October 23, 2026

July 30 of each year recognizes National Support Public Education Day, a time to celebrate the essential role education plays in strengthening our communities and creating opportunities for future generations. This year, I would like to highlight the importance of equity in education. Many EvergreenHealth leaders and team members volunteer their time with local organizations to build meaningful partnerships and support the communities we serve. I have the privilege of serving on the Board of Directors for the Cascadia College Foundation. Cascadia College’s mission is to be “the community’s college… [and] deliver accessible, equitable, and superior educational experiences to inspire every person to achieve their educational and career goals.” Although they are small in size compared to other community colleges and large state universities (similar to how EvergreenHealth is small in size compared to the large healthcare systems across our region and the nation), Cascadia College has become a statewide leader in providing equitable education to all, including students of color, those who identify as LGBTQ+, those learning English as another language, those who are first generation in their family to attend college, those receiving need-based financial aid, students who are parents, and those using accessibility services. After several years of focusing on equity, they can proudly say:

• Students in their formal mentoring program are generally retained better than students who do not receive mentoring. Over 25 staff and faculty members volunteer as mentors.
• For the most recent academic year, Cascadia College’s overall transfer rate to four-year universities was the highest in the state and 28 points higher than the state average.
• More of their students move from developmental math to college-level math than anywhere else in the state.
• They have the highest Fall-to-Winter retention rate in the state at 89%, and non-White students are retained at the same rate as White students.
• And, perhaps most importantly, students feel a sense of belonging at Cascadia College higher than at any other community college!

These achievements remind us that when people feel supported, valued, and connected, they thrive. That principle is just as true in healthcare as it is in education. I am proud to support an organization that is helping build a stronger, more equitable community – much like the work we do every day at EvergreenHealth.

If you want to celebrate National Public Support Education Day, consider volunteering in a local classroom or school program, donating supplies to students or teachers, attending a school board meeting, sending a note of appreciation to a teacher or school staff member or sharing your support on social media using #SupportPublicEducationDay. Together, we can help create opportunities for equity, belonging and learning throughout our community.