Q&A with long-time leader Tomás Ybarra

During nearly two decades at Yakima Valley College, Tomás Ybarra has witnessed a number of significant changes, from the increasing diversity of its student population to a wholesale reshaping of the academic culture. This summer, Ybarra will retire after serving as vice president of instruction and student services since 2006.

Before coming to YVC in 2003, Ybarra served on the staff at the Washington State Board for Community College Education from 1974-77, directed a TRIO Upward Bound program for 12 years and served as chief student affairs' officer for Bellevue College. At YVC, Ybarra led institutional reforms in instruction and student services to advance student success and make the institution more accessible, particularly for first-generation students.

As part of YVC’s process of becoming one of the first Achieving the Dream colleges in the state, Ybarra noted the college became more data-driven in its decision making and began to encourage more experimentation in its curriculum, pedagogy and student services. That experience laid the groundwork for YVC’s attraction to, and later adoption of, Guided Pathways to better connect students’ interests to a program of study.

Ybarra recently reflected on his time at YVC in a Q&A.

What is the biggest change you’ve seen at YVC during your time at the college?

One thing has not changed — people who work at Yakima Valley College love this place and this work. Our pride in place and purpose has been enduring. That said, I’ve observed increased engagement and collaboration among the faculty and staff at the program and division levels, together with a commitment to experimentation aimed at increasing student success.

Is there an achievement you’re particularly proud of being part of during your tenure?

Yakima Valley College embraced the challenge of responding to a significant change in the college-going population in the valley. Within a couple of decades we became the most diverse college in Washington State, with a majority of students needing assistance to be ready to learn at the college level.

Together, we responded to that challenge. Focusing on student success, we reformed fundamental practices that affect our students, while creating new opportunities for students to find their path and to thrive. We are making progress in student success on a level that positions YVC as a leader among the community and technical colleges in Washington State. YVC is demonstrating that equity is essential to excellence in a diverse and inclusive institution.

Tell us what retirement holds for you.

I look forward to spending more time with my family and seeing more of our country. Additionally, I hope to remain a resource to community colleges in Washington State, supporting adaptive change for the benefit of students and our communities.

Following your retirement, what’s something you’re excited to observe at YVC over the coming years?

We want to be the best at what we do. I am excited to see YVC continue to evolve and grow, and lead the state in student achievement.

Tomás Ybarra