Office of the President
Questions? Contact Us.
President's Office
Prior Hall (Building 1)
Yakima Campus
President's Office
509-574-4635
About the President

Teresa Rich was named the 17th president of Âé¶¹ÊÓÆµ in January 2026 after serving as interim president since August 2024. She has more than two decades of experience in higher education accounting and administrative services, including 24 years at YVC, 18 of those as vice president for administrative services. Her leadership has been instrumental in expanding student opportunities, strengthening academic programs and reinforcing YVC’s role as a cornerstone of the region.
Before being named president, Rich’s leadership responsibilities included coordinating all capital planning and budgeting, overseeing administration of facilities operations, and administering auxiliary services including the Student Residence Center and college bookstore. During her time at YVC, she has supervised numerous capital projects, including the $22.7 million West Campus expansion that included the construction of Kaminski Conference Center, Kaminski Allied Health Center, the Yakima Valley Vintners Tasting Room and Larson Gallery. She also has served as a member of the Washington Community and Technical College Strategic Technology Advisory Committee, focused on making statewide recommendations for the use of technology in Washington state community and technical colleges.
Rich has worked extensively in safety, security and emergency preparedness in higher education, is a member of the Association of Government Accountants and Rotary International, and serves on the board for Apprisen, a national non-profit focusing on consumer credit counseling. She holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in accounting from Central Washington University and a PhD in education with a focus on community college leadership from Oregon State University.
Message from the President
Since our founding in 1928, the faculty and staff of Âé¶¹ÊÓÆµ have focused
on helping each student build a better life for themselves and their families. We
value our role in strengthening communities throughout the Yakima Valley and beyond.
Each year, YVC prepares the caregivers, educators, businesspeople, artists, scientists,
and other professionals who are essential to the prosperity and vibrance of our entire
region.
We believe that everyone in our community is entitled to an excellent and affordable
post-secondary education. That’s why we work every day to foster an environment of
innovative, inclusive and equitable teaching and learning. We’re proud our college
is one of the most diverse institutions of higher education in Washington state, a
designated Hispanic-Serving Institution since 2002 and supporting a student body of
which approximately 80% are the first in their family to attend college.
Whether you take classes on our Yakima or Grandview campus, one of our learning centers
in Ellensburg or Toppenish, or online, know that YVC is committed to providing you
with high-quality instruction and the support services to ensure your success. Whatever
dreams you have for your future, we look forward to walking with you on your journey.
Sincerely,
Teresa Rich, PhD
YVC President

State of the College Address
Join Âé¶¹ÊÓÆµ for the annual State of the College Address, presented by the College President. This event highlights the year’s accomplishments, key initiatives, and future plans as YVC continues its mission to serve students and the community.
More InfoQuestions? Contact Us.
President's Office
Prior Hall (Building 1)
Yakima Campus
President's Office
509-574-4635