Year in Review, Part 2: Stories of reaching degree goals and honoring great faculty
Photos and story by James Hill
In part two of our year-in-review (if you missed part one, click here), we celebrate the people and milestones that define Portland Community College’s spirit of perseverance and possibility.
From the Class of 2025 crossing the stage at Memorial Coliseum to the inspiring journey of graduate Gina Ferguson, these stories highlight determination, community, and second chances.
We also showcase PCC’s growing impact — from national recognition for student success efforts and innovative new technology spaces to longtime faculty and ESOL instructors opening doors for learners of all ages across our region, proving that opportunity and belonging remain at the heart of everything PCC does.
Class of 2025 Goes Out In Style
Panthers everywhere celebrated its 63rd commencement at Memorial Coliseum, honoring nearly 1,000 graduates. Centered on caring, support and belonging, the ceremony featured President Adrien Bennings, keynote speaker Lisa Mensah, and student speaker Rose Binoya, whose story of resilience and inclusive fitness advocacy inspired the Class of 2025 and hope. Read More.
No Hurdle Too High For Gina Ferguson
After surviving cancer, addiction and homelessness, Gina Ferguson returned to Portland Community College to rebuild her life through technology. A first-generation student and Phi Theta Kappa member, she excelled in Computer Science, earned an associate degree, and will transfer to PSU to study computer science and geographic information systems, thriving. Read More.
Excelencia in Education Recognizes PCC
PCC’s College Access Latinx Initiative (CALI) was named a finalist for the 2025 Examples of Excelencia, recognizing its impact supporting Latiné and Indigenous students. CALI offers mentoring, technology, and culturally responsive guidance, advancing PCC’s Hispanic-Serving Institution goals and creating inclusive spaces where first-generation, DREAMer and mixed-status students thrive. Read More.
PCC Introduces High-Tech Teaching Cleanroom
The Willow Creek Opportunity Center opened Technology Innovation Spaces, including a Teaching Cleanroom, AI Lab and Manufacturing Lab, to train students, workers and partners for high-demand semiconductor, advanced manufacturing and AI careers. State-funded and industry-supported, these facilities deliver hands-on learning, strengthen Oregon’s talent pipeline and boost economic resilience. Read More.
Longtime Welding Faculty Honored
Welding instructor Matt Scott received a 35-year Lifetime Membership Award from the American Welding Society, honoring his decades of teaching and impact. A 32-year instructor and high school liaison, he prioritizes student success, hands-on training, safety and employer partnerships, exemplifying PCC’s excellence in workforce and trades education. Read More.
Bliss Calderón Bridges Language Gap
The PCC Newberg Center relaunched ESOL in 2023, led by instructor Amber Bliss Calderón, a Newberg resident and former overseas teacher. Four levels of integrated-skills classes teach English for life, work and family needs. Local access supports mostly Spanish-speaking adults pursuing better jobs and communication with schools and employers. Read More.
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 »