Jun 2, 2026 | Alumni, News, Student Success
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 almost 30 years, Sam says the welcoming environment, especially from his geology instructor Ron Metzger, made all the difference and helped him learn how to be a student again, build lasting friendships, and gain self-confidence.
After earning his associate’s degree from SWOCC and his bachelor’s degree from Eastern Oregon University, Sam began teaching at the elementary level in Powers in 2012. Today, he serves as Dean of Students for the Powers School District, a role he’s held for the past four years. Even in his leadership position, he still teaches a couple of classes each day and steps in wherever he’s needed — keeping a foot in the world of teaching.
Looking ahead, Sam plans to work a few more years before retiring and spending more time with his grandchildren. He’s passionate about seeing his family and community thrive and believes that starts in the schools.
Jun 1, 2026 | Curry News, News, Student Success
COOS BAY, Ore. – Southwestern is proud to honor Rashinda Reed, head women’s volleyball coach at the University of Alabama, as 2026 Distinguished Alumna. Reed has built a reputation for inspiring excellence and fostering a culture of growth, accountability, and achievement among her athletes. Known for her ability to connect with players and challenge them to reach their full potential, Reed’s leadership reflects both her competitive drive and her deep commitment to student-athlete success.
Reed’s journey began at Southwestern, where she played for the Lakers in 2000–01. Quickly emerging as a standout, she earned NWAACC all-star honors and helped lead her team to postseason competition. Early in the season at a California tournament, voters deemed her Most Valuable Player. After netting win after win, community sportswriters started calling Reed the Lakers’ best offensive player. “One is dominant because of her sheer power.” That was the lead sentence on a season finale story in October 2021 praising power-hitter Reed.
She went on to compete at the University of Georgia, earning her bachelor’s degree in psychology in 2005, and later played professionally in Europe. Reed transitioned into coaching soon after, holding positions at the University of Southern Indiana and Binghamton University, where she contributed to conference championship success. She later served as head coach at Northern Michigan University before joining the University of Illinois staff, where the program made multiple deep NCAA Tournament runs, including appearances in the Sweet 16 and national semifinals.
In 2021, Reed was named head volleyball coach at the University of Alabama, becoming the first Black woman to lead the program. Her impact has been immediate. She brings energy, vision, and a commitment to excellence both on and off the court. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Reed is also a dedicated parent and role model, demonstrating balance, perseverance, and purpose.
“I’m incredibly honored to be recognized as an alumna of Southwestern Oregon Community College. Coming from a small town, I always imagined myself going somewhere bigger, but SWOCC ended up becoming one of the most meaningful and impactful places in my life. The relationships, mentorship, lessons, and experiences I gained there continue to shape me every day as a coach, leader, and person. Looking back, I realize how special those two years truly were. SWOCC is a hidden gem, and I feel so fortunate that SWOCC volleyball found me. I honestly owe so much of who I am today to that place and the people who believed in me along the way,” said Reed.
A 2019 inductee into Southwestern’s Athletic Hall of Fame and a 2026 inductee into the Northwest Athletic Conference Hall of Fame, Reed continues to inspire the next generation of student-athletes. Her journey from Southwestern to national prominence is a powerful example of what can be achieved through hard work, leadership, and belief in yourself.
“Rashinda is a truly deserving recipient of the College’s Distinguished Alum honor,” said President Patty Scott. “She was a powerful force for success at our college two decades ago. And today, her career success is a clear example of how community colleges prepare people not just to begin down a path to a job, but to lead and excel throughout life.”
Reed will be a featured speaker at Southwestern’s commencement ceremony at noon on June 12. This year’s graduating class includes 374 graduates from 19 states and 9 countries.
May 28, 2026 | Community, News
COOS BAY, OR – Southwestern Oregon Community College (SWOCC) Volleyball invites students completing grades 2–9 to attend its one-day Youth Volleyball Camp on August 2, 2026, in Prosper Hall on SWOCC’s Coos Campus (1988 Newmark Ave., Coos Bay).
The one-day camp gives students the opportunity to develop volleyball fundamentals, improve skills, and train with experienced coaches and players in a fun and supportive environment. The camp schedule is as follows:
- Students completing grades 2–5: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
- Students completing grades 6–9: 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
The registration fee is $50 per camper. Payment will be accepted at the door, and checks should be made payable to “SWOCC Volleyball.” Pre-registration is highly encouraged, though on-site registration will also be available.
Pre-Register for SWOCC Youth Volleyball Camp
Campers should bring a water bottle, knee pads, and court shoes. Snacks will be provided.
Questions about the camp can be directed to Kyle Smith, SWOCC Head Volleyball Coach at kyle.smith1@socc.edu.
Sign up today for a fun day of volleyball, skill-building, and teamwork!
For more information about SWOCC Athletics, visit: https://swoccathletics.com/
May 20, 2026 | Community, News
COOS BAY, OR – Middle and high school students are invited to explore high-demand careers through hands-on learning experiences at the 2026 CTE Summer Academy. The event takes place June 15–17, 2026, on the Southwestern Oregon Community College (SWOCC) Coos Campus. The academy is free to attend, but space is limited and registration is required.
The CTE Summer Academy gives students the opportunity to explore career pathways through immersive learning experiences across the South Coast. From maritime science and sustainable agriculture to emergency medical skills, students will work directly with industry professionals, real equipment, and authentic work environments designed to build confidence, spark curiosity, and connect students with future education and career opportunities.
Students may participate in multiple sessions, depending on scheduling and program availability. Daily check-in and check-out will take place in Umpqua Hall, Room 184, on SWOCC’s Coos Campus, located at 1988 Newmark Ave., Coos Bay. Lunch will be provided daily from 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.
REGISTRATION:
Pre-registration is required, and space is limited! Register online today.
Register for CTE Summer Academy!
CTE SUMMER ACADEMY SESSION INFORMATION:
Additional information about each academy session is provided below.
Agroecology: “From Seed to Table” with Maria Farinacci, Assistant Professor of Agroecology
June 15 & June 17 | 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Middle & high school students | Attend one or both sessions
Ever wonder where your food actually comes from, or what it takes to grow it in a world facing climate change, population growth, and shrinking farmland? In this fast-paced, hands-on lab, students won’t just hear about the future of agriculture. They’ll dig into it.
This isn’t your average lecture. Students will spend real time working with soil, seeds, and living plants. They’ll learn why healthy soil is one of the most complex and underrated ecosystems on Earth. We’re talking billions of microorganisms in a single handful of soil, and they’re the reason any of us eat at all.
In this workshop, students will:
- Explore the science of plant biology, from germination and photosynthesis to nutrient cycles and soil chemistry.
- Experiment with sustainable growing techniques used by real-world farmers and food scientists, including composting, companion planting, and water-efficient irrigation.
- Discover how horticulture intersects with cutting-edge fields like environmental science, and urban planning.
- Taste and test produce grown right on campus…because the best science experiments are the ones you can eat!
Why does this matter? By 2050, the world will need to produce 50% more food to feed a growing population — all while using less land, less water, and fewer chemicals. The people solving that problem are studying exactly what students explore in this lab. Whether students are interested in biology, environmental science, engineering, business, or simply figuring out what they want to do, sustainable agriculture sits at the intersection of it all.
Paramedicine with Julie Ryan, Paramedicine Program Faculty Director
June 15–17 | 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Middle & high school students | 8‑students max | Designed as a three‑day series
The paramedicine track gives students a rare chance to learn real emergency medical skills in a fun, supportive environment. Each day will feature different hands‑on skills, building toward a friendly, skills‑based competition on the final day. Students will train inside the ambulance simulator, practicing procedures in a realistic moving ambulance environment that is consistently described as one of the most exciting parts of the program. This session is intended for students who can participate all three days, due to the progressive skill‑building structure.
Columbia Pacific Maritime **High School Only** Session
June 15–17 | 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
High school students | Full three‑day experience
The Columbia Pacific Maritime session offers high school students a three‑day, hands‑on introduction to the maritime industry, blending career exploration with real seamanship and marine science. Students will learn about local and global maritime careers, practice essential deck skills, and spend a field‑trip day at the Charleston Marine Life Center exploring tide pools and touring the University of Oregon’s research vessels. The final day immerses students in navigation, watchstanding, and vessel operations, giving them a realistic look at life on the bridge and the skills mariners use every day.
This session is designed as a cohesive three‑day experience, with students participating as a group throughout the full program.
For more information about this event, please contact Krystal Hopper Meyers, LIFT Project Administrator at swoccworks@socc.edu.
May 18, 2026 | Community, News
COOS BAY, OR – Southwestern Oregon Community College (SWOCC) Basketball and North Bend High School Girls Basketball are co-hosting a three-day youth basketball camp on June 15–17, 2026, at the North Bend High School gymnasium.
The camp gives young athletes the opportunity to build basketball fundamentals, develop skills, and learn from experienced coaches and players. The camp schedule for all three days is as follows:
- Students completing grades 1–4: 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
- Students completing grades 5–8: 12:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
The registration fee for each camper for all three days is $100. Payment will be accepted at the door and checks should be made out to “SWOCC Basketball.” Pre-registration is highly encouraged (on-site registration will also be available).
YOUTH BASKETBALL CAMP DETAILS:
- DATES: June 15–17, 2026
- TIMES: Grades 1–4: 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.; 5–8: 12:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
- PLACE: North Bend High School Gymnasium
- COST: $100 (Payment accepted at the door – checks made out to “SWOCC Basketball”)
- REGISTRATION: Pre-register using link below! (On-site registration also available)
Pre-Register Online!
Questions can be directed to SWOCC Head Women’s Basketball Coach Heather Weber at 541-391-3494 or heather.weber@socc.edu. Campers will have the opportunity to learn from SWOCC and North Bend coaches and players throughout the three-day event.
Sign up today for three days of skill-building, teamwork, and fun on the court!
May 7, 2026 | News, Student Success
COOS BAY, Ore. – Southwestern Oregon Community College is pleased to announce the selection of Joy Gathings and Ruthie Anderson-Castro for the 2026 All-Oregon Academic Team (AOAT). These outstanding student scholars are selected for their academic excellence, leadership, and community service.
Phi Theta Kappa honor society, community college presidents, and community college state associations sponsor the All-State Community College Academic Team ceremonies in 38 participating states. Students from the participating states nominated to the All-USA Community College Academic Team are automatically named to the All-State Community College Academic Teams.
The purpose of the team is to honor academic excellence, celebrate students’ contributions to their communities, promote the value and vital role community colleges play in shaping workforce and leaders, and to provide scholarships to help students achieve their academic and career goals.
“These students are setting the standard for what’s possible,” said OCCA Executive Director Dr. Abby Lee. “They are excelling academically while leading in their communities and overcoming real challenges along the way. Their achievements speak not only to their talent, but to their determination and drive.”
Joy Gathings discovered her personal potential and a clear sense of purpose at Southwestern. She has consistently earned a 3.7–4.0 GPA and is pursuing an Associate of Science in Human Services. Joy plans to establish a center that supports survivors of domestic violence by addressing addiction, building life skills, and offering classes that help individuals move toward safer, healthier, and more fulfilling lives.
Ruthie Anderson-Carson returned to school as an adult while raising a family and managing financial responsibilities. Driven by a lifelong calling to care for others, she is pursuing a career as a registered nurse, with plans to complete a Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Oregon Health & Science University. She began her journey at Southwestern, earning her GED and continuing with steady guidance and encouragement toward her healthcare career.
“I’m honored to recognize these outstanding students and look forward to following their journeys beyond Southwestern. I have no doubt they will go on to do remarkable things,” said Patty Scott, President of Southwestern.
Joy Gathings discovered her personal potential and a clear sense of purpose at Southwestern. She has consistently earned a 3.7–4.0 GPA and is pursuing an Associate of Science in Human Services. Joy plans to establish a center that supports survivors of domestic violence by addressing addiction, building life skills, and offering classes that help individuals move toward safer, healthier, and more fulfilling lives.
