Join OIT in Salem

OIT will be at the Capitol Thursday, Feb. 8, 2007. This will be an opportunity for legislators to learn more about our dynamic programs and outstanding graduates. We will have displays in the Galleria and are planning a public reception from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m.

OIT's Legislative priorities this session are the Oregon Center for Health Professions, a healthcare policy package, the Oregon Renewable Energy Center and maintaining the Higher Education budget as presented by Governor Kulongoski. You may view the Governor’s budget here. The Oregon University System Fact Sheet on the budget is available here.

Our focus will be two initiatives that will help shape Oregon’s future: the Oregon Center for Health Professions and the Oregon Renewable Energy Center. OIT is preparing to help close the gap between the industry need for more allied health professionals through the Center for Health Professions, while renewable energy will ensure Oregon’s sustainability.

The public is encouraged to stop by the Galleria and meet some of the wonderful people engaged in study, teaching and service through OIT. If you have friends or relatives in the Salem area, encourage them to stop by.

If you would like to attend the event, ASOIT is sponsoring a bus for students to travel that day. Call ASOIT at 885.1847.

Revering the Reverend

I heard a student jokingly say that the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday is wasted because it comes so early in the term. Since the holiday was last week, I just wanted to mention how important Dr. King’s work was and how he continues to be a contemporary role model.

The Klamath Falls community holds an annual celebration that is powerful and moving. I’ve attend several time, and the Congressional Church is always filled to standing room only.

Millie Craddock, a former member of the OIT who retired a few years ago, told a local news station this week that Dr. King’s legacy is not about color, race or social standing. He was dedicated to bringing people together to better themselves and the nation.

I’d like to share a few of my favorite quotes from Dr. King:

“Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.”

“The good neighbor looks beyond the external accidents and discerns those inner qualities that make all men human and, therefore, brothers.”

“We must learn to live together as brothers or perish together as fools.”

“The hope of a secure and livable world lies with disciplined nonconformists who are dedicated to justice, peace and brotherhood.”

“The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.”

Students market memorable weekend

Most students missed the Alumni Basketball Weekend on January 5 and 6. It was an exciting event that showcased the marketing talent of two students. Danny Mills and Adam Marland orchestrated a banquet and a basketball game between well-known alumni players. They deserve kudos for their great work, and I expect that they will receive an “A” for their senior project effort on the weekend.

It served as a point of recognition for Danny Miles, too. His 800th career win came in early December, but the tribute was more meaningful in the presence of his former players. All of Coach Miles’ wins have come at OIT, and that is remarkable in a society that finds professionals moving between employers many times during their careers.

I’ve placed some photos below for you all to see some of the action from that weekend.