In 'To Raise Money for His Students, This College President Started Running. And Running. And Running.' by Aisha Baiocchi dated July 24, 2025 article within The Chronicle of Higher Education. Community college president Tim Cook describes his efforts about fundraising through running and how it has gained media attention.

Overview

I understand how students may struggle, while attending a community college as I did as well. I tried to work a job and found it difficult to attend classes full-time. I became a nontraditional student, studying half-time, while living as a caregiver and participating in extracurricular activities. I feel for the student who faces many challenges, then and now.

Students are facing financial troubles as detailed in the article, whether requiring a living wage, grants and/or loans. It is easy to praise Tim Cook, president of Clackamas Community College for his dedication and hard work in helping his students face hardships. It is impressive that Mr. Cook runs marathons in his current effort to raise funds for the college's foundation, which will be given to students facing economic difficulties so they can continue to attend class.

Tim's efforts have gained media attention, which is wonderful. Tim says that he does not expect president's of other colleges to run marathons or miles a day to help raise money for students. Tim says he will help work with state legislators in Oregon to help pass legislation. Current efforts are underway to help fund students needs. The media attention has helped spark the need for his state and community college network to be on the state's radar.

State and federal educational funding outreach

It is my hope that the students in Oregon contact their local and state representative about their problems. Students may call, text, write, and/or fax their story to their representative to educate them. Students may visit the representatives office when available. If students are in Washington DC they may visit their federal office as well. Keep the pressure on until legislation is created and passed into law.