Jun 22, 2026 | Community, News, OCCI News
Coos Bay, OR – Looking for a unique lunch experience this summer? Oregon Coast Culinary Institute (OCCI) at Southwestern Oregon Community College invites the community to enjoy its Summer Restaurant Lunch Series, returning for a limited run in July and August.
Over the course of 12 select days, guests may choose from a restaurant-style lunch menu prepared and served by OCCI culinary students. The experience is more than just a great meal. It is a vital part of OCCI’s training, helping students refine culinary techniques, practice customer service, and collaborate as a team in a fast-paced restaurant environment.
Reservations are now being accepted for all summer lunch dates.
Lunch Service Schedule
Tuesdays–Thursdays | 10:45 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
(Last reservation taken at 1:00 p.m.)
-
July 7, 8, 9
-
July 21, 22, 23
-
July 28, 29, 30
-
August 4, 5, 6
Reservations Required
Seating is limited and reservations are required! Reservations may be made online using the button below:
Make Your OCCI Lunch Reservation!
-
Parties of up to six guests may be reserved.
-
Guests are encouraged to reserve early, as seating is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Whether you’re planning a business lunch, catching up with friends, or simply looking to support students, OCCI’s Summer Restaurant Lunch Series offers a chance to enjoy great food while helping prepare the next generation of culinary professionals.
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 9, 2026 | Community, Curry Campus, News, OCCI News
Coos Bay, OR – The Oregon Coast Culinary Institute (OCCI) at Southwestern Oregon Community College invites the community to our inaugural Oregon Coast Food & Wine Celebration. This is a new community event bringing together exceptional wineries, artisan vendors, and supporters of the culinary arts from across Oregon. This warm and vibrant gathering will take place on July 18th, 2026, at Southwestern Oregon Community College, 1988 Newmark, Ave., Coos Bay, inside the beautiful Umpqua Hall Health & Science Building from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm.
This year’s celebration holds special significance. We are honoring the memory of our cherished colleague, Chef Instructor Laura Williams, who passed away last year. Laura was passionate about food, wine, and teaching, and it’s fitting to create an event that brings those passions together. In her honor, this inaugural celebration will serve as a fundraiser to establish a scholarship in Laura’s name, awarded annually to a student attending the Oregon Coast Culinary Institute. Our hope is to continue this event in the future – growing it into a beloved annual tradition that draws guests from up and down the coast.
This is a ticketed event, with each patron receiving sampling tokens upon entry. Guests may use these tokens for food or wine tastings with the option to purchase additional tokens. All proceeds from ticket and token sales will contribute directly to the Laura Williams Memorial Scholarship. Live music, artisan vendors, and a curated selection of Oregon wineries will help create a lively, welcoming atmosphere for attendees to enjoy.
Attendees will also have the opportunity to purchase wine (bottles or cases) directly from participating wineries. A silent auction will offer exciting experiences, fun gifts, and coastal treats going to the highest bidder.
If attendees desire to contribute directly to the Laura Williams Memorial Scholarship there will be a drop box at the event to leave a donation, or they may donate online.
TICKETS & EVENT DETAILS:
- Date/Time: Saturday, July 18, 2026 from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm
- Location: SWOCC Coos Campus, Umpqua Hall (1988 Newmark Ave., Coos Bay)
- Tickets: $35 per person in advance. $40 at the door. With this entry fee, you will receive 3 wine tokens and 2 food tokens for tastings. Click button below to purchase!
- 21 and older only
- Service Animals only
- Purchase tickets in advance!
Purchase Tickets
PARTICIPATING WINERIES:
- Abacela
- Melrose
- Eola
- Whitetail Ridge
- J Scott
- Richwine
DONATE TO LAURA WILLIAMS MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP:
If you wish to donate directly to the Laura Williams Memorial Scholarship please click below:
Donate to Laura Williams Memorial Scholarship
VENDOR APPLICATION:
To participate as a vendor, please complete the below form.
Vendor Application Form
For more information or if you have other specific questions regarding the event, please contact Lena Chester at 541-888-7309 or lena.chester@socc.edu.
For information about the Oregon Coast Culinary Institute (OCCI), visit: www.socc.edu/occi
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.
President Patty Scott and Rashinda Reed
“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.
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.
