OREGON CITY – In partnership with bond project management firm Wenaha Group, Clackamas Community College is hosting a first-of-its-kind bond fair to connect with minority- and women-owned trade businesses, as well as students in construction-related trades. 

This free event is open to local small businesses, students enrolled in trade programs, underrepresented and emerging subcontractors, and anyone interested in learning about bond construction programs.  

“We are especially proud that Wenaha Group is Native‑owned and committed to creating inclusive opportunities for all subcontractors,” Dale Kuykendall, project executive with Wenaha Group, said. “This bond fair is a gateway for emerging trade firms and students to access CCC’s bond program. Our goal is to build lasting partnerships that reflect the full diversity of our community.” 

Participants will learn about the college’s recent bond passage and related projects, as well as the public procurement process and resources for contractors. A panel discussion will include representatives from Tarkett Sports, construction company Swinerton Builders and Wenaha Group. There will be time to meet project representatives, network, and gain insight into future construction and partnership opportunities. 

The fair will be Monday, Dec. 15, 4-6:30 p.m., in the Gregory Forum on the college’s Oregon City campus, 19600 Molalla Ave. Parking is free, and this is a family-friendly event. 

Registration is recommended, but not required, at https://bit.ly/4pCyEiN. Questions? Call 971-255-3173 or email bobbyd@wenahagroup.com. For more information about Clackamas Community College’s bond projects, visit www.clackamas.edu/2024bond.  

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About Wenaha Group 

Wenaha Group is a Native American-owned owner’s representative and project management firm specializing in capital construction, planning, and development. The firm partners with public agencies, educational institutions, tribal governments, and private organizations to guide complex projects from concept through completion. 

OREGON CITY - Clackamas Community College now offers a one-year certificate and a two-year degree in the high-demand field of emergency management. 

These programs are designed to prepare students for leadership roles in emergency preparedness, response, mitigation and recovery. With instruction from professionals in the field, students will gain critical skills in communication, coordination, planning and decision-making during crises. 

Program overview 

Meeting a growing need 
As communities across the region and nation face increasing natural disasters, public health threats and complex emergencies, the need for trained emergency management professionals continues to grow. These new programs were developed in response to industry demand and community resilience priorities. 

“Communities rely on individuals who can organize, lead and respond effectively in critical moments,” Kari Nixon, emergency management program director, said. “These programs give students the tools they need to make a real impact when disaster strikes.” 

For details, visit: 

For questions, contact Kari Nixon at 503-594-0971 or karin.nixon@clackamas.edu 

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OREGON CITY – Clackamas Community College President Dr. Tim Cook was named a recipient of the 2025 Howard Cherry Award by the Oregon Community College Association. The honor, presented annually, recognizes exceptional leadership and advocacy on behalf of Oregon’s community colleges and students. 

Cook, who has served as president of Clackamas Community College since 2018, was honored at the Howard Cherry Awards Banquet on Nov. 6 in Hood River. The award acknowledges his decades-long commitment to equity, student success and community impact throughout his 30-plus years in higher education. 

“I am deeply honored to receive the Howard Cherry Award,” Cook said. “At Clackamas Community College, our students come first. Every day our faculty, staff and partners work to create opportunities for those who may not have had them otherwise. I share this recognition with them, and with the community that supports our work.” 

This summer, Cook gained statewide and national attention for his Running for Oregon Community College Students campaign, during which he ran more than 1,400 miles over 53 days to all 17 of Oregon’s community colleges. The campaign raised over $177,000 for student basic needs and brought visibility to the daily struggles many students face while pursuing their education. 

“In a time when too many challenges feel too big, President Cook has shown us what it looks like to step up and act. He put in the miles, literally, to make a difference. And in doing so, he’s reminding all of us of what leadership really means,” U.S. Sen. Ron Wyden wrote in a letter of support. 

“President Cook is not just an advocate for student success — he is a champion for equity, wellness and community connection,” Lisa Steenson, executive director of Clackamas Volunteers in Medicine, wrote in a letter of recommendation. “His leadership helps break down the barriers that often stand between individuals and their potential.” 

The Howard Cherry Award is named for the late Dr. Howard Cherry, a lifelong advocate for education and community service. Presented annually by the Oregon Community College Association, the award recognizes outstanding contributions to the state’s community colleges in three categories: citizen, board member and administrator. 

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