PCC Board of Directors elects new chair, vice chair for 2024-25 academic year
Photos and story by James Hill
The Portland Community College Board of Directors has announced its new leadership for the 2024-25 academic year.
Kristi Wilson of Hillsboro has been elected as the board’s chair, while Mari Watanabe will serve as the vice chair. In recognition of her outstanding service, outgoing Chair Laurie Cremona Wagner was presented with the Crystal Gavel Award by PCC President Adrien Bennings at the July 18 business meeting.
PCC President Adrien Bennings (left) swears in Kristi Wilson.
Wilson, who has been a board member since 2021 and was re-elected in 2023, represents Zone 7 (Western Washington County and parts of Columbia County). A PCC alum and an advocate for community colleges, Wilson has been with the City of Hillsboro for over 20 years. Currently, she is the Workforce Development Manager in the Economic Development Department.
“I am excited about the journey ahead and the opportunity to serve the PCC community in a new capacity,” Wilson said. “I look forward to continued work with our amazing board members that are so dedicated to making education accessible to all who want it.”
She is known for building strong community connections to create and enhance workforce systems and programs. She actively supports various local organizations, including the Hillsboro School District, Girl Scouts, Hillsboro Parks and Recreation, and Hillsboro Soccer Club.
Mari Watanabe with Dr. Bennings.
Watanabe, representing Zone 4 (Northwest and Downtown Portland), was appointed to the board in 2023. With more than 23 years in the Portland Metro region, Watanabe has a long career in both the corporate and nonprofit sectors.
She recently retired after serving as the executive director of Partners In Diversity, an award-winning nonprofit organization focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion. Under her leadership, the organization grew significantly, expanding its membership and staff.
“Thank you to the PCC board for this opportunity to serve as vice chair,” Watanabe added. “I am looking forward to continuing the important work President Bennings and the board have set for this next year.”
The PCC Board of Directors, comprising seven elected members, governs the college by selecting the president, approving staff and faculty hires, overseeing the college budget, and establishing policies.
For more information, visit the PCC Board of Directors webpage.
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 »