President's Office

I feel very fortunate to be a member of the Southwestern community. Since joining the campus in 1993, I have had the chance to watch the college grow while personally growing within. My passion is for student success and my vision is to encourage results.
Our staff and faculty are positioned to make a difference in the lives of our students and fellow members of the community. They work hard to stretch our resources to give our students the best opportunity to succeed in their education.
When you choose Southwestern, you make a commitment to your future success. We, in turn, are committed to your education. Wherever you are in your life’s next dream or goal, we are ready to help you achieve it.
Our College Mission celebrates five decades of College History serving the citizens of the Oregon South Coast. Southwestern is led by a seven member Board of Education elected from our three-county district through Board Policy Governance.
Please explore our web site for the variety of opportunities and paths we can provide. Whatever your dream or goal may be, we are honored to have the opportunity to serve you.

Community colleges are for everyone who seeks learning and career training. Our students also come for independence, second chances and introspection. And Southwestern is a place for friendship. Come visit. We hope to welcome you on a campus tour soon. Patty M. Scott, Ed.D. President

Our Vision

Southwestern leads and inspires lifelong learning
(Adopted June 26, 2006)

Our Mission

Southwestern fulfills the educational and cultural needs of our diverse communities by providing equitable access to exceptional teaching and learning in a collaborative, engaging sustainable environment, which supports innovation, lifelong enrichment, and contribution to global society.
(Adopted Dec. 7, 2020)

Guiding Principles

• Intentional Excellence
Use objective information to guide our decisions and value all people with whom we interact.
• Lifelong Learning
Cultivate the natural human need for individual growth and intellectual development.
• Student Centeredness
Focus on helping students achieve their learning goals and supporting opportunities for individual success.
• Collaborative Innovation
Build a community in the pursuit of new ideas, informed risk-taking, and entrepreneurial endeavors.

(Adopted Dec. 7, 2020)