OREGON CITY - Clackamas Community College has hired its new Foundation executive director. Debra Mason will begin her new role effective July 1.

Mason brings experience in fundraising, donor and board relations, community outreach, and strategic and operational planning. Her previous work includes working as the executive director, director of operations and director of nutrition at Clackamas Service Center, which is a nonprofit that serves those in need of food and other resources. During her tenure at Clackamas Service Center, Mason increased revenue by more than 300% in six years as well as developed and executed a campaign to open a second location.

She has also taught at Mt. Hood Community College as a nutrition instructor and as an anatomy and physiology instructor.

"As a community college instructor, I have seen the dedication of community college students," Mason said. "Most of them are working and a lot of them have children, but they are dedicated to following their path."

She holds a master of science in nutritional biology from the University of California, Davis, and a bachelor of science in chemistry from Sonoma State University. She started her higher education journey at Santa Barbara City College.

The CCC Foundation executive director is responsible for achieving the organization's mission and financial objectives and overseeing the administration of its strategic planning and operations. The Foundation's mission is to build financial and public support for the community through fundraising that supports the college and its students as well as build public and business awareness of the college and how it benefits the community.

Whether students are pursuing a degree, seeking technical and career training to be more competitive in the workforce, or returning for continued and lifelong learning, the CCC Foundation provides support both inside and outside the classroom, including hundreds of scholarships, over $737,000 in 2020-21, to reduce the financial burdens for college students.

"Clackamas Community College is fortunate to have Debra Mason as its new Foundation executive director. She has a deep understanding of the Clackamas County community and strong connections with partners across our district. She also understands our mission of providing affordable, accessible and flexible education to the community," CCC President Tim Cook said.

For more information about the CCC Foundation, visit give.clackamas.edu.