highlighting their diverse accomplishments and contributions. Join us in celebrating the inspiring journeys of our alumni, as we showcase the remarkable impact they continue to make in their respective fields and communities.
Sam Stevens: Learning, Leading, and Giving Back
Sam Stevens, a Coos County native who grew up in Powers, found more than just an education at Southwestern. After being out of the classroom for...
Southwestern Honors Rashinda Reed as 2026 Distinguished Alumna
COOS BAY, Ore. – Southwestern is proud to honor Rashinda Reed, head women’s volleyball coach at the University of Alabama, as 2026 Distinguished...
Southwestern President Dr. Patty Scott and Alum Rashinda Reed Named to NWAC Hall of Fame Class of 2026
COOS BAY, Ore. — Southwestern Oregon Community College is proud to announce that President Dr. Patty Scott and alumna Rashinda Reed have been...
From North Bend grad to local District Leader
Dayna Cahill, Director of Teaching and Learning for North Bend School District After graduating from North Bend High School, Dayna Cahill...
From SWOCC to the World of Wine: Alum Nathan Midyette
For Coos County native Nathan Midyette's connection to SWOCC largely started through dual credit courses at North Bend High School, where he earned...
Mid-life return to college opens door to city management career for Nichole Rutherford
Nichole Rutherford knows what it means to show up for your community. As City Manager for the city of Coos Bay, she spends her days working...
Rushal Sedlemyer’s journey to self-sufficiency and a career she loves
Like many first-generation college students, Rushal grew up without clear examples of people who followed college or career pathways.
Teaching With Heart: How one SWOCC grad inspires the next generation
SWOCC Alum making a difference! As classrooms across the South Coast welcome students back this fall, North Bay Elementary’s Hope Huntley will be...
Southwestern Honors Brian K. Chaney as 2025 Distinguished Alumnus
COOS BAY, Ore. – When people describe Southwestern Oregon Community College’s 2025 Distinguished Alumnus, they speak of a man defined by exceptional...
From Community College to Career Success
SWOCC Business Program Shapes Future Leaders At Southwestern Oregon Community College (SWOCC), students aren’t just filling seats—they’re shaping...