Last Updated on February 19, 2026 by Jordan Monaco
Salem, OR — Blue Mountain Community College (BMCC) student leaders traveled to Salem this week to participate in Community College Day at the Oregon State Capitol, joining community colleges from across the state to advocate for access to higher education and career technical programs.
Representing BMCC were Associated Student Government (ASG) President Katheryn Gomez and ASG Vice President Katelyn Demianew, who met with state legislators to share the impact of community colleges in rural Oregon and discuss the importance of student access, workforce development, and community partnerships.
During the Senate session, Senator Todd Nash formally welcomed Gomez to the Senate floor and requested a courtesy in her honor. A second courtesy was later requested to share her story as a first-generation college student and her goal to continue her education beyond BMCC.
Gomez, who is studying Business Administration, plans to graduate this year and pursue a bachelor’s degree. As the daughter of immigrant parents, she hopes one day to give back to her family and help them fully achieve the American dream they worked hard to build.
“It was an incredible honor to represent BMCC and our students at the Capitol,” said Gomez. “Community college has opened doors for me, and I’m proud to share that story.”
Demianew, who serves as ASG Vice President, also participated in legislative meetings and advocacy conversations throughout the day, reinforcing the role student leadership plays in shaping the future of Oregon’s community colleges.
In addition to legislative visits, Community College Day featured a Career Technical Education (CTE) showcase in the Capitol lobby, where colleges highlighted hands-on workforce programs that support Oregon industries.
BMCC’s exhibit spotlighted its Meat Science Program, led by Agriculture Science Instructor Matt Liscom and Meat Science Lab Technician Sara Garrow. The program provided educational materials and offered samples of student-produced jerky, demonstrating the applied learning and industry preparation students receive through BMCC’s CTE programs.
“Community colleges are essential to Oregon’s workforce and local economies,” said Jordan Monaco, Director of College Relations at BMCC. “Seeing our students recognized on the Senate floor while also showcasing our career technical programs reflects the full scope of what community colleges provide — opportunity, leadership development, and direct pathways to careers.” Community College Day at the Capitol provides students an opportunity to engage directly with policymakers and share firsthand how community colleges strengthen communities across the state.