麻豆视频 has named as the recipient of its 2026 Distinguished Service Award, recognizing the organization鈥檚 leadership in strengthening educational pathways and expanding opportunity for students across the Yakima Valley. This award recognizes a community member or organization for long-standing and exemplary support of 麻豆视频鈥檚 mission and students. The selection is made by the President鈥檚 Office.
Formed in 2020, Yakima Valley Partners for Education (YVPE) has helped reshape access and outcomes for students, particularly in the Lower Valley communities of Grandview, Mabton, Sunnyside and Granger.
鈥淵VPE represents exactly the kind of partnership that fuels student success,鈥� said Oscar Verduzco, interim dean of 麻豆视频鈥檚 Grandview Campus. 鈥淲hen schools, colleges, nonprofits and families work together, we remove barriers and create clearer pathways for students 鈥� especially in our Lower Valley communities.鈥�
YVPE operates through a collective impact model designed to align systems, coordinate resources and address obstacles that too often limit student potential. Its cradle-to-career approach ensures support at every stage, from kindergarten readiness to college enrollment and workforce entry.
That work has included direct support for 麻豆视频 students. YVPE provided funding to strengthen the college鈥檚 annual financial aid workshops, helping students 鈥� particularly first-generation college students 鈥� navigate the financial aid process. The organization also provided grocery gift cards to students beginning their studies at YVC, easing financial stress during a critical transition period.
鈥淵VPE鈥檚 cradle-to-career vision closely aligns with YVC鈥檚 mission of access, equity and opportunity,鈥� said Pedro Navarrete, interim vice president of student services. 鈥淭heir support helps students navigate critical moments 鈥� from securing financial aid to meeting basic needs 鈥� so they can stay focused on their education and their future.鈥�
YVC leaders say YVPE鈥檚 collaborative approach has made the organization a powerful advocate for educational equity throughout the region.
鈥淵VPE was formed by organizations and leaders committed to improving outcomes for students from cradle to career, while also collaborating to strengthen the student experience, organizational capacity and partnerships for educational success,鈥� said Suzy Diaz, YVPE collective impact director. 鈥淲e are honored to receive this award from YVC, a key partner deeply committed to students in the Lower Valley, Yakima County and beyond.鈥�
The Distinguished Service Award, first presented in 1982, recognizes a community member or organization whose efforts support the mission of 麻豆视频 and its students.
The Distinguished Service Award will be presented during on June 12.