This content was published: December 18, 2023. Phone numbers, email addresses, and other information may have changed.
Inspiring design impresses community at Opportunity Center open house
Photos and story by James Hill
Nearly 80 community members attended the Opportunity Center at 42nd Avenue’s open house.
In a celebration of community and collaboration, PCC hosted a vibrant Open House earlier this month, welcoming over 75 community members, local business representatives, and participants from the Oregon Department of Human Services. The event showcased PCC’s new facility, designed by BORA and built by Anderson Construction, receiving praise for its beautiful and soothing design.
Pam Hester, program dean for Community Workforce Development, shared, “Without exception, everyone was impressed.” Attendees enjoyed delicious food from PCC’s catering services, mingled, and explored the inviting space on guided tours. One community member expressed a desire to take classes in the inspiring environment, emphasizing the positive impact of the design on learning. The recent ribbon-cutting ceremony marked the grand opening, symbolizing PCC’s commitment to fostering a space where education and community thrive.
Dean for Community Workforce Development Pam Hester (left) with Opportunity Center Program Specialist Fadwa Basal.
With funding from the 2017 bond measure, the Opportunity Center at 42nd Avenue (previously the Portland Metropolitan Workforce Training Center) was redeveloped. The center is now a two-story facility with classrooms, offices, and meeting rooms for both PCC staff and community partners such as the Oregon Department of Human Services. The development also fits in with the college’s Strategic Plan, where PCC removes barriers to entry and engagement for prospective students through partnerships with local employers, including private, public, and non-profit sectors, and community stakeholders.
About James Hill
James G. Hill, an award-winning journalist and public relations writer, is the Director of Public Relations at Portland Community College. A graduate of Portland State University, James has worked as a section editor for the Newberg Graphic... more »