Will James
The Broadside
Try walking past the front office in the Campus Center at COCC. What’s the first thing a student might notice? How about the fact that the office of Student Life, directed by Gordon Price, has its door wide open, inviting anybody who has a problem or anybody who just wants to say ‘Hello!’ to bring their thoughts directly to Gordon’s desk.
Price grew up in Washington, D.C., graduating from Western Oregon University with a bachelor’s degree in Interdisciplinary Studies. He worked briefly at Chemeketa Community College in Salem before moving with his wife to Bend in 2004. He was soon hired at COCC and came on as the Financial Aid advisor under Laurie Neil, and months later Kevin Multop became his supervisor. Three years later Price became the Director of Student Life at COCC.
“Gordon is very student-oriented, patient, and does his job in a way that is both firm and compassionate.” Multop said.
“Listening is key,” said Price, “Everybody has a story to tell. And don’t take everything for granted.”
Price echoes this in his actions as well, as he is hailed by many, including Kevin Multop and Terri Botts, Dean of Student and Enrollment Services, as easy to work with, accessible and welcoming.
Not only does Gordon Price serve as the director of Student Life, he also serves as advisor to the Associated Students of Central Oregon Community College , and is an advocate of diversity and healthy student activities. Specifically, Price hopes to see an intramural college sports program return to the campus , something he considers to be a long term project of his.
He also hopes that his time at COCC and specifically as Director of Student Life will have a lasting impact on the student body.
“I hope that I will have been able to help make college a successful and positive experience for the students,” Price said. Clearly, with Gordon Price’s experience, compassion and patience in this position, it is a safe bet that that goal will be realized in the time that he is here. And of course, if one ever wants to know more about him, just drop on by. His door is always open.
You may contact Will James at [email protected]