Chemeketa Community College is a public institution located in Salem, Oregon, with additional campuses in McMinnville, Dallas, Brooks, and Woodburn. Established in 1969, the college serves a diverse student body across a 2,600-square-mile district encompassing Marion, Polk, most of Yamhill, and part of Linn counties. The name "Chemeketa," derived from the Kalapuya language, means "place of peace," reflecting the college's commitment to fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment.
Mission and Vision
Chemeketa's mission is to transform lives and strengthen communities through quality education, services, and workforce training. The vision is to be a gathering place for lifelong learning, emphasizing adaptability, belonging, community, opportunity, and quality.
Academic Programs
The college offers a wide array of programs, including Associate of Applied Science degrees and certificates in over 90 professional-technical fields, as well as Associate of Arts Oregon Transfer Degrees. Notable programs include the Northwest Wine Studies Center in Eola, which features a working vineyard and was the first of its kind in Oregon, developed in response to the growth of the Willamette Valley wine industry.
Student Demographics
As of the 2023-24 academic year, Chemeketa enrolled 12,632 credit students, with 20% attending full-time and 80% part-time. The student body is diverse, with 32.1% identifying as Hispanic/Latinx, 50.8% as White, and 43% identifying as students of color. Approximately 68% of students are 25 years old or younger.
Financials and Funding
Chemeketa Community College operates as a public institution funded through a combination of state allocations, tuition, and grants. In October 2018, the college was awarded a five-year, $2.4 million Developing Hispanic Serving Institution Title V grant aimed at supporting Hispanic and low-income students.
Leadership Team
Dr. Jessica Howard serves as the 11th president of Chemeketa Community College, having assumed the role on July 8, 2019. Prior to joining Chemeketa, Dr. Howard held leadership positions in various educational institutions, bringing a wealth of experience to the college.
Competitor Profile
Chemeketa operates within a competitive landscape of community colleges in Oregon. Notable competitors include Lane Community College in Eugene, which serves over 15,000 students and offers a range of associate degrees and certificates. Another competitor is Klamath Community College in Klamath Falls, serving approximately 1,936 students. Chemeketa distinguishes itself through its extensive program offerings, diverse student body, and commitment to affordability.
Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships
Chemeketa is a federally designated Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI), enabling it to apply for federal grants under Title V and Title III programs. These grants assist in expanding educational opportunities and improving attainment for Hispanic and low-income students. The college's Chemeketa Accelerated Pathways to Success (CAPS) project, funded by a Title V grant, focuses on supporting degree-seeking Hispanic and low-income students throughout their educational journey.
Operational Insights
Chemeketa's strategic focus includes offering small class sizes, flexible scheduling, and low-cost tuition and textbooks. The college provides a variety of student services, including advising, counseling, career services, and tutoring, to support student success. Additionally, Chemeketa offers numerous extracurricular activities, including clubs, athletic teams, and cultural events, fostering a rich and diverse student life.
Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions
Looking ahead, Chemeketa aims to continue its mission of transforming lives and strengthening communities through quality education and workforce training. The college plans to expand its program offerings, enhance student support services, and strengthen partnerships with local businesses and organizations to meet the evolving needs of its diverse student population and the broader community.
Contact Information
For more information, visit Chemeketa Community College's official website.
Chemeketa Community College maintains an active presence on social media platforms, including:
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