County College Class Completes Six-Month Program
The 2025 County College class recently celebrated completing the six-month program offered by the Association of Oregon Counties (AOC), designed to equip new county leaders with training on governance, roles, and responsibilities. The curriculum featured expert-led sessions on topics including county finance, health and human services, veterans affairs, public safety, natural resources, transportation, and leadership development.
Participants also gained valuable hands-on experience through visits to the WAVE Lab at Oregon State University, the Oregon State Hospital Museum, the Oregon Department of Emergency Management, and Marion County Public Works.
During the final session, county commissioners, judges, and chairs shared their personal reasons for running for office. While their priorities varied — from tackling homelessness to expanding mental health services, they shared a common goal — to make a positive impact on their communities.
As the program wrapped up on the last day, participants reflected on key takeaways, including a deeper understanding of the historical relationship between state and county governments and the vast services counties provide. Many remarked that while they may not have all the answers, they’ve gained the knowledge and resources to find them.
Although the program’s primary focus is providing a comprehensive overview of county governance, the class agreed that one of the most valuable outcomes was the sense of connection and support developed among peers. The camaraderie will serve as a lasting network, offering ongoing support as they continue their public service.
Executive Director Gina Nikkel commended the participants’ dedication to learning and serving their communities. “You are the future of Oregon. Our counties are in good hands with you at the helm, and I look forward to seeing the positive changes you’ll continue to bring to your communities.”
In November, the County College class will come together again for a formal graduation ceremony as part of the AOC Annual Conference Opening General Session at the Graduate Eugene.
Congratulations to the 2025 County College Class!
- Baker County Commissioner Michelle Kaseberg
- Benton County Administrative Manager Maura Kwiatkowski
- Benton County Commissioner Gabe Shepherd
- Clackamas County Chair Craig Roberts
- Coos County Commissioner Drew Farmer
- Crook County County Manager Will Van Vactor
- Crook County Commissioner Susan Hermreck
- Curry County Commissioner Patrick Hollinger
- Gilliam County Judge Cris Patnode
- Gilliam County Commissioner Grant Wilkins
- Grant County Commissioner Mitch Wilson
- Harney County Commissioner Rob Frank
- Harney County Executive Assistant to the County Court Holly York
- Hood River County Public Works Director Cori Wiessner
- Hood River County County Administrator Allison Williams
- Jefferson County Commissioner Seth Taylor
- Josephine County Commissioner Chris Barnett
- Klamath County Commissioner Andrew Nichols
- Lincoln County Commissioner Walter Chuck
- Morrow County County Administrator Matthew Jensen
- Morrow County County Commissioner Gus Peterson
- Morrow County Executive Assistant Valerie Ballard
- OSU Extension Service Associate Vice Provost for Partnerships Jeff Sherman-Duncan
- OSU Extension Service Administrative Office Manager Jen Melo
- OSU Extension Service Extension External Relations Director Heidi Luquette
- OSU Extension Service Regional Director Jamie Davis
- Tillamook County Commissioner Paul Fournier
- Union County Commissioner Jake Seavert
- Wallowa County Commissioner Lisa Collier
- Wasco County Commissioner Jeff Justesen
- Washington County Commissioner Jason Snider
- Yamhill County Commissioner Bubba King
- Yamhill County Treasurer Paulette Alexandria
Contributed by: Erin Good | Communications Coordinator