OCCC Hosts Candidates Forum on Oct. 10
September 25, 2024
Oregon Coast Community College
Names Marshall Mease Roache as New President
At a special meeting on Monday, September 30, the Oregon Coast Community College (OCCC) Board of Education announced the appointment of Marshall Mease Roache as the College’s next president. Roache, currently the Executive Dean of Career and Technical Education and Public Safety at Chemeketa Community College, will officially step into the role on January 1, 2025, following the retirement of OCCC President Dr. Birgitte Ryslinge.
“I’m honored and delighted to join this extraordinary college and community,” Roache said immediately after the Board meeting. “OCCC provides transformative opportunities for Lincoln County and I can’t wait to be a part of something so important and impactful.”
Dr. Ryslinge, who became president in 2014, has led the College through significant milestones, including its independent accreditation, navigating the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, and spearheading a successful bond measure in 2024 to enhance the College’s facilities and resources.
Marshall Roache brings a wealth of experience from his time at Chemeketa Community College, where he oversaw key areas including Health Sciences programming—such as nursing and dental assisting—as well as applied technologies, apprenticeship programs, and the College’s Brooks Regional Training Center. Roache is no stranger to life on the Oregon Coast, having worked as the general manager of his family’s business in Cannon Beach from 1994 to 2003. His background also includes serving as a patrol officer and detective before joining Chemeketa as adjunct faculty in Criminal Justice in 2011.
Roache holds a Master’s Degree in Organizational Leadership from Fort Hays State University and a Bachelor’s in English from the University of Oregon, where he competed as a Division I collegiate wrestler. He is currently completing his Doctorate in Education at the University of Southern Mississippi, with an expected completion date in December 2024.
“OCCC is a remarkable college in a remarkable community,” said President Ryslinge Monday night. “Each leader brings something different. I’m delighted with the Board’s choice of Marshall as their next president, I’m confident he is the right leader for the challenges and opportunities ahead.”
Board Chair Rich Emery thanked the Board for their work, as well as the College’s outgoing president. “I’m going to miss you, Birgitte,” he said. “There’s no question about it.”
“We are very pleased, Marshall, that you have applied and have accepted our offer,” Emery continued. “Welcome – we are looking forward to working with you and, as the song goes, getting to know more about you.”
About Oregon Coast Community College
Oregon Coast Community College serves the communities of Lincoln County with high-quality education and workforce training opportunities. The College offers a wide range of degree and certificate programs, preparing students for careers in health care, science, trades, and more.
