Kenny Lowe Jr. challenges and improves systems to benefit all
By Becky Barrett
As a first-generation Black student at Oregon State, Kenny Lowe Jr., ’08, encountered a higher education system and environment not set up to serve students like him.
“I struggled to navigate unfamiliar territory,” Lowe recalls. “I had to learn the language of higher education through trial and error.”
He didn’t know he needed to talk to financial aid and academic advisors about money, housing and his progress toward graduation.
“That may sound basic and foundational. But I was never taught that stuff. Where does someone go to get these basics if high school doesn’t give it to you and your parents never learned?” Lowe asks.
In 2002, a lack of coordinated support left him vulnerable: when his unpaid account balance grew too large and he couldn’t afford to stay in college, he was asked to leave the dorms and experienced temporary homelessness. Fortunately, Lowe’s family was able to pay down his account so he could reenroll.
With determination, Lowe earned his degree, answering his calling to help all community members navigate systems with greater success.
As a state leader championing equity and social responsibility, Lowe challenges people to think differently. Leading by example and showing that progress is possible through mutual respect, open dialogue and shared humanity are among the reasons he was selected as a 2025 OSU Changemaker. The program, a part of the OSU Days of Service, celebrates Beavers who meaningfully transform their communities or fields of interest through their careers or volunteer work to underscore the profound impact that even modest efforts can have.
Lowe is pleased there are new culturally specific resources to help students at Oregon State. As a student, singing was the one thing that affirmed the feeling that he belonged on campus. He felt pressured to sing classical or opera but ultimately founded the a cappella group Outspoken (a thriving student group that continues to perform, even recording albums and competing in the International Championship of Collegiate A Cappella). He performed contemporary, pop, R&B and hip-hop music. He also won an international award in beatboxing and was the inaugural recipient of the Ed and Beth Ray Choral Leadership scholarship.
“Outspoken was a bit of a rebellion,” Lowe recalls. “It was familiar in an unfamiliar culture.”
After graduating with a degree in music, Lowe first worked in housing and behavioral health before joining the Oregon State Police where he is Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Manager and serves on the executive leadership team.
Through public service, Lowe strives for excellence and innovation by challenging and improving the status quo. The difficulty he overcame opened his eyes and inspired him.
“It was the apathy and inefficiencies in navigating safety net services that fueled me,” Lowe says.
Lowe is driven to improve systems and prevent people from slipping through the cracks. In a traditional institution like law enforcement, Lowe has earned the respect of his superiors and colleagues. He approaches sensitive issues with grace, humility and calm, and his reasoned perspective is fostering trust across divides.
In a time when differences in ideologies can seem insurmountable, Lowe brings people together. His journey of personal growth, overcoming challenges and fostering inclusive environments speaks volumes about his dedication, as noted in his OSU Changemakers nomination: “His ability to navigate complex, often controversial issues with grace and humility demonstrates strong emotional intelligence and a deep understanding of the human experience.”
Feeling inspired? Join the OSU Changemakers in making a difference: Participate in the OSU Days of Service throughout May. Join a project organized by fellow Beaver volunteers, start your own or log your hours for any personal service projects accomplished in May.