Umpqua Community College is the regional center for higher education in Douglas County, Oregon, proudly offering an ever-expanding array of in-demand college degree, workforce development, and community learning programs.
Local Parole and Probation Officer Melanie McManus grew up in Green, OR. High school was coming to an end, and she wasn’t sure what she wanted to study. “UCC was the gateway to all of it. That’s where I discovered what I want to do.”
“Imagine looking at a view and seeing all the places where you have worked over the years. There are not many fields where you can do that,” said Isaac Cherry, Lone Rock Resources forestry management intern, and upcoming UCC graduate.
“We met on moving day,” Leilani said with a smile.” Although we didn’t hit it off right away, that quickly changed as we began taking classes and going on road trips together with the wrestling team.” The girls burst into laughter.
UCC sociology student Michael Tincher credits sociology professor Dr. Alex Olsen for helping him sharpen his focus and plan for his career in psychology or public health. Michael aims to transfer to UC Davis or the University of Washington.
Leesa Sterner, a graduate of UCC’s nursing program, tells her story. “From a very early age, I wanted to pursue nursing. Several relatives worked as nurses, which gave me early exposure to the occupation.”
Each year, the Oregon Community College Association nominates a limited number of students from community colleges across Oregon to participate in the All-Oregon Academic Team (AOAT) to highlight their outstanding academic achievements, leadership, and community service.