The Joint Committee on Ways and Means meeting on March 22, 2025, highlighted the significant impact of educational support programs on marginalized communities in Oregon. A key speaker, who has a personal connection to the Gresham High School (GHS) community, shared insights on how College Possible has transformed the lives of students, particularly those from BIPOC backgrounds.

The speaker, a former GHS student and current manager of the SUN program, emphasized the importance of programs like College Possible in helping over 1,700 students envision a future in higher education. They noted that many students in the community feel a responsibility to uplift their families and contribute to generational wealth. The speaker introduced Elyssa, a former student who benefited from the SUN program and now serves as a supervisor, illustrating the program's ripple effect in fostering leadership among graduates.

The discussion underscored the urgency of continued support for educational initiatives, particularly House Bill 2997, which aims to sustain programs that assist students like Elyssa. The speaker expressed concern that without such support, opportunities for marginalized students could diminish, hindering their potential to succeed and give back to their communities.

The meeting also featured other speakers, including Bridal Gamblin from the Office of Developmental Disability Services, who further emphasized the need for comprehensive support for vulnerable populations in Oregon. The committee's discussions reflect a commitment to addressing educational disparities and ensuring that all students have access to the resources they need to thrive.