Chemeketa Community College is proud to announce that Board of Education member Ken Hector has been awarded the 2025 M. Dale Ensign Trustee Leadership Award by the Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT)—the organization’s highest national honor recognizing outstanding leadership among community college trustees across the United States.

Hector was selected from among five regional honorees nationwide and received the award during the ACCT Leadership Congress held last week in New Orleans, Louisiana. The recognition celebrates his exceptional leadership, advocacy, and enduring commitment to student success and equitable access to higher education.

A 12-year member of Chemeketa’s Board of Education, Hector has twice served as Chair and Vice Chair and played a pivotal role in advancing the college’s mission. His leadership was instrumental in the successful passage of Chemeketa’s $140 million bond measure, as well as in championing state and national legislative initiatives that expand access to applied baccalaureate degrees, improve infrastructure, and support workforce development.

Before joining the Chemeketa Board, Hector served 16 years as Mayor of Silverton and has dedicated decades to public service and community development. He has also served as a longtime member of the Oregon Community College Association (OCCA) Board, where he currently chairs the Legislative Committee, helping guide advocacy efforts for all 17 of Oregon’s community colleges.

The ACCT Awards program celebrates individuals and institutions that have made outstanding contributions to their colleges and communities. As the 2025 M. Dale Ensign Trustee Leadership Award recipient, Hector represents the highest standard of service and leadership among community college trustees nationwide.

Chemeketa Community College joins the Oregon Community College Association and the national ACCT community in congratulating Ken Hector for this remarkable and well-deserved honor.