Hawk Highlights 2025

HAWK HIGHLIGHTS 2025

INSIDE Unstoppable Practical Learning. Career Ready.

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Transforming UCC

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Celebrating Families

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Transforming Lives

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Celebrating Giving

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From the President

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From the Umpqua Community College Foundation CEO As I look back on this past year, I am filled with deep gratitude—for you, our donors, partners, alumni, and friends who continue to believe so strongly in the mission of UCC. Every scholarship awarded, every program expanded, and every student who stepped confidently into their future was made possible because you chose to invest in hope, opportunity, and the power of education.

This year reminded us that transformation doesn’t happen alone—it happens through community. It happens when a friend of the college endows a scholarship in honor of a loved one, when local businesses step forward to strengthen our workforce, when alumni return to uplift the next generation, and when neighbors and friends gather at events to champion our students with genuine heart and conviction.

Our students continue to inspire us with their resilience. Many are balancing work, raising families, or returning to school after years away. They come from every corner of our region with a shared dream of creating a better life—and because of your generosity, they are doing just that.

We also celebrated milestones that reflect the strength of this community: new partnerships that broaden access, programs responding to critical needs, and stories that remind us why this work matters. Through every challenge and triumph, you have stood with us.

Thank you for your time, your resources, your advocacy, and your belief in UCC. Your commitment fuels our momentum and shapes the legacy we are building together.

Jessica Paugh UCC Foundation CEO

UNSTOPPABLE From the UCC Foundation Board President

Success is more than a diploma—it’s about equipping students with tools, mentors, and financial support. Over the past year, we’ve seen remarkable growth, with a 25% increase in student enrollment. This reflects not just rising demand but also our unwavering commitment to removing barriers to quality education.

Through scholarships, critical support programs, community partnerships, and volunteers, we’ve empowered more students than ever to rise above challenges and launch into new careers, filling jobs in our local community.

Our students don’t just graduate—they excel and redefine what’s possible.

This year, take a look at the stories of our students and community.

Together, we are unstoppable.

Aden Bliss UCC Foundation Board President 2025 Hawk Highlights | 3

A recent UCC graduate, Conner Semrau, works at 7robotics on the development floor on an engineering project.

Electrical Systems • Computer Programming • Mechanics

MECHATRONICS For students studying mechatronics at UCC, the road from classroom to career is clearer than ever—thanks in part to innovative companies like 7robotics. This rapidly growing automation firm specializes in industrial robotics integration and has become a launchpad for UCC graduates who are now shaping the future of smart manufacturing.

Camren May, a UCC graduate and current Automation Developer at 7robotics, plays a key role in designing automation systems for industrial customers.

“I coordinate with clients to define their automation goals, determine costs, and write the proposals,” he explained. “We work mostly in the wood products sector, but the challenges are very real—heavy lifting, dangerous tasks, repetitive motion. In one case, two operators were lifting 400-pound doors all day. We brought in a robot to handle the physical labor, allowing the workers to shift into supervisory roles that use their critical thinking instead.”

May’s journey began in high school, where he earned a drafting certificate through a dual-credit partnership between UCC and Roseburg High School. That early exposure gave him a head start in a technical field and college credit before he even stepped foot on campus.

He chose to attend UCC full-time, supported by the Oregon National Guard, rather than begin immediately at a four-year university. “From a cost perspective, it just made sense,” he said. “I could take the same foundational classes, gain work experience, and later transfer to Oregon State University through UCC’s degree partnership program.”

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Since then, May’s role has taken him across more than 30 U.S. states and to three different countries. “It’s exciting work,” he said. “I get to travel, solve complex problems, and build solutions that actually help people.”

Another UCC alum and Roseburg native making an impact at 7robotics is Zach Alliman, the company’s Technical Director. Alliman originally thought he’d design cars.

But like May, it was during his time at UCC where he discovered his true passion. “I loved working on cars in high school, but once I started engineering courses, I realized I was more interested in system design than automotive work specifically,” he said.

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Small class sizes helped me form real working relationships with instructors.

That shaped how I approached both engineering and teamwork.

He appreciated UCC’s small class sizes and close-knit learning environment.

“At UCC, you develop real relationships with your instructors. It’s not just about getting a grade—it feels more like working with a mentor or a boss. That helped me develop a more professional approach to learning and problem-solving."

Alliman spent 15 years at Convey Keystone before helping launch 7robotics, which spun off from that parent company.

PRACTICAL LEARNING. CAREER READY. “We were experimenting with robotics early on, not knowing exactly where it would lead,” he recalled. “But it was challenging and exciting—different from typical automation. Robots have a wider range of motion and capability, and the engineering behind them requires a different level of precision and creativity.”

Inside UCC Mechatronics

Now leading the engineering team at 7robotics, Alliman works on everything from system layout and robot programming to time studies and mechanical design.

“We’re designing in environments that are often dirty, loud, and physically demanding—like sawmills or plywood plants,” he said. “Our job is to develop robotic solutions that make these workplaces safer and more efficient.”

Both alumni emphasize how UCC’s mechatronics program aligns with the real-world skills companies like 7robotics need. “Mechatronics is essentially the combination of mechanical systems, electronics, and software,” said Alliman. “It’s about using electrical signals to control mechanical action. Robotics is a specialty within that, and UCC is doing a great job preparing students with the fundamentals.”

Both May and Alliman work in a small group along with Conner Semrau, who is just starting out in the field as he completed the UCC Mechatronic's program last year.

For students considering a similar career, both May and Alliman offer the same advice: stay curious and explore as much as possible. “Take things apart. Put them back together. Go on tours, ask questions, and get your hands dirty,” said May. “Every time you interact with real systems, you learn more about what type of engineering fits you.”

Alliman agrees. “Pay attention to the small things in class. Sometimes the smallest moment—a lab project or a concept that clicks—can point you toward a career you’ll love.”

7robotics employee Britain Corbett shows how the newly designed manufacturing equipment is tested before being shipped to a client.

Students in UCC’s mechatronics program learn to work with Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs)—the backbone of industrial automation. PLCs receive signals from sensors, process them based on programmed logic, and control outputs to operate machinery. These skills are essential in nearly every modern manufacturing environment.

Students put their newly acquired skills into action and gain real-world experience. Here, they are shown providing support for another UCC academic program as they troubleshoot damaged wiring for wine-making equipment.

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Fire Science From Serving Our Country to Serving His Community Chris Roark’s path to becoming a paid firefighter with Central Douglas Fire and Rescue wasn’t just about changing careers—it was about finding a sense of structure after serving ten years in the Marine Corps.

“When you get out of the military, you kind of lose that sense of brotherhood,” Chris reflected. “That’s what I was searching for when I came back, and I found it in firefighting.”

Chris Roark UCC Fire Science Student

Students in the UCC Fire Science program are provided with advanced simulations to develop their skills. Realistic smoke, ladders, and mannequins allowed them to practice life-saving victim rescues, creating experiences that can't be replicated in a classroom.

Chris’ journey began as a volunteer firefighter. While he appreciated the experience, he wanted more hands-on involvement and a faster-paced learning environment. This drive led him to join the fire department’s student program, where he began responding to calls and working alongside paid firefighters. In addition to the practical experience, Chris pursued an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) certification, a requirement for all Oregon firefighters.

“Firefighting in Oregon isn’t just about putting out fires; you need an EMS background,” he explained. “Getting my EMT license was the first big step toward my goal.”

Chris also recognized the value of education in advancing his career. While fire science wasn’t required for an entry-level position, he knew it would provide baseline knowledge of the profession, and open doors for promotions. He enrolled in fire science courses, which provided a deeper understanding and hands-on learning to help him understand the role of a firefighter.

Balancing these commitments was no small feat. Chris worked full-time at Roseburg Forest Products, helped care for his family of five, and managed a 10-acre ranch with cows, horses, and chickens. Despite his packed schedule, he dedicated three to five days each month to station work, studied full-time, and completed his fire science coursework.

By spring 2025, Chris had earned three associate degrees—a testament to his relentless determination. “It was a lot to juggle, but I kept my eyes on the prize,” he said. "Every day, I get to do something meaningful. It’s a career where you’re constantly learning, growing, and making a difference.

I couldn’t ask for more.”

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This training was held in a building donated by Roseburg Public Schools and guided by local industry professionals.

PRACTICAL LEARNING. CAREER READY.

UCC Graduate Embarks on Career in Frigid Antarctica UCC graduate Daniel Isenberger embarked on a career trek that took him to the bottom of the world, to Antarctica.

Isenberger spent six months braving frigid temperatures and hurricane-force winds to serve as operator of the only wastewater treatment facility at McMurdo Station, an American research center in southern Antarctica.

The station was established in 1956 and houses only a couple hundred people during the winter.

Isenberger graduated from UCC’s water quality program, which provided the background and hands-on experience necessary for the job.

Then, just out of college, Isenberger was hired by the National Science Foundation to work at the Antarctic facility. He ended up running it all on his own when his supervisor had to make an abrupt departure just three weeks into his tenure. Fortunately, he was able to find a remote mentor through the Water Environment Foundation mentoring program, who helped walk him through the processes required to keep the facility up and running.

It was very cold and dark for much of the time I was there,” Isenberger said. “When it gets really windy, your eyeballs will actually freeze, so you have to wear goggles."

“Of the six months I was there, it was only light for one of those months.” He said the facility operations were maintained in line with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency standards and that with the mentorship and his education and experience from UCC, he was successfully able to keep the facility up and running for the six-month stint.

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“I’m really grateful for the hands-on training I received from UCC and being able to work at real facilities, like the one in Sutherlin I worked at while at UCC, was crucial to my understanding of the process.”

He also learned about the job opportunity through another UCC student.

“I was on campus and crossed paths with a guy wearing a McMurdo Station shirt,” he recalled. “I turned around and asked if he had been there, and we talked about it for a bit. That conversation encouraged me to pursue the position.”

Isenberger grew up interested in engineering, and his father encouraged him to pursue wastewater treatment operations since there were similarities in the career paths and many job opportunities.

After departing Antarctica, Isenberger spent some time consulting on water treatment in Haiti, where he crossed paths with another UCC water quality graduate in the same line of work.

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From Resume to Role— Inspiring the Next Generation Ilias Corbin FCC Furniture Intern and UCC Alum

"I wanted to give myself more opportunity to grow my career in human resources," said Ilias Corbin, UCC transfer student and HR Assistant at FCC When Ilias attended UCC, he was working at a local restaurant but knew he wanted more—more opportunity, more growth, and a career in human resources.

Determined to take the next step, he suited up and attended UCC’s career day, handing his resume to every employer who would accept it. That persistence paid off when Andrea, FCC’s HR recruiter, noticed him and offered him a position as her assistant.

"I wanted to give myself more opportunity to grow my career in human resources," said Ilias Corbin, UCC transfer student and HR Assistant at FCC. 8 | 2025 Hawk Highlights

At FCC, a company that manufactures furniture for fast food chains like In-N-Out, Chick-fil-A, Burger King, and Popeye’s, Ilias quickly found ways to make an impact. One of his key projects was developing a virtual 3D tour of FCC’s manufacturing plant, designed to be experienced on a VR headset.

This year, he shared that tour as an exhibitor at UCC’s career day. “It’s a good piece of media to show clients that we do all our manufacturing

in-house, and to get potential employees interested in the different kinds of manufacturing we do,” he explained.

Ilias also shares his experiences with other students at UCC, highlighting the opportunities he’s had to learn and grow on the job. “I love UCC because it’s a place where people can grow to be better,” he said, reflecting on how his work has helped him develop both professionally and personally.

Part of Ilias’s FCC Furniture VR Tour project, offering a virtual look inside the factory.

PRACTICAL LEARNING. CAREER READY.

From UCC to North River UCC and North River’s family-oriented culture helps build careers while keeping roots in Roseburg.

For Chris Roberts, UCC alum and North River Boats Dealer Sales Rep, success isn’t just about a career—it’s about finding a place where skills, passion, and community come together.

After graduating from high school in 2001, he joined the Douglas County Sheriff’s Department in the Marine Patrol Division. "That's where the love for boats started," he recalled.

Recognizing the value of further education, Chris enrolled at UCC in 2003, pursuing the Police Reserve Academy program and a criminal justice degree.

He graduated in 2005 and soon after returned to the world of boats—this time as part of North River Boats, a company deeply rooted in the community.

"It's a very tight-knit community here in Roseburg and I feel that UCC showcases that quite well in noticing what jobs are needed in the community and having the programs to help people get those jobs."

Chris’ career at North River Boats has been diverse. He began in carpet and upholstery, moved into rigging, worked in quality control, and then expanded into paint and body work.

At North River Boats, from marketing positions to welding for the water, UCC graduates turn their skills into careers in the community.

His journey eventually led him to Clackamas, Oregon, where he helped run a dealership, Clackamas Marine, before transitioning to his current role in dealer support. Today, Chris manages custom orders, ensuring every boat is built correctly and delivered to dealers across the region.

What drew Chris to North River mirrors what drew him to UCC: a sense of community and family.

"UCC was involved in the community, and it's kind of family-oriented—just like North River," he said. From the college’s early days to its current hundred-acre campus, and from a small white barn to a facility producing over 300 boats a year, Chris has witnessed growth while feeling at home every step of the way.

"Both UCC and North River coincide quite well in the Douglas County area," he noted, highlighting the connection between education, opportunity, and community support.

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TRANSFORMING UCC UCC Welcome Center & Medical Careers Hub Umpqua Community College is building a new front door for the campus and hub for medical training.

A welcoming service-focused space will connect students to opportunities for their future and meet the healthcare needs of Douglas County.

This project will address the region’s shortage of trained healthcare professionals and create pathways to living-wage careers.

The Welcome Center & Medical Careers Hub will: • Expand medical training capacity • Strengthen local healthcare systems • Serve as UCC’s front door to campus

Student Housing Revitalizes Downtown Since 2023, UCC has been investing in downtown Roseburg by redeveloping vacant historic buildings into affordable practical housing for students. This year, two remodels have been completed, creating safe, livable spaces that connect students to both education and community.

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Be a part of the transformation— umpqua.edu/construction

Advanced Manufacturing & Forestry Hub UCC is renovating an existing building to create an interdisciplinary hub for advanced manufacturing, which will bring together high-demand programs in mechatronics, computer science, forestry, and engineering.

UCC Track Transformation UCC is building a track and field complex to serve UCC athletes, community stakeholders, and host local, regional, and national events.

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EDUCATING FAMILIES Creating Futures

KK Miele, UCC Alum

For KK Miele, art has always been personal—but showing it publicly was intimidating. When two of her pieces were featured in UCC’s 2025 Student Art Show, she was both nervous and proud. That pride grew when UCC President Dr. Rachel Pokrandt purchased one of her works. “It felt good to have someone appreciate the vision and work I put into it,” KK said.

KK said her first art class at UCC made a lasting impact. “My instructor was super supportive. We are taught to develop not only technique, but also how we can build on these basics in our professional life.”

UCC is a family tradition for the Mieles. Her mother was a Dental Program student, her sister became a paralegal, and her brother will begin classes this fall at UCC. Inspired by those successes, KK is preparing to graduate and begin her career as a graphic artist. She already runs KK Miele Arts on Etsy, designing logos and custom projects for local businesses, and hopes to grow it into a sustainable career. “I just want to get into the field and help others tell their story visually.”

When KK's sister, Sydney Miele entered UCC’s Paralegal program, she wasn’t sure which legal path to pursue. With her advisor’s help, she connected to a law office that gave her a start as a legal assistant.

“That’s a benefit of UCC—the advisors and staff create opportunities that might not exist at a larger school,” she said.

Balancing full-time work and studies, Sydney relied on UCC’s online program to complete her degree. She graduated in 2020 with her Associate of Applied Arts in Paralegal Studies and now works at a law firm in Dallas. Her diploma sits proudly on her desk as a daily reminder: “I feel like I worked so hard for this, and I want everyone to see! I wouldn’t be here without it.”

Her time at UCC gave her not only a degree but also the confidence and experience to build a long-term career in the legal field.

Sydney Miele, UCC Alum

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EDUCATING FAMILIES

From Patients to Providers, A Family Finds Their Path to Nursing When you’re a patient in the hospital, there are days when your strength fades and it feels easier to give up.

Often, it’s a nurse who helps you find hope again. The Newell and Robbins family knows this experience well.

All four siblings spent extended time in hospitals and saw firsthand the difference a compassionate nurse can make. “We had a front-row seat to the impact of good nursing. When someone is sick, doctors and nurses become more than just appointments; they become a vital part of the healing process. That’s what led us to nursing,” explained Tiffanie Robbins.

Tiffanie graduated in 2025 with her associate degree in nursing and is now completing her residency in the Mercy Progressive Care Unit. She plans to pursue her Bachelor of Science in Nursing through Oregon Health and Science University (OHSU).

“My long-term goal is to become a nurse practitioner through UCC’s new bridge program. As soon as you’re accepted at UCC, you’re also accepted at OHSU to continue your bachelor’s degree,” said Tiffanie Robbins.

Her daughter, Lauren Robbins, also chose a career in medicine. After graduating from North Douglas High School last year, she took advantage of its dual enrollment program, earning college credit at UCC and a dental assisting certificate. Today, she works in the dental office at Aviva Health.

Tiffanie’s brother, Kyle Newell, graduated alongside his sister and niece with his associate degree and will enter the nursing program this fall. Nursing had always been his plan, but a New Year’s Eve accident in 2024 put that plan at risk. A firework exploded in his hand, fracturing multiple bones and costing him two fingers.

During recovery, Kyle worried he might not be able to continue, but a nurse motivated him with the words, “Roll out of bed and go straight to your first class.”

Inspired by her encouragement, he found the strength to persevere and completed all his courses.

The Newell/Robbins family’s personal experience with nurses shaped their future. Kyle reflected, “We want to be the kind of nurse who keeps patients motivated. A nurse’s presence can lift someone’s spirits, and that can change their entire outcome. We want to be that positive presence.”

For more information on the UCC Nursing program or the bachelor’s degree program offered through the OHSU partnership visit umpqua.edu/rn.

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WELDING FOR MY SON

Resilience Through Education When Gabriella Spencer moved to Roseburg, she never dreamed she would have her GED, let alone be in a two-year welding program.

“I left a bad situation in Ohio, and I came here with nothing.

I was in a homeless shelter with my son, who was just entering first grade. He was still in that place where he didn’t want to go to school. He wanted to stay at home with Mommy all day and play, and I'm trying to explain the importance of education. While I'm doing this, I'm thinking, I've never even gotten my GED.” It was when she was taking her son to school that she noticed the Woolley Center. “I enrolled for classes and received a GED in just one term. The entire time I was there, the staff kept asking what I wanted to do next. I thought my goal was complete and I never thought I could afford to do more.”

Gabbi always loved building and wanted to learn how to weld, but she didn’t think she could afford the tuition costs while being a single mom trying to move out of the shelter.

“I applied for as many scholarships and grants as I could. So right after I was done getting my GED, they signed me up for the welding coursework for the very next term.”

Gabbi felt some anxiety going back to school after being away for so long, but she soon began to feel at home in the welding shop with support from her instructors. “If I don't understand, they will come up with a different way to explain it. They'll watch me weld, or they will weld and let me watch them. I don’t know if I would get the same one-on-one attention in a bigger program.”

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While she is looking forward to the future, she will miss the classmates who are graduating this year.

“It’s going to be sad to see the second-year students leave this year. We are kind of a close-knit team.

I can rely on their advice."

Gabriella explained that she wouldn’t be in the position she is in today without the help of the Woolley Center and the faculty and staff of UCC. “When I came here, I had nothing and a small child.

I never want to be in that situation again. Everything I’m doing now is for my son—to show him that everyone can go to school and finish. I did it, and you can too.”

TRANSFORMING LIVES

First-Grade Teacher’s First Step to the Classroom was UCC As the first person in her family to graduate from college, Mykenzie Brennan wasn’t sure what to expect when she started at UCC.

One Student's Success Becomes Many Families' Strength Raised in poverty and familiar with the challenges facing many in her community, UCC Alum, Melinda Broadsword, set a goal early in life: to ensure her children would not face the same hardships she endured. Today, she channels that determination into her work as a family coach with the Oregon Department of Human Services in Roseburg, Oregon.

“My favorite thing about my job is being able to help families get out of a tough situation and get back on their feet,” Melinda said. “I love the success stories of this is where you started and this is where you are now.”

Her passion for helping others is deeply personal. Drawing on her own experiences, she reassures families that it is okay to ask for help— and that support is available. Her own journey of receiving support at UCC helped shape this commitment.

“Originally, I didn’t even know that I wanted to be a teacher. My advisors encouraged me to grow, and UCC was the safe space I needed. I was able to complete my core curriculum and explore other classes that eventually led me to teaching.”

A psychology class sparked her interest in how children learn, guiding her toward education as a career path. She completed her groundwork at UCC before transferring to Southern Oregon University. “My advisors at UCC and Southern worked together to coordinate a curriculum plan for me. It was all pretty seamless.”

Mykenzie completed her student teaching at Fullerton VI Elementary School, where she was eventually offered a teaching position.

“Teaching brings me joy because the students come from all different experiences. I leave an impact because I am an adult they feel comfortable with and can come to for help. These kids face real-world issues even at a young age, so creating a safe space for them is incredibly important.”

“I am so thankful for the accessibility services offered at UCC. They helped me understand my learning style, and I would not be where I'm at today if it wasn't for UCC." Through her work, Melinda transforms her personal challenges into a source of guidance and hope, showing that one person’s empowerment can ripple outward to strengthen entire families.

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Foundation Success

Aden Bliss President

Alex Palm

Vice President

Elin Miller Secretary

TOTAL FOUNDATION ASSETS

Derek Simmons

$23.4M

Past President

TOTAL CONTRIBUTIONS THIS YEAR: $5.7M

ENDOWMENT GROWTH

Foundation Board

9.1%

TOTAL NUMBER OF DONORS: 539

283 FIRST-TIME DONORS 2025 LEGACY BALL GALA

DONATIONS RAISED: $524,000 $646,152 in scholarships awarded • 30% provided to first-gen students • 39 academic areas of study supported • 398 total scholarships

David Adamson Abby Bachman Jeff Ball Chelsea Buckbee Renee Coen Brent Eichman Steve Feldkamp Garrett Hanna Elizabeth Hill Neil Hummel Danny Lang Keith Longie Ali McAuley Tom Nelson Joe Newton Lee Patterson Alanson Randol Dale Ritter Derek Simmons David Vickery Ex-Officio Steve Loosley Rachel Pokrandt Director Emeritus Ronnie Bruce Lynn Engle Scott Henry Tom Keel Mo Nichols

“I am blessed to have been awarded these scholarships because I would not be able to attend school without them. This will help stretch out my resources that I have saved up and this keeps me from having to take out loans.”

— Ellison Huffman, Scholarship Recipient

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Legacy Ball 2025

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ROOTED IN SERVICE

The Shared Legacy of Jerry and Ronnie Bruce

In Roseburg, and across Douglas County, the names Jerry and Ronnie Bruce carry a quiet but powerful legacy — one built not on self-promotion, but on a shared, lifelong commitment to strengthening their community. Together, they shaped the lives of countless families through decades of support for Umpqua Community College and a wide range of local organizations.

Ronnie, originally from Anoka, Minnesota, and Jerry, originally from Woodland, Washington, were raised in Eugene before marrying in their early twenties. As partners in every sense, they built a successful life rooted in service. Before they had financial means, they gave time, energy, and thought — a habit that became a lifelong philosophy. Jerry, whose career spanned multiple enterprises in the timber and auto industries, had a rare ability to envision a solution to a perceived need and bring people together around that vision, a trait that led Kenneth Ford to rely on him as a trusted “front man.” Ronnie complemented him with steady determination and patience. Both believed deeply in investing in people and in the power of a small community to rally for its own future.

Jerry and Ronnie Bruce

“They were just very community-minded,” recalled a close friend.

“They didn’t give for recognition — they gave because they believed in building something better for everyone.”

Their connection to UCC began decades ago, rooted in a shared interest in elevating the nursing program.

Jerry first learned about it through his work with The Ford Family Foundation, and the couple’s support grew as they became more invested in UCC’s role in the region. After Jerry’s passing, Ronnie remained firmly committed to carrying forward what they had envisioned together — including a major gift that supported the Health, Nursing & Science Center. True to their humility, she declined naming recognition, choosing instead to honor another community leader and good friend, Bonnie Ford.

Beyond UCC, Jerry and Ronnie played key roles in bringing to life cornerstone projects throughout the region.

They helped develop the Family Development Center, the Community Cancer Center, the Boys & Girls Club, expansions at the YMCA, the current Phoenix School campus, and the Roseburg Public Library. They championed the arts, supported community traditions like the Festival of Trees and the Rotary Duck Race, and poured countless hours into efforts that required not just money, but people who shared their can-do attitude. Jerry served on many boards, including The Ford Family Foundation and Mercy, while Ronnie served on the boards of Phoenix School, Riverside School, and the UCC Foundation, and volunteered on the City of Roseburg Planning Commission, with SMART and the Family Development Center.

Those who knew them describe the Bruces as loyal, humble, determined, thoughtful, and deeply aligned. Jerry was often the one out front, while Ronnie, a quieter but equally strong presence, stepped forward in her own way after his passing — continuing their shared work with the same practical, “if not us, then who?” spirit.

They embraced change, welcomed new ideas and new people, and believed that community projects thrive when individuals from all walks of life put their shoulders to the wheel.

Their example continues to guide future generations of giving at UCC and throughout Douglas County. The Bruce legacy is a reminder that true community impact often comes from steady, unassuming leadership — and from two people who believed that if something needed doing, they had a responsibility to help make it happen.

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2025 President Message When I came to UCC almost 5 years ago, I had many dreams for our community college and so many of them are coming true: • Record enrollment growth • Incredible community support • Revitalization of our campus facilities • Partnerships across private and public sectors that take our work to the next level I am so proud of our progress, and it is only possible because of the generosity of supporters like you. Every single win we have is a shared win. Thank you for your belief in, and passion for, our important little college.

We are continuing to focus all of our time and resources on what matters, with a new strategic ‘doing’ plan which we will launch in January 2026 that will include exciting new programs and partnerships.

UCC has had another year of great triumphs, and we have also weathered a devastating tragedy.

We lost two Riverhawks in a senseless accident in the spring when a drunk driver hit our softball team bus. We will forever miss you Jamie and Kiley. When you experience a life-changing event like this you are changed forever, physically and emotionally and we are beyond proud of how our Riverhawks are moving through the world with courage and grace, and back in competition on the field.

Institutions like UCC are like living organisms. They have great triumphs, and they have great tragedies. They have times of growth and times of reflection. But one thing that is constant is that, like people, UCC needs people. We need all of our donors and community supporters to show all of our students how much you believe in them.

We need you to show how much you believe in our work and direction.

You have the best community college in the west right on your doorstep and together we can do anything!

Go Hawks, Dr. Rachel Pokrandt UCC President

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