Mark Garber Honored with Emeritus Status for Contributions to Mt. Hood Community College Foundation

Mark Garber, a longtime advocate for Mt. Hood Community College (MHCC), has been honored with emeritus status for his dedicated service on the college's Foundation Board. A former editor and media executive, Garber played a key role in supporting the college’s mission through fundraising efforts, community outreach, and consistent advocacy.

Garber’s journey with MHCC began in the 1980s when, as editor of the Gresham Outlook and Sandy Post, he forged relationships with college administrators, including former President Paul Kreider. He recalled attending Spanish classes at the college, as well as his involvement with the Mt. Hood Festival Jazz Festival, an event the Foundation helped establish.

“I’ve always been a big fan of Mt. Hood Community College,” Garber said. “When I was in journalism, we had interns from the college, and many of them went on to have great careers. It was clear even then that this college had a significant impact on the community.”

After spending several years away from East County, Garber returned in 2001 as vice president, and later president, of Pamplin Media Group. Soon after, MHCC invited him to join the Foundation Board, and he became a member in 2002, continuing his involvement for more than two decades.

“The college is the single greatest asset our community has,” Garber said. “It’s a place where anyone can go to get the skills they need for a successful career. And I’ve seen firsthand how it changes people’s lives.”

Garber’s dedication to the Foundation stemmed from his deep belief in the power of education and his desire to help students access opportunities. He particularly emphasized the value of scholarships, an area where he had the opportunity to directly contribute by reviewing applications.

“It was incredibly difficult to judge those applications because so many of the students were deserving of an award,” Garber explained. “That’s when I realized just how many bright, hardworking young people there are in our community who need our help.”

Reflecting on his contributions, Garber pointed to his role in telling the college’s story to the broader community. “Having the media platform to promote the Foundation and its work was probably my most meaningful contribution,” he said. “It wasn’t just about the donations Janet and I made; it was about helping the community understand the college’s impact.”

Throughout his tenure, Garber participated in numerous initiatives, from supporting annual fundraising auctions to serving on bond committees. He also highlighted the Foundation’s consistent efforts to support students, including the continual fundraising and responsible allocation of resources to ensure students receive the academic and life support they need.

“The challenges were just part of the work,” Garber said, noting that fundraising can be difficult. “It’s hard to ask for money, but you overcome that by remembering you’re doing it for the students, not for yourself.”

Garber’s dedication and work alongside other community members left a lasting impression. “The reward was knowing we were helping so many people build a bridge to a better life,” he reflected. “It was a privilege to work with so many others who shared that commitment to the college.”

Judi Charman, MHCC Foundation development officer, who worked alongside Garber for more than a decade, praised his enduring impact on the college. “Mark has been a constant champion for our college and students,” Charman said. “During his time on the board, we’ve improved our processes and grown our endowment, which allows us to support more students. His dedication to MHCC is remarkable, and that legacy directly benefits both our students and the entire community.”

Being named an emeritus member of the Foundation Board is a humbling recognition for Garber. “It’s an honor to receive this recognition, especially when I think about how much time has passed since I first joined the board,” he said. “But I know there are others who’ve done even more than me, and I’m in awe of their dedication.”

For more information about the MHCC Foundation, or to make a donation, visit the MHCC Foundation page.