Alex Diaz Rios

What would be your top three priorities, if elected?

1. Celebrating Diversity and Elevating Equity: Every student, regardless of their race, academic ability, or socioeconomic status should be given access to quality education and services. Portland Community College is a diverse community where we must celebrate the rich backgrounds and experiences of our student population. I will ensure that the board remains focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion for all students and stakeholders, especially those who are underserved and underrepresented in our system. 2.Finance Equity: Community colleges are expected to be impacted in the next biennium, as forecasted by the state’s budget. To ensure that Portland Community College is able to maintain and operate at current service levels, I will work tirelessly on legislative advocacy to help achieve stable and adequate education funding to prevent a tuition hike that would adversely affect unrepresented and first-generation students. I plan to advocate on the behalf of Portland Community College and provide testimony to elected officials in Washington County and throughout the state. 3. Building a Community Coalition: The major function of a board is to act as a liaison between campus administrators and students and the larger community. I will ensure that we foster a culture of communication and transparency. Together, we can build a coalition to find solutions to that affect our system and the greater community. Considering our diverse student population and partnerships, we need to communicate and engage with our community more effectively.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

1. Increased access to retention/support services and programs. Equitable access to academic and vocational programs. Implementation of curricula and programs that are culturally relevant and inclusive. 2. A budget process that is student-centered with an equitable framework. A focus on maintaining current service levels and long-range strategic planning. Increased communication and inclusion on budget development with students, staff, and stakeholders. 3. Expansion of student leadership initiatives and student representation. Strategic relationships with educational institutions and community partners. Increased accessibility for stakeholders and community members to communicate with the members of the board.