Aug 19, 2024 | Alumni, Community, News, Staff & Administration
Inspiring tomorrow’s firefighters, paramedics, food producers, and dental professionals
Southwestern is pleased to deliver year after year on our 64-year commitment to provide our students with exceptional teaching and learning environments.
Come fall term, we will celebrate completion of a $5.5 million project to modernize 18,240 sq. ft. of space in historic Coaledo Hall and nearby Sumner Hall on the Coos Campus. This project culminates five years and $43 million of infrastructure investment to update buildings, energy systems and teaching space on both the Coos and Curry Campuses.
Built in 1965, Coaledo Hall served as the College’s science lab building until it was taken out of service in 2021 with the opening of advanced laboratories in Umpqua Hall. Today, Coaledo will become a new flexible learning space with technology-rich labs for Forestry and Agroecology.
The development closes the loop on creating a holistic center for Forestry and Agroecology students. They now can move with peers between collaborating in the classroom environment to working in the campus’ urban forest/wetland environment and food production gardens.
A renovated Sumner Hall nearby, the site of former nursing labs, remains dedicated to training tomorrow’s allied health professionals. It will serve as the home for a re-envisioned Dental Assisting program and an ambulance simulation lab and classrooms to serve students pursuing careers in Fire Science, EMS and Paramedicine.
Overall, this work helps the College hire and retain highly skilled faculty. It ensures residents from the south coast have access to more affordable college education and high-skill job training equivalent to that offered in metro areas. Ultimately, the result is a more stable workforce, and economically healthier communities and families.
This current project was funded with a $2.75 million capital grant from the Oregon Legislature matched with $2.75 million in grant funds from the U.S. Economic Development Administration.
Julie Ryan
Julie Ryan returns to Southwestern as the EMS Program Director and Assistant Professor of Paramedicine. She holds a bachelor’s degree from Linfield University and is a Nationally Registered Paramedic and an Oregon Licensed Paramedic. Previously she was a member of the Reach and Treat Team, providing advanced life support and technical rescue in wilderness environments, and holds Rope Rescue Technician and Advanced Swift Water Rescue certifications. Ryan served as a Flight Paramedic, a Paramedic for Bay Cities Ambulance, and most recently as a Firefighter/Paramedic for Cascade Locks Fire and EMS. With thirty years of EMS experience, she brings invaluable knowledge and lived experience to the table.
Madi Ogle
Madi Ogle grew up in Sandpoint, Idaho, and attended Boise State University earning an Associate of Science degree. In 2020 she enrolled in SWOCC’s Dental Assisting Program. Madi deepened her love for dental health, excelling in the program, and working as a licensed Oregon Expanded Functions Dental Assistant. While working in the field she was inspired to pursue other career opportunities and progressed through various roles at Southwestern: Campus Store, Student Success Center, and then to the Financial Aid office as the Student Employment Coordinator. Now in her new role as the Dental Assisting Instructor she brings a unique perspective and commitment to the education of dental professionals.
Michael Seldon
Michael Seldon brings over thirty years of career experience in emergency services disciplines including structural/municipal firefighting with the Coos Bay Fire Department, hazardous materials team technician, emergency room trauma technician, and ambulance-based emergency medical technician. He holds certifications in firefighter 1 and 2, fire officer, fire instructor, incident safety officer, vehicle extrication, heavy rescue systems and practices, pumper and aerial apparatus operator, and SCBA maintenance and repair. Seldon earned an Associate of Science degree in Public Fire Service and graduated from the fire academy at Rancho Santiago College in Santa Ana, California. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Mass Media Communications – Radio/TV/Film from Long Beach State University.
Aug 5, 2024 | Curry Campus, News
COOS BAY, OR – Southwestern Oregon Community College will be hosting a financial aid workshop on the Coos Campus (1988 Newmark Ave., Coos Bay) on Wednesday, August 14, 2024. This event is free and open to all. It will take place on the third floor of Tioga Hall in the Tutoring Center from 9:00am to 6:00pm.
The first 23 people to arrive will receive a $10 Gas/Grocery card.
CURRY COUNTY RESIDENTS: Join us via zoom from the Curry Campus, Room 232 (96082 Lone Ranch Parkway, Brookings). The first eight people to arrive will receive a $10 Gas/Grocery card.
Financial aid and TRIO advisors will be available to assist people with submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA is the first step in securing funding to pay for the costs associated with going to college. Applying for federal and state aid can be time consuming and difficult. The Financial Aid staff at Southwestern will provide current students, prospective students, and the community assistance with navigating this process.
The workshop offers hands-on assistance from trained professionals who will be available to help you navigate the FAFSA from beginning to end. Our staff will also be able to access any successfully submitted FAFSAs that we have received to review them for errors and assist you with making corrections to the form.
It is important to submit your FAFSA as soon as possible. Fall term classes begin on September 16, 2024.
For more information contact Stevie Jennings, Director of Financial Aid at Southwestern via email at stevie.jennings@socc.edu or by calling 541-888-1615.
General information regarding financial aid can be found on our website: HERE.
Jul 15, 2024 | Curry Campus
BROOKINGS, OR – Southwestern Oregon Community College invites residents of the College district to learn about and offer comments on the Mid-Cycle Review to the College’s master facilities plan 2020-30.
Southwestern is hosting an open house from 2 to 3:30 p.m., Monday, July 29, 2024, at the Curry Campus, 96082 Lone Ranch Parkway, Brookings.
The plan guides the College as it develops and adapts programs serving students and community members on the Curry and Coos campuses, with a vision toward leading and inspiring lifelong learning on the south Oregon coast. In reviewing and updating the plan, the College is striving to manage its facilities and campuses with a long-term view toward economic, social, and environmental sustainability.
Approaching the halfway point, the College wants to review the plan with stakeholders and listen to input on potential updates. Members of the public will have an opportunity to visit with planners and college staff, view schematics, ask questions and share thoughts.
Topics for discussion include program needs and space use, open spaces, accessibility, signage, lighting, technology, and other areas.
For more information, please contact Anne Farrell-Matthews, Communications Administrator at 541-888-7612 or amatthews@socc.edu.
Jul 15, 2024 | Community, Foundation, News
BROOKINGS, OR – Southwestern Oregon Community College invites residents of the college district to learn about and offer comments on the mid-cycle update to the College’s master facilities plan 2020-30.
Southwestern is hosting an open house from 2 to 3:30 p.m., Monday, July 29, 2024, at the Curry Campus, 96082 Lone Ranch Parkway, Brookings.
The plan guides the College as it develops and adapts programs serving students and community members on the Curry and Coos campuses, with a vision toward leading and inspiring lifelong learning on the south Oregon coast. In updating the plan, the College is striving to manage its facilities and campuses with a long-term view toward economic, social, and environmental sustainability.
Approaching the halfway point, the College wants to review the plan with stakeholders and listen to input on potential updates. Members of the public will have an opportunity to visit with planners and college staff, view schematics, ask questions and share thoughts.
Topics for discussion include program needs and space use, open spaces, accessibility, signage, lighting, technology, and other areas.
For more information, please contact Anne Farrell-Matthews, Communications Administrator at 541-888-7612 or amatthews@socc.edu.
Jul 3, 2024 | Community, Curry Campus, Foundation, News
Coos Bay, OR – The community is invited to join the inaugural SWOCC Foundation Classic, hosted by Bandon Dunes Golf Resort and the Bandon Dunes Charitable Foundation. The event is scheduled from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 26, 2024, at Bandon Dunes’ NEW course, Shorty’s (19-hole, par 3 course).
The SWOCC Foundation classic will welcome 20 teams, with four golfers per team. Individuals are welcome, too, and will be placed on teams. Tee times open every 15 minutes starting at 8 a.m., and golfers can select tee time preferences based on availability. This is a walking event.
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, (541) 888-7209 or at Event Sponsor Registration and Event Individual Registration.
The SWOCC Foundation Classic is designed as a fun, low-key golf classic for golfers of all skill levels and ages. Meet SWOCC’s 2024-25 golf team athletes and new 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 here -> https://bandondunesgolf.com/golf/golf-courses/shortys/
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.
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.
Jul 3, 2024 | Community, News, OCCI News
Coos Bay, OR – Diners and community members are invited to once again indulge at the Oregon Coast Culinary Institute (OCCI) as it brings back its highly anticipated summer lunches and restaurant service. These events provide students with valuable real-world experience as they prepare to enter the culinary field.
Over the course of select dates during three weeks in July and August, these student-run events will offer various dining experiences for the community. Each week features a different type of dining, allowing students to utilize OCCI’s new food truck and gain experience in a restaurant setting.
Weekly Dining Experiences:
To make your reservation for a Week 2 or Week 3 luncheon, please email shawn.warren@socc.edu or call 541-888-1540.
Week 1 (July 23-25): “Food Truck Extravaganza” and La Patisserie Bakery
Enjoy lunch options from OCCI’s new food truck and pizza oven, with freshly baked delights available from La Patisserie bakery.
No Reservations Necessary: Indoor seating is on a first-come, first-served basis; seated orders will not be taken.
Dates: Tuesday, July 23, Wednesday, July 24, and Thursday, July 25
Time: 11:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Week 2 (July 30 – Aug. 1): Summer Restaurant and La Patisserie Bakery
Dine at tables and order from a three-course menu, with freshly baked delights from La Patisserie bakery also available.
Reservations Highly Encouraged: Reservations start at 11:00 a.m. with final seating at 1:30 p.m. No groups over eight people. Walk-ins are not guaranteed and depend on available seating.
Dates: Tuesday, July 30, Wednesday, July 31, and Thursday, August 1
Time: 11:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Week 3 (Aug. 6-8): Summer Restaurant and La Patisserie Bakery
Dine at tables and order from a three-course menu, with freshly baked delights from La Patisserie bakery also available. Note: this menu will be different from the menu available on Week 2.
Reservations Highly Encouraged: Reservations start at 11:00 a.m. with final seating at 1:30 p.m. No groups over eight people. Walk-ins are not guaranteed and depend on available seating.
Dates: Tuesday, August 6, Wednesday, August 7, and Thursday, August 8
Time: 11:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
We hope you join us for these unique dining experiences! Your participation supports the next generation of culinary professionals. For more information about OCCI and the degrees and certificates offered, visit www.socc.edu/occi.
Jun 17, 2024 | Community, News
COOS BAY, OR – Southwestern Oregon Community College invites 7th to 12th grade students to join us for four days of hands-on “Natural Disaster” activities with STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) professors and student researchers. Our summer STEAM Academy will run from Monday, August 12th through Thursday, August 15th, 2024, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. We’ll begin each day in Umpqua Hall’s lecture room (184) on the Coos Campus (1988 Newmark Ave., Coos Bay).
A cool escape room, a guided hike at the South Slough Reserve, watching “Force Five!”, a weather Discovery Dome planetarium show (a digital theater space that immerses students on an adventure) are just a few of the awesome things we have planned!
Lunch, snacks, and transportation for the field trip will be provided. The cost is $50 per student. Spots are limited to 15 so register soon. Scholarships are available.
For more information, registration, and scholarships contact Krystal Hopper Meyers, STEAM Pathways Assistant, at 541-888-7416, or krystal.hopper@socc.edu.
Jun 7, 2024 | Community, News
Coos Bay, OR – Southwestern Oregon Community College (SWOCC) athletics is pleased to host a two-day 2024 Laker Youth Basketball Camp on June 17-18 at the Recreation Center gymnasium. This camp is a fantastic opportunity for young athletes to develop their skills, make new friends, and enjoy the game under the guidance of experienced coaches.
The camp schedule for both days is as follows:
- Athletes just completing 1st – 3rd Grade: 9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.
- Athletes just completing 4th – 8th Grade: 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
The registration fee for each camper for both days is $60. Payment is accepted at the door and checks should be made out to SWOCC Basketball.
Pre-registration is encouraged (on-site registration will also be accepted). To pre-register:
- Complete the 2024 Laker Youth Basketball Camp Form
- Complete the Basketball Hold Harmless Form
For any additional questions, contact SWOCC’s head women’s basketball coach Heather Weber at 541-391-3494 or email heather.weber@socc.edu.
Don’t miss this opportunity for your young athlete to learn basketball skills from SWOCC basketball coaches and players! Sign up today and join us for two days of learning, skill-building and a lot of fun on the court.
Jun 5, 2024 | Alumni, News, Student Success
Southwestern Oregon Community College’s 2024 Commencement Ceremony will take place on Friday, June 14, 2024, at noon in Prosper Hall on the Coos Campus, 1988 Newmark Ave., Coos Bay.
WATCH A LIVE STREAM OF THE CELEBRATION ON SOUTHWESTERN’S YOUTUBE CHANNEL HERE.
Southwestern is proud of the 2024 graduates! This year the College is pleased to honor a total of 401 graduates, from 24 states and eight countries.
Degrees being awarded are:
- 163 Associate of Arts Oregon Transfer
- 96 Associate of Applied Science
- 48 Associate of General Studies
- 52 Associate of Science
- 100 Certificates of Completion (one year)
Southwestern also congratulates 15 local high school students who acquired their associate degrees at the same time they were completing their high school diplomas.
Guest attendance at the ceremony is by ticket only. The celebration can be viewed live via Southwestern’s YouTube channel.
Additional information for graduates and their families can be found on the Graduation web page.
Graduating Class of 2024
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GH = Graduating with Honors, 3.75 GPA PK = Member Phi Theta Kappa V = Valedictorian, 4.00 GPA
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Jun 4, 2024 | Alumni, News, Student Success
Coos Bay, OR – Southwestern Oregon Community College is pleased to announce Reilly Meehan is the 2024 Distinguished Alumnus. Meehan graduated in 2011 from Southwestern with an Associate of Applied Science degree in Culinary Arts.
The Distinguished Alumni award recognizes individuals who demonstrate significant contributions to their professions, communities, or academia.
“Being chosen as the 2024 SWOCC Distinguished Alumni is a high honor and I am beyond grateful for the opportunity to continue to represent SWOCC and OCCI for years to come,” Meehan said.
“I was given the opportunity to pursue a career that not only allows me creative expression but also freedom and a space for individuality – all thanks to the nurturing nature of the staff and teachers I crossed paths with during my time as a student here. I look forward to seeing what this year’s graduates have to bring to this world and will continue to push myself to be the best role model I can for future graduates from this amazing program.”
The world first noticed Chef Reilly Meehan as an award winner. He won Best Young Chef in the World 2011 at the Chaines Des Rotisseurs Jenunes Comms competition in Istanbul, Turkey. That year at age 21, he was the first American to win the award – and the youngest award winner. He followed it up with awards in 2019 and 2022 – ACF Chef of the Year and Americas Global Chef Challenge champion.
Chef Meehan also is a natural teacher. An online mentor, he inspires people who are into food and non-foodies to get into food. This TikTok influencer has 391,000 people following his culinary video posts. Nearly 200,000 people follow him on Instagram.
“Reilly encompasses the best of both worlds,” says Executive Chef Randy Torres. “You can tell he has classical training with Old World style, but with a very modern approach. Fresh ideas. Inspirational. And really, he is inspirational to all genres of people from grandmas to Master Chefs.”
Meehan grew up in Central California. He first connected with Chef Torres as a high schooler during a culinary institute competition in San Jose. He enrolled at the school to learn from Chef Torres, who put together a competition team. Meehan learned and excelled. First competition he won a gold medal.
Torres soon moved to Oregon Coast Culinary Institute. In 2010, he began building the Youth Competition Team for the 2012 Culinary Olympics. Wanting to be on Torres’ team, Meehan followed him to Coos Bay to finish his studies. In 2011, he graduated and worked his way to fame.
Chef Meehan has worked at The Ritz Carlton, San Francisco’s famed The Bohemian Club and owned a restaurant. Now, as a private chef, Meehan jets between Phoenix and Southampton, N.Y. During moments of down time, he inspires thousands of people worldwide as an iconic, charismatic social media culinary teacher.
“Why he’s gaining success in his social media endeavors is his approachability and his overall demeanor,” says Torres. “Reilly’s a welcoming person and you belong in whatever he’s doing. He’s a black tie and T-shirt all rolled into one. He’s a complete package. You can have a beer with him or a glass of champagne.”
It’s very rare to ever see that in a chef. That’s why Southwestern is pleased to celebrate Chef Reilly Meehan as 2024 Distinguished Alum, and especially this year on the 25th anniversary of the Oregon Coast Culinary Institute at Southwestern.
