Last Updated on April 30, 2026 by Jordan Monaco

At Blue Mountain Community College, student success isn’t just measured in grades—it’s built through perseverance, leadership, and a commitment to something bigger than yourself. This year, four BMCC students have been recognized at the state level for doing exactly that.

Katheryn Gomez (Pendleton), Stephanie Tipton (Pilot Rock), Roy Jones (Pendleton), and Noah Brunette (Pendleton) have been named to the 2026 All-Oregon Academic Team—an honor that recognizes the top community college students across the state for academic achievement, leadership, and service.

The recognition is part of a statewide program led by the Oregon Community College Association, celebrating students who are not only excelling in the classroom, but showing up for their communities in meaningful ways.

Katheryn Gomez and Stephanie Tipton attended the official recognition event held on April 17th, standing alongside peers from across Oregon as representatives of BMCC and Eastern Oregon communities.

“These students represent the very best of what community colleges are designed to do,” said Mark Browning, President of Blue Mountain Community College. “They’ve balanced responsibilities, pushed through challenges, and committed themselves to their education in a way that will continue to shape their futures—and the communities they come from. We are incredibly proud of each of them.”

The All-Oregon Academic Team is part of a national effort to elevate community college students who are making a difference—often while balancing work, family, and other responsibilities. For many, the path to recognition isn’t linear, but it is intentional.

At BMCC, stories like these aren’t the exception—they’re the foundation. Students from across the region step into classrooms with different starting points, and leave with the skills, confidence, and direction to move forward.

And this year, four of them are being recognized among the best in Oregon. For more information about the All-Oregon Academic Team, visit the Oregon Community College Association website.