AUSTIN FÖLNAGY, 37
Incumbent, Zone 4
Hometown: Harrison, Idaho
Marital status: Single
Employer and occupation: Employment Department, employment specialist
Public sector experience: State of Oregon, Employment Department
Private sector experience: Founder and CEO of Magyar Property Management and Investment LLC
Elected office held: Klamath Community College Board 2013-17; Southern Oregon ESD Board 2019-20; Lane Community College Board 2021-present
Leadership style: “Driven”
At your best: “Compassionate”
At your worst: “Passionate”
I have 14 years of experience in workforce development, business services, community organizing, labor relations, and education. I had the honor of serving previously as Vice Chair of Klamath Community College and, as the Chair of Lane Community College. I currently serve as President of the Oregon Community College Association, where I work with higher education partners to advocate for all 17 community colleges across Oregon.
I am running for re-election because I believe in the promise of Lane Community College, that individuals can make courageous changes to their lives through education. My platform includes:
Education for All: Access to fair and affordable education should not be determined by immigration status, economic standing, work schedule, or life circumstances. I am dedicated to ensuring all students have the support and opportunities necessary to achieve their educational, career, and life goals.
Clear Pathways to Careers: Collaborating with local industries in our community to train, mentor, and guide students towards both their educational and vocational ambitions, leading to family-wage jobs that suit Lane County’s workforce needs.
Support Students: Investing in student well-being and basic needs, empowering students through comprehensive support. Pursuing state funding for holistic wrap-around services for student success. Directing financial and other resources towards initiatives that directly benefit students, such as enhanced academic advising, tutoring services, learning centers, and technology upgrades that improve the learning experience.
Community’s College: When communities feel disconnected from their institutions, trust breaks down, and so does engagement. One of my core values is making public institutions truly accessible and accountable. That’s why I’ve prioritized student representation on the board, advocated for inclusive policy development, and consistently supported open forums and community input sessions. I believe democracy works best when the people most affected by decisions are at the table—and that includes students, workers, and historically underrepresented communities.
Community colleges serve as an essential bridge between education and local economic needs. My vision centers on creating a dynamic and responsive educational ecosystem that addresses industry requirements. My vision is to expand vocational and technical education by partnering with local industries and unions to create programs that align with current job market demands. We need to provide flexible learning options, such as online, hybrid, evening, and boot camp courses, to accommodate the diverse needs of our students.
I ask for your vote! This election is incredibly important, and your participation is crucial to our community.
