Employees recognized for years of service
Vice President of Administrative Services Johnny Woods Jr., center, speaks with a colleague during the annual employee recognition event.
Faculty, staff and administrators came together for YVC’s annual employee recognition event, featuring a barbecue and ceremony honoring dozens of employees for their dedication to the college and its students.
YVC President Teresa Rich, left, and Maintenance Mechanic Tim Nadeau pose for a picture celebrating Nadeau's 10 years of service to YVC.
Employees were recognized in five-year increments, with milestones ranging from five to 30 years of service. Honorees were celebrated for their long-standing commitment to student success, educational excellence and the college’s mission.
Special recognition was given to employees reaching 20, 25 and 30 years of service, reflecting decades of institutional knowledge and leadership.
Library and Archives Paraprofessional Kayla Vibbert cooks hotdogs for colleagues as part of YVC's annual employee recognition event.
In addition to years of service awards, the college spotlighted its Employees of the Month over the past year across three categories: classified staff, exempt/administrative professionals and faculty. Recipients were celebrated for their outstanding contributions and embodiment of the college’s mission.
The event also honored a group of retirees whose collective impact spans generations. Those recognized included Pamela Moon (Workforce Education), Theresa Ryan (Library Services), Michael Lane (Campus Safety), Tracy Harden (Enrollment Services), Dianna Gadley (Workforce Education), Robert Grimes (Athletics), Rebecca Cort (Workforce Education), Eric Anderson (Arts and Sciences), Dan Ferguson (Allied Health Center of Excellence) and Richard Schillinger (Counseling and Advising).
Each retiree was acknowledged for the lasting impact of their work and their role in shaping a supportive and collaborative college community.
Zontek recognized for U.S. Mint collaboration
Â鶹ĘÓƵ History Instructor Ken Zontek has been selected by the U.S. Mint as a subject-matter expert for a commemorative coin scheduled for release in 2028. The coin will honor the Native American rescue and restoration of the bison on the Northern Plains, a field in which Zontek has conducted extensive research as author of (University of Nebraska Press).
Zontek also recently appeared on South Dakota Public Broadcasting’s “” to discuss how American Indian communities helped restore the buffalo population after it neared collapse in the late 19th century. He highlighted the legacy of Mary Good Elk Woman and Fred Dupree, whose early efforts to preserve the species contributed to herds that thrive today across tribal, state, federal and private lands.
Benefits & Resource Fairs support students
Â鶹ĘÓƵ students connected with vital support services during the college’s Benefits & Resource Fairs, held in April on the Yakima and Grandview campuses. The events brought together campus departments, community partners and state agencies to help students access resources that strengthen financial stability, support personal well‑being and remove barriers to academic success.
Throughout the fairs, students met one‑on‑one with service providers helping with financial and legal wellness, mental health, basic needs, veteran’s resources and transportation support. Many said they appreciated being able to ask questions directly and learn about programs they didn’t know were available. Free pizza added to the welcoming atmosphere, drawing students who then stayed to explore the full range of services.
This year’s fairs also featured on‑site support from two state partners. The Washington State Department of Social and Health Services Mobile Office helped students apply for or update eligibility for medical, food and cash assistance. In addition, the Washington State Department of Health’s Care-a-Van provided no-cost preventive health services and health education, expanding access for students who may face financial or transportation barriers to regular care.
“We saw students walk away with real solutions — from securing food and housing resources to getting immediate help with benefits applications,” said Rachel Villanueva, YVC’s benefits navigator. “The turnout and engagement show how much our students value support that is easy to access and delivered with care. This event truly strengthened our community.”
The college plans to continue hosting the Benefits & Resource Fairs annually as part of its commitment to improving student success and well‑being.
Story by Stefanie Menard, AA-DTA ’05, communications consultant. Photos by Brandon Mendoza, AA-DTA '19, graphic designer/multimedia content producer and from file.