Chemeketa will launch the inaugural Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) degree program this fall 2023, and to mark this momentous occasion, the College hosted a welcome event for the first cohort. The event brought together students, faculty, and staff for an introductory and informative gathering in August.

The event was an engaging affair that allowed Chemeketa BAS degree students to meet one another and get a glimpse of what to expect in their program. President Jessica Howard, Dean Tim Ray, and Instructor Margarie Yaroslaki welcomed the students with enthusiasm, emphasizing the significance of this new program. Students connected with fellow classmates while engaging in discussions with faculty and staff and enjoyed refreshments.

“When Chemeketa Community College began planning this degree, we went to area employers and asked what they needed,” Yaroslaski said. “They asked us to help them take their successful employees who graduated with CTE degrees and prepare them for the next level of leadership. We designed this program with that advice in mind and at the orientation, were deeply gratified to see our first cohort so clearly demonstrate that we are on the right track. We are excited to launch this program with such a great group of working adults who are ready to make even bigger contributions.”

“Introducing a new Bachelor of Applied Science degree is a significant step towards empowering our students and strengthening our community,” President Howard said. “This degree isn't just about educational and professional advancement and meeting the evolving needs of our workforce. It’s also about Chemeketa’s commitment to providing education that will help our students enter successful careers and contribute to the prosperity of our community."

Chemeketa’s Fall 2023 term starts Sept. 25. To learn more about Chemeketa’s new bachelor’s degree, visit: go.chemeketa.edu/BASLeadershipManagement.  Or, for information about Chemeketa’s career and technical education degrees and certificates or transfer degrees, visit go.chemeketa.edu/pathways.