During the 2025 Local Government Spring Conference, the League of Oregon Cities (LOC) presented the Good Governance Award to the City of Ashland for its Lifelong Learning Courses program. The award, which recognizes progressive and innovative city operations and services, was presented to co-recipients, with the cities of Chiloquin and Lincoln City also winning.
About the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) Courses
The City has partnered with Southern Oregon University (SOU) to offer courses through their OLLI program on local government for citizens. OLLI at SOU is a member-driven educational community primarily serving adults aged 50 and above.
Last fall, the course, Better Together: The Work of the City of Ashland, was held weekly for nine weeks, with 30 OLLI members/residents enrolled. City Manager Sabrina Cotta acted as the facilitator, and staff provided the content. The course provided an overview of the City’s essential services, and included PowerPoint presentations, discussion and Q&A. Currently, the City is offering the course, Show Me the Money, a deep dive into City finances. As it develops its next budget, the City’s goal is to foster greater community awareness of city governance, finance and operations. A general course on government operations is planned for this Fall and one with a specific topic is planned for next spring.
Pictured is City of Ashland Mayor Tonya Graham and Ashland City Councilor Jeff Dahle. Both attended the 2025 LOC Spring Conference. “I was honored to accept the award on behalf of the City of Ashland. We have been working hard to help residents understand the work of the City and its various departments and processes, so it's great to see that effort recognized by our peers across the state. Our staff led the way in developing the vision, securing partnerships with OLLI and SOU, and building the courses. We are lucky to have them working so hard on our behalf,” stated Graham.
View the OLLI Presentations
About the League of Oregon Cities
Founded in 1925, the LOC is a voluntary association representing all 241 of Oregon’s incorporated cities. The League helps city governments serve their citizens by providing legislative services, policy setting, intergovernmental relations, conferences and training, technical assistance and publications.
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We are Better Together!