Feb 11, 2026 | Community, OCCI News
OCCI will host its first pop-up sale of the term on Friday, February 13, 2026 from 11am – 1pm. Our students have been working hard and practicing their pizza making skills, and who doesn’t love pizza?
This pop-up helps support the OCCI Culinary Team, and gives our students hands-on experience working with the public.
Grab lunch for yourself, earn extra points by picking up some lunch for your Valentine, or be the office Cupid and deliver some LOVEly lunch to your co-workers!
Stop by OCCI (1988 Newmark Ave., Coos Bay) between 11am – 1pm to get some fresh, hand-made pizza. We hope to see you there!
Jan 26, 2026 | Community, News, OCCI News
Sweets, Savories, and Student Support!
Coos Bay, OR – This Valentine’s Day, treat your loved ones — or yourself — to something truly special. Oregon Coast Culinary Institute (OCCI) is once again offering an array of delicious items prepared by talented pastry chefs and culinary students. Proceeds from the sales will directly benefit the culinary competition team, helping these students showcase their skills on a national stage.
VALENTINE’S DAY MENU ITEMS:
- Chocolate Covered Strawberries (GF): $7 each, or $35 for a box of 6
- Red & White French Macarons (GF): $18 for a box of 6, or $36 for a box of 12
- Vanilla and Strawberry flavored
- Frosted Sugar Valentine Cookie: $7 each, or $35 for 6
- Red Velvet Cupcakes: $5 each, or $18 for 4
- Chocolate Assortment Box (GF)*: $18 for a box of 6, $36 for a box of 12
- *NOTE: Available via online ordering only.
- Flavors Include: Strawberry, Passion Fruit, Caramel Marshmallow, Raspberry Dark Chocolate, Luxardo Cherry, Black Currant Cheesecake
- Chocolate Peanut Butter Shortbread: $25
- Dessert “Duo” – Chocolate Obsession/Strawberry Tiramisu: $30
- Pair of Lemon Pot de Creme with Huckleberries (GF): $12
- Charcuterie Plate for Two: $15
- Three-Course Meal for Two: $65
- Includes Shrimp Cocktail, Beef Tenderloin Tips in Mushroom Sauce with Pasta and Vegetables, plus the Dessert Duo
ORDERING DETAILS:
Place your order by Monday, February 9 at 5:00 p.m.:
Order Online
PICKUP INSTRUCTIONS:
Pickup is Friday, February 13 from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. at:
- OCCI (1988 Newmark Ave., Coos Bay)
- If you placed your order in-person or by phone at Past to Present Emporium, please pick up your order there. Orders will be available for pickup until 5:00 p.m. (281 S. Broadway, Coos Bay | 541-808-9553).
Missed the order deadline? Limited items will be available for sale during the pickup window on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last.
Questions? Contact OCCI at 541-888-7309 or via email: lena.chester@socc.edu.
Don’t miss out on these handcrafted Valentine’s favorites! From sweets to full meals, your purchase supports OCCI’s students and their culinary journey.
About Oregon Coast Culinary Institute (OCCI)
The Oregon Coast Culinary Institute (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.
Jan 8, 2026 | Community, News, OCCI News
Coos Bay, OR – High school students with an interest in the culinary and baking arts are invited to a special evening of exploration at Oregon Coast Culinary Institute (OCCI) on Thursday, February 5th, from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. This free event offers a unique opportunity to experience the world of cooking and learn about a future in the culinary field.
Attendees will enjoy live cooking demonstrations, participate in an engaging Q&A session, and meet OCCI’s talented chefs, instructors, and staff. Whether you’re dreaming of a career in the culinary arts or just curious about the craft, this is your chance to get hands-on insights in a fun and focused setting.
Event Details
- What: OCCI Experience Event for High School Students and their Families
- When: Thursday, February 5, 2026 from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m.
- Where: Oregon Coast Culinary Institute, 1988 Newmark Ave., Coos Bay
- Cost: FREE
- RSVP: Email lena.chester@socc.edu or call 541-888-7309 to reserve your spot
Space is limited, so RSVPs are highly encouraged! Don’t miss this chance to discover your culinary potential at OCCI.
Can’t make it to the event? Learn more about OCCI’s Culinary Arts and Baking & Pastry Arts programs at
www.socc.edu/occi, where you can also schedule a personalized campus tour. OCCI offers scholarships, financial aid, and nationally recognized culinary education to help you achieve your career goals.
About Oregon Coast Culinary Institute (OCCI)
The Oregon Coast Culinary Institute (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.
Dec 17, 2025 | Community, Curry Campus, Curry News, Foundation, News, OCCI News
Coos Bay, OR – Students planning to attend Southwestern Oregon Community College during the 2026–27 academic year can begin applying for Southwestern Foundation scholarships starting January 1, 2026.
Thanks to the generosity of donors across our communities, the Southwestern Oregon Community College Foundation awards more than $300,000 in scholarships annually, helping students pursue education, training, and career pathways at Southwestern.
The scholarship application period runs from January 1 – March 1, 2026. All students considering enrollment for the 2026–27 academic year are encouraged to apply, including both full-time and part-time students. Applications submitted by February 1, 2026, will be eligible for a $1,000 “Early Bird” Scholarship.
To learn more and apply, visit www.socc.edu/scholarships.
The Foundation and Financial Aid Office will host a series of drop-in Scholarship and FAFSA workshops to provide additional help and everyone is welcome to swing by:
Coos Campus (Coos Bay) – Tioga #301
- Wednesday, January 21 | 3:00–5:00 p.m.
- Monday, February 9 | 4:00–6:00 p.m.
- Friday, February 13 | 11:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.
- Wednesday, February 25 | 3:00–5:00 p.m.
Curry Campus (Brookings) – Room #232
- Wednesday, February 4 | 10:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m.
Have additional questions about Southwestern Foundation Scholarships? Email foundation@socc.edu or call 541-888-7209.
Dec 10, 2025 | Community, Foundation, News, OCCI News
Coos Bay, OR – The Southwestern Oregon Community College (SWOCC) Foundation, in partnership with the Oregon Coast Culinary Institute (OCCI), invites community members aged 21 and older to the 2026 Uncorking Opportunity! scholarship fundraiser, on Friday, January 23, 2026, from 6-8 p.m. This annual event brings the community together at OCCI to support scholarships that help local students pursue transfer degrees, workforce training, and career advancement.
Guests will enjoy hors d’oeuvres prepared by OCCI student chefs, paired with premier Oregon wines from respected wineries across the Rogue, Umpqua, and Willamette Valleys. The evening also includes a silent auction and a small live auction featuring a variety of “adventure” themed items and experiences that reflect the spirit of community, enrichment, and support for SWOCC students.
Tickets & Event Details
- Tickets: $95 per person, available at socc.edu/give. All ticket proceeds go directly to scholarships. Guests must be 21 years or older.
- Date/Time: Friday, January 23, 6-8 p.m.
- Location: Oregon Coast Culinary Institute, 1988 Newmark Ave in Coos Bay
Purchase Uncorking Tickets
About the SWOCC Foundation
Since 1962, the SWOCC Foundation has supported the College to improve people’s lives – socially, culturally, economically and educationally – through friend-raising and fundraising. The College serves Curry, Coos and western Douglas county residents’ needs for transfer degrees, high-skill job training and community classes. For more information about the foundation, visit www.socc.edu/foundation or contact the Foundation office at 541-888-7209 or foundation@socc.edu.
Dec 4, 2025 | Community, News, OCCI News
Coos Bay, OR – Celebrate the holiday season while supporting a great cause! Oregon Coast Culinary Institute (OCCI) invites the community to purchase festive stollen, handmade by OCCI chefs, from December 6–22, 2025. Proceeds will benefit the culinary competition team, helping these aspiring chefs showcase their skills on a national stage.
What is stollen?
Stollen is a traditional German holiday bread filled with dried fruits, nuts, and almond paste, dusted with powdered sugar for a festive, snowy finish. Known for its rich, slightly sweet flavor, it’s a perfect addition to your holiday table!
Meet-and-Greet Kickoff Event
Join OCCI chefs on December 6 from 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. for a special kickoff event:
- When: December 6, 2025, 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
- Where: Past to Present Emporium, 281 South Broadway, Coos Bay
- What: Meet OCCI’s chef instructors, sample holiday treats, and shop for pastries by Chef Alison Murphy and, of course, stollen.
Sales will continue through December 22nd, so there’s plenty of time to grab delicious handmade treats for your holiday celebrations.
For more information and to purchase stollen, call 541-808-9553.
