YAKIMA, Wash. — The Yakima Valley College Board of Trustees officially appointed Teresa Rich as the 17th president of Yakima Valley College (YVC) during a meeting on Thursday.
Rich, a long-time YVC administrator, was serving as interim president since August 2024. YVC officials stated that Rich’s leadership has been pivotal in expanding student opportunities and strengthening academic programs.
“After a thorough and inclusive search process, the Board of Trustees is confident that Dr. Teresa Rich is the best person to lead Yakima Valley College into its next chapter,” YVC Board Chair Laura Flores said.
During Rich’s interim presidency, YVC celebrated several achievements, including partnerships with Yakima School District and Central Washington University to create pathways for high school students to earn postsecondary credentials.
YVC also signed articulation agreements with Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences, aiding students in pursuing healthcare careers. Additionally, the college received grants from the U.S. Department of Education supporting programs for first-generation and poverty-impacted students.
“I am honored to be selected to serve as Yakima Valley College’s next president and excited to work alongside our faculty and staff,” Rich stated.
The Board of Trustees began the search for a new president following the retirement of President Linda Kaminski in July 2024. The process included interviews with eight semifinalists and multiple opportunities for community engagement with candidates.
