Chemeketa Community College and AHIVOY (Asociación Hispana de la Industria del Vino en Oregon y Comunidad) have been recognized nationally with the 2026 Excellence in Community-Engaged Partnerships Award from Campus Compact. The award honors collaborative partnerships between colleges and community organizations that demonstrate meaningful, measurable impact.

The Chemeketa–AHIVOY partnership focuses on expanding access to education and leadership development opportunities for vineyard stewards who are essential to Oregon’s thriving wine industry. Through culturally responsive programming, bilingual outreach, and shared leadership, the partnership works to remove barriers to education and create new pathways for economic mobility in the Mid-Willamette Valley.

“This recognition affirms the power of authentic partnership,” said Dr. Jessica Howard, President and CEO of Chemeketa Community College. “The work Chemeketa and AHIVOY are doing together is rooted in respect, shared leadership, and a commitment to expanding opportunity for vineyard stewards who are essential to our region’s economy. I am incredibly proud of this team and grateful to our community partners for showing what meaningful collaboration can achieve.”

AHIVOY, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering vineyard stewards and their families, has been instrumental in connecting community members with educational resources, workforce training, and leadership opportunities. Together, Chemeketa and AHIVOY have created programs that support skill development, strengthen workforce pipelines, and uplift the voices of those who work in Oregon’s vineyards.

The award from Campus Compact places Chemeketa among a select group of institutions nationwide recognized for excellence in community engagement. It underscores the college’s commitment to serving the diverse communities of Oregon through education that builds careers and strengthens communities.

Chemeketa Community College offers more than 90 career and technical education programs, transfer degrees, and community education opportunities designed to meet regional workforce needs. Partnerships like the one with AHIVOY exemplify the college’s mission to create equitable pathways to opportunity while supporting industries that are vital to the local economy.