Seated L to R: Holli Johnson, Angela VanKrause, Rosemary Pryor Standing L to R: Lisa Fragala, Austin Folnagy, Mike Eyster, Steve Mital
The LCC Board of Education passed a resolution at their March 2 board meeting in support of Oregon Community College Association’s legislative priorities. These priorities include increased dollars for the Community College Support Fund, funding for the Oregon Opportunity Grant program, and legislation clarifying that community colleges may offer Bachelor of Science in Nursing degrees.
Colleges need a roughly 44% increase in funding to continue to maintain current services. Oregon’s Higher Education Coordinating Commission recommends $855 million in ongoing funding and $50 million in one time spending to provide a funding base.
The Oregon Opportunity Grant is the state’s primary source for need-based funding for students. According to the Board of Education press release, Oregon provides $657 per student which is below the US average of $830 and Washington’s average of $1489 per student. The resolution asks for a minimum increase of $200 million.
In 2019, the legislature gave community colleges the authority to give bachelor degrees. The HECC needs additional language to clarify that community colleges can approve Bachelor of Science in Nursing degrees. The nursing industry doesn’t recognize the degree so students who pay for these degrees are at a disadvantage.
“We are proud to support the Oregon Community College Association’s legislative priorities,” said Lane Community College Board Chair, Rosie Pryor. “Community colleges are uniquely positioned to serve all students, regardless of their education and skill level, and to provide the training and education necessary for students and local businesses to thrive. The priorities outlined by OCCA will ensure that community colleges continue to fulfill their vital role in our communities.”
