Donna Lewelling

A native and life-long Oregonian, Donna has been involved in state-level higher education policy since 2006. Most recently, serving as Oregon’s Adult Basic Skills Director and the Director of the Office of Community Colleges and Workforce Development within the Higher Education Coordinating Commission. In her role at the state, she as the privilege of leading a team that works every day to create accessible pathways to success for all Oregon students. She is a passionate and fearless champion for adult learners and was recognized in 2018 as Oregon’s Outstanding Community College Advocate by her peers and the Oregon Community College Association.

Donna holds a bachelor’s degree in Management Administration and a master’s degree in Leadership and Management. When she is not advocating for adult learner pathways, she can be found spending time with her husband Todd, at least one of their nine grandchildren, and catering to the demands of their three pets, Furby, Trixie, and Señor Bishop.