Office of the President

Federal monitoring communications

January 30, 2025

Message from President Bennings

Dear Community,

I would like to take a moment to address concerns that may have arisen in response to the recent executive orders and actions issued by the new administration. Please rest assured that the college is closely monitoring all developments related to these, particularly those that may affect students and the college. There is uncertainty around how these orders will specifically affect our work moving forward. However, we are in regular communication with partners and will ensure that Portland Community College remains informed and prepared to respond to any changes or challenges that may come our way.

We understand that uncertainty in federal policy can create uneasiness, and we are committed to keeping you updated. Students and the community remain our top priority, and we will do everything necessary to navigate these times while maintaining the high-quality education and support services PCC is known for.

Thank you for your continued commitment to our students and mission.

Sincerely,

Dr. Adrien L. Bennings
President, Portland Community College

March 6, 2025

Message from the President’s Cabinet

Dear PCC Community,

For more than 60 years, Portland Community College has been leading efforts to make education more accessible and equitable in our region. This enduring commitment to student success has shaped the experiences of thousands of Oregonians, including many who navigate barriers to education, and we are proud to serve as a conduit for opportunity for so many in our community.

In recent weeks, federal agencies have issued new guidance and executive orders that have implications for institutions of higher education, requiring careful legal and policy review. PCC leadership is committed to full compliance with all civil rights laws, including Title VI of the 1964 Civil Rights Act, and we recognize the importance of making timely, well-informed decisions that balance our legal obligations with our institutional values.

To that end, we wanted to share with you that we have recently established a cross-departmental Federal Response Task Force, which has been meeting regularly to monitor regulatory changes, assess the potential impact on college policies and programs, and provide recommendations to the President’s Cabinet. Given the complexity of these issues, the task force is evaluating each potentially impacted area of our College on a case-by-case basis. Their goal is to ensure that any actions we take are both legally compliant and in the best interest of our students, employees, and community.

At this time, PCC programs and student support services continue as planned. We remain steadfast in our mission to provide an inclusive, welcoming environment to all learners. We will provide updates as new information becomes available and remain transparent about any changes that may be necessary.

Thank you for your dedication to PCC’s mission and to the students and communities we serve.

Sincerely,

President’s Cabinet

March 21, 2025

Message from the Federal Response Task Force

Dear PCC Community,

As co-chairs of the PCC Federal Response Taskforce, which was created to analyze and respond to the rapidly changing policies on the Federal level, we are aware of the recent Executive Order to close the Department of Education signed by President Trump.

Understandably, the news of this Executive Order has raised concerns within our community, and we want to assure you that we are continuing to closely monitor the situation and analyze the potential impacts.

To provide some context, the latest executive order seeks to reduce the scope and influence of the Department of Education by shifting certain responsibilities and funding to state and local governments. The White House has said the department will close beyond its “core necessities,” but will continue Pell grants and managing federal student loans. It also calls for the reevaluation of various federal education programs and initiatives, potentially affecting funding allocations and regulatory oversight.

While details of how this will unfold remain unclear, we will do our best to keep you informed with new updates. We want to emphasize that services at the college will continue as normal, and we are committed to supporting our students and community, while maintaining the high-quality education and services that you all provide every day.

The Taskforce includes cross-departmental participation from: Student Affairs; Academic Affairs; College Relations; Finance Operations and Compliance; Marketing and Communications; Strategy, Policy, and Integrated Planning; People Strategy, Equity, & Culture; Financial Aid and Veterans Services; Government Relations, and Student Belonging and Wellbeing. We are actively engaging in regular discussions with our partners: the Oregon Congressional Delegation, the Higher Education Coordinating Commission, Oregon Universities and Colleges, and other relevant stakeholders. We will take all necessary steps to ensure that our institution remains a strong and resilient community for both our students and employees.

Thank you for your ongoing commitment and professionalism in a very challenging time in higher education. We value your continued dedication and are here to support you as we navigate through this evolving situation together.

Jennifer Ernst, Vice President of Academic Affairs
Sage Learn, Executive Director of College Relations

April 11, 2025

Message from Federal Relations Task Force

Dear PCC Community,

As co-chairs of the Federal Response Task Force, we are committed to communicating regularly despite the challenge of limited details available. We know that this uncertainty makes us all anxious about the current state of higher education, and the lack of information may be frustrating. Our goal is to keep you informed, as we closely monitor the Federal landscape and analyze potential impacts to students or the college.

Recently, some F-1 visas have been revoked for students studying at colleges and universities across the United States. There are currently 3 students at PCC who are experiencing this situation. To protect student privacy, we can’t comment on individual situations related to F-1 international student visas. What we can share is should a student’s visa status change, PCC’s practice is to offer resources and support through our Office of International Student Services (OISS) and assist them through the process. The team will continue to monitor, connect with other schools, and provide support to students when changes arise.

In regards to the executive order mentioned in the last update, which seeks to reduce the scope of the Department of Education by shifting responsibilities and funding to state and local governments, we still have few details of timing and how this will unfold. Oregon Attorney General Rayfield has joined a coalition of 20 other attorneys general to file for an injunction as part of a lawsuit to stop the dismantling of the Department of Education.

The State of Oregon and the Higher Education Coordinating Commission (HECC) remain engaged in supporting Oregon’s colleges, and HECC now has a web page where you can keep informed.

Your ongoing dedication and adaptability are deeply appreciated, and we want to reassure you that services at the college continue as normal. At the heart of everything we do is our shared commitment to uplift our students and strengthen our community.

The Federal Response Taskforce is a temporary group composed of staff across the college in areas that deal closely with Federal programs, funding, or initiatives to rapidly share information and analyze new or revised federal policies that potentially impact the college. This information is then rapidly shared with impacted people. Participants provide updates from their respective teams, including Student Affairs; Academic Affairs; College Relations; College Operations; Finance and Compliance; Marketing and Communications; Strategy, Policy, and Integrated Planning; People Strategy, Equity, & Culture; Financial Aid and Veterans Services; Government Relations; Enrollment Management; and Student Belonging and Wellbeing. The expertise of this team helps ensure we can quickly get information in a changing environment and will continue to meet while there is a need.

If you wish to meet with us to discuss the impact on your particular department, please reach out, and we will be happy to schedule a meeting.

Your Federal Task Force Co-chairs,
Jennifer Ernst, Vice President of Academic Affairs
Sage Learn, Executive Director of College Relations

May 2, 2025

Dear PCC Community,

In April, over 300 employees signed a letter that was delivered to the PCC Cabinet in regard to the Federal Response Task Force. As co-chairs, we would like to acknowledge the concerns raised and provide additional context for the work we are leading.

As the college navigates a rapidly changing federal education landscape, we continue to face a significant amount of uncertainty about the future. A lack of clear guidance from federal agencies has made grappling with changes confusing and distressing for both students and employees. We are committed to keeping our community informed as we monitor and assess potential risks and impacts to our college.

Below is a timeline of communications that address many of the questions referenced in the employee letter:

The Federal Response Task Force is a temporary group composed of staff across the college in areas that deal directly with federal programs, funding, and initiatives. Its role is to rapidly review, vet, and share information about emerging policy changes with impacted departments. Participating areas include: Student Affairs; Academic Affairs; College Relations; College Operations; Finance and Compliance; Marketing and Communications; Strategy, Policy, and Integrated Planning; People Strategy, Equity, & Culture; Financial Aid and Veterans Services; Government Relations, Enrollment Management, and Student Wellbeing, Engagement & Belonging.

The Task Force ensures that the college can quickly and accurately review new information and will continue to meet as long as there is a need.

Additional resources available:

We are available to meet with any group across the college to discuss questions and concerns, and we have met with multiple teams already. Additionally, we are partnering with a coalition of student services leaders convened by Student Wellbeing, Engagement, and Belonging to support student communications, strategies, and activities. This group includes student affairs leaders, AP and classified staff, and an ESOL faculty member.

We may not have immediate answers in this evolving environment, but we are here to support you. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you would like to schedule a meeting with us.

A positive update: Since the last communication, all previously impacted PCC international students have had their F-1 Visa status reinstated.

As shared prior, services at the college continue as normal. While we cannot speak to future developments beyond our control, there is no information to suggest any immediate or significant changes. Our focus remains firmly on serving students and our community in accordance with our mission.

Our hope during these uncertain times is that we all treat each other with extra grace and support. Thank you for the shared commitment to our students and community.

Federal Task Force Co-chairs,
Jennifer Ernst, Vice President of Academic Affairs
Sage Learn, Executive Director of College Relations

August 1, 2025

Message from the Federal Response Task Force

Dear PCC Community,

The Federal Response Task Force is continuing to monitor and respond to federal policy changes that may affect our students and programs. Since our last communication, there have been new developments related to Pell Grant eligibility, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) eligibility, and grant disbursements, along with updated guidance from the Department of Education. We’re sharing the latest information below, along with resources to help you support students and colleagues who may be impacted.

Workforce Pell is now law, which will extend Pell Grant eligibility to short-term, career-focused programs previously ineligible for federal aid. Students enrolled in eligible workforce programs (those between 150 and 599 clock hours and 8 and 15 weeks) will be eligible. The change is set to go into effect in July 2026, expanding access to short-term career training programs for our students.

Changes to SNAP eligibility may mean reduced resources for students and families we serve. The changes will reduce benefits and eligibility for some individuals, these will not go into effect in Oregon until at least 2026. PCC will continue to monitor, advocate and provide information for those who rely on these services. Learn more about the impacts to SNAP and the Oregon Health Plan.

The Department of Education paused disbursements to some grant funded programs, including funded projects at PCC. As of late last week, many of the dollars were released, including Title II and TRIO Student Support Services funding. There are a small number still frozen and we are actively working to get additional information with the assistance of our congressional delegation. PCC will continue to provide services for programs still awaiting disbursement through August, as we await further news from the Department.

Lastly, we want to keep the college updated on new guidance from the Department of Education on examining the citizenship of students. Some grants already require verification of citizenship, and we have made every effort to comply with those requirements. We will be reviewing new information as it becomes available so that we can better understand what this means for PCC.

There are many resources available for the PCC community. A few we would like to highlight include:

In this challenging time, we recognize that these topics are complex and important, and we’re committed to sharing as much information as possible, while ensuring accuracy in our communications. The Federal Response Taskforce meets on a weekly basis and is in contact with teams in areas impacted by federal changes. We continue our offer to meet and discuss questions and concerns; please feel free to reach out.

Federal Task Force Co-chairs,
Jennifer Ernst, Vice President of Academic Affairs
Sage Learn, Executive Director of College Relations

September 23, 2025

PCC Community Update on Federal Actions

Dear Colleagues,

As we start a new academic year, we want to share some important updates from the Federal Response Task Force: a cross-departmental task force whose role is to rapidly respond to federal regulatory changes that potentially impact Portland Community College.

Department of Education Grants

College Assistance Migrant Program (CAMP) and High School Equivalency Program (HEP) good news: We received CAMP grant funding and can continue serving students through this vital program! Thank you to everyone who worked through uncertainty to connect students without high school diplomas to education, apprenticeships, and jobs.

Unfortunately, the Department of Education has canceled new applications for CAMP and HEP grants for 2025. The National HEP CAMP Association is still fighting this decision in court.

Upward Bound, Talent Search, Student Support Services (TRIO)

Funding for the Cascade TRIO SSS program has been approved and will move forward as planned. We’re still waiting to hear about a new grant for Rock Creek.

Child Care Access Means Parents in School (CCAMPIS)

Our CCAMPIS grant has been renewed! This program continues to support our parenting students.

Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) Updates

Federal support for HSIs continues to face challenges. A lawsuit in Tennessee is questioning the program’s legality, and the Department of Education has declined to defend it. Mandatory funding will continue, but several grant programs will be cut and funds redirected.

Despite this development, PCC is still committed to becoming an HSI, to supporting our Latine students in reaching their goals, and to building inclusive learning environments. Our HSI Taskforce will continue to move their work forward this year.

International Student Rule Changes

The Department of Homeland Security has proposed replacing the “duration of status” for F-1 international students with a fixed two-year limit for community college students. Students would have to apply (and pay) for more time if they need to finish a degree, transfer, gain work authorization, or begin an associate degree after ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages).

This change could limit international students’ opportunities, including restricting them to just one associate degree. PCC will be submitting a formal comment. Faculty and staff who work with F-1 students can submit their own comments. Media questions should be directed to our Public Relations team.

Possible Government Shutdown

Congress has until Sept. 30 to pass a budget or continuing resolution (CR). If there is a short shutdown, we expect little or no immediate impact on our services or financial aid. A longer shutdown could cause disruptions, and we are monitoring the situation closely.

We appreciate all you do for students and our community. We’ll keep you updated as we learn more and continue advocating for PCC at both the federal and state level.

Sincerely,

Federal Task Force Co-chairs
Jennifer Ernst, Vice President of Academic Affairs
Sage Learn, Executive Director of College Relations

October 2, 2025

PCC Federal Response Taskforce Community Update

PCC Community,

In light of the recent announcement from the federal administration about Oregon National Guard deployment in Portland, we wanted to highlight the policies in place and provide reassurance that PCC is committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment for every member of our community.

At this time, there has been no National Guard or U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity on or near PCC campuses or centers. PCC does not enforce federal immigration laws and upholds confidentiality and privacy. It is important to note that no student or employee information will be shared without a lawful subpoena or judicial warrant or without approval in compliance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).

The PCC Public Safety Team and our College Activation Team work closely with partners in the community to stay informed and are trained and prepared to respond should there be any federal presence on campus. If a federal official is on campus, immediately notify Public Safety via their emergency line at 971-722-4444 and direct any questions to the responding Public Safety representative. The full procedure regarding federal immigration enforcement authorities, including ICE enforcement, on campus is available on the DREAMers Resource Center website, and you can request Community Response and Know Your Rights cards. If you or your team are interested in learning more or bringing a trainer to your department, email publicsafety@pcc.edu.

The support resources below are available for both PCC staff and students:

Additionally, in a message last week, we addressed a possible government shutdown. Congress did not pass a budget by September 30, and the federal government was shut down as of October 1. We expect little or no immediate impact on our programs, services, or financial aid. A longer shutdown could cause disruptions, and we are monitoring the situation closely.

We will continue to send out updates to keep the PCC community informed. You can view prior communications from the Federal Response Task Force.

In these moments of uncertainty, remember that you are not alone and our community is resilient. Please do not hesitate to reach out with questions; we are happy to meet with our colleagues across the college to answer questions and provide support.

Sincerely,

PCC Federal Response Taskforce Co-Chairs
Jennifer Ernst, VP of Academic Affairs
Sage Learn, Executive Dir. of College Relations
Josh Peters McBride, Assoc. VP of College Operations

October 30, 2025

Federal Response Taskforce Community Update

Dear PCC Community,

The federal government has been shut down since October 1 and still hasn’t passed a FY26 budget. We recognize that this creates uncertainty that can feel heavy during an already challenging time.

We want you to know that PCC’s programs, services, and financial aid are not impacted right now. Our people are focused and ready to work together for our students – if anything changes, we’ll act quickly and we’ll act together.

For now, PCC is doing what we do best: coming together, supporting our students, and leaning on our shared compassion and empathy to do what we can.

Because of the shutdown, federal benefits like SNAP (food assistance) are being disrupted. The Oregon Department of Human Services has announced that no new SNAP benefits will be distributed after October 31, which could create hardship for many students and families.

Our Student Wellbeing, Engagement and Belonging team has already reached out to students with guidance and support. Additionally, the President’s Leadership Council is personally contributing to an emergency food resources fund through the PCC Foundation to help students through the uncertainty. If you would like to join us, you can contribute.

Resources to share
Community resources

As a reminder, if any federal officials are seen on campus, call Public Safety immediately at 971-722-4444. You can review PCC’s response procedures here.  You can also request Community Response and Know Your Rights cards and training for your department or team, email publicsafety@pcc.edu.

Additionally, we are happy to meet with teams across the college to answer your questions and have conversations about navigating this challenging moment. As the community’s college, we take our duty to serve our students, support our colleagues, and care for the communities we belong to very seriously.

With care,

Sage, Vicky,  Josh, and Jennifer
Federal Response Taskforce