A new trustee joined the Board of Trustees of Oregon Institute of Technology Oct. 1. Kim Faks, Assistant Director of Student Involvement and Belonging, was nominated by Governor Tina Kotek and confirmed by the Oregon Senate on Oct. 1, 2025.
Faks joined Oregon Tech in 2019, originally as Program Assistant in Student Services at the Portland-Metro campus. As Assistant Director, Faks leads all Student Involvement and Belonging programs and initiatives on the Portland-Metro campus, collaborating with partners across the university to ensure a student-centered approach to creating and implementing programming that enhances students' sense of belonging and increases their leadership development and cultural competency.
“During my six years at Oregon Tech, I have been inspired by the creativity and drive of our students and admired the dedication and collaboration among staff and faculty who play a vital role in each student’s success,” Faks said. “As a member of the Board of Trustees, I am committed to fostering a shared vision that empowers everyone to develop programs and make decisions that positively impact Oregon Tech’s success.”
The staff position was previously held by Michele Vitali, who provided leadership from 2021-2025.
The 15-member board comprises 11 at-large members, each appointed to serve a 4-year term; the University President, who is a non-voting, ex-officio member; and the faculty, staff, and student members, each appointed to a 2-year term.
For more information about Oregon Tech trustees, visit www.oit.edu/trustees.
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