Cat Graham, CGCC’s Registrar, received the Unsung Hero Award at the 2026 Student Success and Retention Conference in Portland. Her quiet, systems-level leadership focuses on removing structural barriers for students. In a role that is largely behind the scenes yet touches nearly every student, she is known for precision, reliability, and student-centered decision-making. Cat collaborates across departments to ensure compliance while protecting students from unintended harm. By moving paper-based processes to accessible online workflows and automating degree awarding, she has improved student persistence and completion and strengthened both the student experience and institutional effectiveness at CGCC.
“Catherine ‘Cat’ Graham is the embodiment of this award,” said Emilie Sanchez Lopez, CGCC Resource Navigator, in her nomination statement. “Through quiet, systems-level leadership, she has removed structural barriers that once limited student access and success. From redesigning registration processes to improving accuracy, efficiency, and completion, Cat’s work—though often unseen—touches nearly every student. Her precision, integrity, and unwavering commitment to equity exemplify CGCC’s mission of fostering student success.”
The SSRC is an annual conference hosted by the Oregon Council for Student Services Administrators (CSSA), bringing together higher education professionals from across the state to share best practices in student retention and success.
For more information about the conference, visit oregoncssa.com/2025-conference. CGCC congratulates Emilie Sanchez-Lopez on this well-deserved recognition and celebrates her invaluable contributions to our college community!