Chemeketa Community College is proud to announce that Board of Education member Ken Hector has been named the 2025 Pacific Region Trustee Leadership Award recipient by the Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT). This prestigious award honors trustees who have made significant contributions to their colleges and the advancement of community college education nationwide.

Hector, who has served on Chemeketa’s Board of Education for 12 years, was recognized for his exceptional leadership, tireless advocacy, and deep commitment to expanding access to higher education. A former mayor of Silverton and lifelong public servant, Hector has been a driving force in legislative advocacy at both the state and national levels. His efforts have been instrumental in advancing applied baccalaureate degrees for Oregon’s community colleges, securing critical funding for infrastructure, and championing initiatives that support student success and workforce development.

“Ken Hector exemplifies what it means to be a public servant and a community college advocate,” said Chemeketa President and CEO Jessica Howard, Ph.D. “His leadership on our Board, his commitment to students, and his passionate work to expand educational opportunity in Oregon and beyond have left a lasting impact. We are honored to see his service recognized on the national stage.”

Hector has twice served as Chair and Vice-Chair of the Chemeketa Board of Education, played a pivotal role in the college’s successful $140 million bond campaign, and represented Chemeketa on state and national policy committees. His leadership extends beyond the college, with decades of community service including 14 years as mayor of Silverton, leadership roles with local nonprofits, and recognition with the Judy Schmidt Lifetime Achievement Award for public service.

As the Pacific Region winner, Hector will now advance as a finalist for the national Trustee Leadership Award, to be presented at the ACCT Leadership Congress in October in Seattle, Washington.