Portland Community College | Portland, Oregon

PCC celebrates National Community College Month with stories of impact, innovation and opportunity

Photos and story by James Hill

Portland Community College joins institutions across the country in celebrating April as National Community College Month, highlighting the vital role that Oregon’s 17 community colleges play in providing affordable, accessible and high-quality education to more than 200,000 students annually. 

As the largest post-secondary institution in the state with more than 53,000 students, PCC continues to champion student success, economic mobility, and workforce readiness.

“PCC provides high-quality education and workforce training opportunities and support services to help our students succeed and thrive,” said PCC President Dr. Adrien Bennings. “Services include a wide array of resources to address barriers to entering or completing college; academic support and advising, mentoring, food services, childcare, housing assistance, transportation, career services and more. These comprehensive supports enable students to complete college and achieve economic mobility.”

According to a 2023 economic impact study by Lightcast, Oregon’s community colleges contributed $9.6 billion to the state’s economy in fiscal year 2021-22, supporting nearly 118,000 jobs. 

That equates to one in every 22 jobs in Oregon. Students also see a strong return on their educational investment — earning $5.20 in future wages for every dollar spent, while taxpayers gain $1.30 for every public dollar invested, yielding an annual return of 1.9%.

The 2024 Varying Degrees study by New America reinforces the value of community colleges, finding that Americans regard them as the best investment in higher education when it comes to cost, quality, and return on taxpayer dollars.

PCC is at the forefront of Oregon’s community college system, delivering innovative programs that adapt to local industry needs while opening doors for students from all walks of life.

Here are just a few examples of PCC’s impact:

Faculty Excellence

Robin Fisher, known by students as the “Fairy Job Mother,” was named Educator of the Year by the National Kitchen and Bath Association in March 2025. Likewise, Jay Kuykendall of PCC’s Auto Service Technology program received national recognition as Educator of the Year from the North American Council of Automotive Teachers in November 2024. Both are passionate about seeing their students succeed.

“I want our program recognized as the best two-year residential design program in the U.S.,” said Fisher. “And, I really get jazzed when I hear about students’ successes after graduation.”

Responsive Programs

PCC’s Eye Tech Program debuted a new one-year certificate to replace its former two-year degree, allowing students to enter the workforce faster and more affordably.

“Students gain the same certification opportunities and enter the workforce sooner, which benefits everyone—students, employers, and patients alike,” said Ellie Bessarab, Eye Tech instructor.

Student Opportunity

In March 2025, four PCC students were selected to attend a European Council simulation at the University of Washington, gaining first-hand experience in international diplomacy and leadership.

“Professor Asaadi was absolutely indispensable in this process,” said student Eleanor Song about the experience and support she received. “He helped us prepare and even drove us to the conference. I also received a Dress for Success referral from PCC’s Career Services, which helped me prepare for both this and my internship.”

Alumni Achievement

Alumna Candice Bland, who once dropped out of high school, is now pursuing a master’s degree at George Washington University, exemplifying how PCC helps students defy the odds.

“PCC changed my life,” Bland said. “When I started GED classes, I was welcomed with open arms by staff and faculty. That gave me the confidence and hope to pursue my dreams.”

Community Engagement

Youth Manufacturing Day offered hundreds of students the chance to explore careers in semiconductors and biosciences, building vital connections between education and industry. And, PCC’s Mobile Welding Outreach and Training Center has provided hands-on training to over 500 students across the region, including rural and underserved communities.

“I just can’t wait for the next student that has been in the trailer to show up here at PCC,” said welding faculty Todd Barnett. “It is exactly what the trailer was meant to do, and it’s working out excellently.”