A retiring Idaho state senator will direct Oregon’s two-year college system.
The Oregon Community College Association named Abby Lee to the executive director’s post last week. Lee, of Fruitland, will relocate to Salem, Ore., and begin her new job on July 1.
Lee had spent 25 years at Treasure Valley Community College in Ontario, Ore., including 17 years as associate vice president of college and public relations.
She served 10 years in the state Senate, and was the GOP’s assistant majority leader, but did not file to run again in 2024.
Lee also recently received her doctorate in public policy and administration from Boise State University. In March, she successfully defended her dissertation: “Oregon Community College Trustee Survey: A look at community college board members’ initial motivation to run for elected office.”
“Each community college is an incredible example of how education changes lives and communities,” Lee said in a news release. “I’m excited to share these success stories to advocate for increased support and opportunities for all 17 Oregon community colleges.”
