BMCC Student Leaders Recognized on Oregon Senate Floor

Community College Day highlights career technical programs and student advocacy

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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Two student leaders from Blue Mountain Community College, Associated Student Government President Katheryn Gomez and Vice President Katelyn Demianew, visited the Oregon State Capitol on February 18, 2026 to advocate for greater access to community colleges and career technical education programs. Gomez was recognized on the Senate floor, where she shared her story as a first-generation college student. The visit was part of Community College Day, which featured a showcase of BMCC's workforce development programs like the Meat Science Program.

Why it matters

Community colleges play a vital role in providing affordable higher education and career training opportunities, especially in rural areas of Oregon. Student advocacy helps raise awareness of the importance of community colleges and the need for continued investment and support.

The details

During their visit, Gomez and Demianew met with state legislators to discuss the benefits of community colleges and the importance of student access, workforce development, and community partnerships. Gomez, who is studying business administration, was welcomed to the Senate floor by Senator Todd Nash and given a courtesy to share her story as a first-generation college student working towards a bachelor's degree. BMCC also showcased its hands-on career technical education programs, like the Meat Science Program, to demonstrate the applied learning and industry preparation students receive.

  • On February 18, 2026, BMCC student leaders visited the Oregon State Capitol for Community College Day.
  • During the Senate session on February 18, 2026, Senator Todd Nash welcomed Katheryn Gomez to the Senate floor and requested a courtesy for her.

The players

Katheryn Gomez

The president of the Associated Student Government at Blue Mountain Community College, who is studying business administration and plans to graduate this year and pursue a bachelor's degree. As the daughter of immigrant parents, she hopes to give back to her family and help them achieve the American dream.

Katelyn Demianew

The vice president of the Associated Student Government at Blue Mountain Community College, who participated in legislative meetings and advocacy conversations throughout Community College Day.

Senator Todd Nash

A Republican state senator representing District 29, who welcomed Katheryn Gomez to the Senate floor and requested a courtesy for her.

Blue Mountain Community College

A community college in Oregon that offers career technical education programs and advocates for greater access to higher education.

Jordan Monaco

The director of College Relations at Blue Mountain Community College, who emphasized the essential role community colleges play in Oregon's workforce and local economies.

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What they’re saying

“It was an incredible honor to represent BMCC and our students at the Capitol. Community college has opened doors for me, and I'm proud to share that story.”

— Katheryn Gomez, Associated Student Government President (eastoregonian.com)

“Seeing our students recognized on the Senate floor while also showcasing our career technical programs reflects the full scope of what community colleges provide — opportunity, leadership development and direct pathways to careers.”

— Jordan Monaco, Director of College Relations (eastoregonian.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights the important role community colleges play in providing affordable higher education and career training opportunities, especially in rural areas. Student advocacy helps raise awareness of the value of community colleges and the need for continued investment and support.