WVC Spotlights
Cathy Rixey
When Cathy Rixey walked across the stage to receive her associate degree from Wenatchee Valley College, it wasn’t just a diploma she was collecting. It was proof of a dream fulfilled.
Bryan Lopez
As a first-time college student, Bryan Lopez knew he needed a place where he could focus, feel supported, and stay connected to his goals. Bryan remembers the calm and welcoming atmosphere at Wenatchee Valley College that helped him thrive, especially during the challenging moments of the rigorous nursing program.
Blake Murray
Blake Murray first enrolled in WVC’s refrigeration program in 1969, but a sudden wave of patriotism led him to leave after one year to join the Army. After serving for three years, he returned to WVC, this time pursuing forestry, a decision that fed his love of the outdoors.
Roberto Villa
When Roberto Villa thinks back on his journey to Wenatchee Valley College, he remembers a few small moments that made a big difference. It was the encouragement from his high school counselor, the example of a friend who had already taken the first steps, and the feeling that maybe, just maybe, college could be within reach after all.
Larry Stephenson
Sometimes, all it takes is a small question to change the course of a life. For Larry Stephenson, that question came on an ordinary summer day at a plant nursery in Phoenix, Arizona: "Is there a college in Wenatchee?"
Bianca Ebreo
Sometimes the best decisions are the ones that keep you close to home. For Bianca Ebreo, choosing Wenatchee Valley College was about more than affordability, it also included being connected to her community.
Zach Eddy
Wenatchee Valley College was more than a stepping stone for Zach Eddy, it was the launchpad for a bold new chapter. After more than a decade working as an industrial laborer, Zach wanted something different for his future. He wanted something that challenged him creatively and WVC opened that door.
Maria Navarrete
For Maria Navarrete, Wenatchee Valley College was more than just a place to start her higher education journey. It was a place that felt like home. As a first-generation student, the idea of starting at a large university felt overwhelming. WVC offered something different: a welcoming environment, flexible class schedules that fit around her work life, smaller classes with personalized support, and an affordable path to her future.
Linley Wise
For Linley Wise, the decision to attend Wenatchee Valley College wasn’t just about academics, it was about staying grounded in her community, continuing her athletic journey and discovering her path forward. “I chose WVC to further my volleyball career and go to school where I grew up,” she said. “I was still figuring out what I wanted to do, and WVC gave me the experience, confidence, and degree I needed to take the next step.”
Nicole Maloney
Nicole Maloney’s college journey didn’t start at Wenatchee Valley College but that’s where it found a second wind and a supportive home. After the theater program at Seattle Central closed and the uncertainty of the pandemic loomed, Nicole faced a moment of doubt. “I really wanted to continue my education, but things got messy. I gave up on myself for a while,” she says. “Then I found WVC.”
Sheila Corson
Sheila Corson didn’t take the traditional path to college, but she always knew she was headed there. Without a high school diploma, she needed a place that would help her bridge the gap and WVC’s Omak campus was the perfect fit. It allowed her to catch up, explore her interests, and prepare for the next step, all while staying in her hometown.
Alejandra Hernandez
Alejandra Hernandez never planned to stay in one lane. Her career has taken unexpected turns, each shaped by her determination, adaptability, and a deep commitment to helping others. From earning two degrees at Wenatchee Valley College to working in healthcare and education, she’s proved that growth comes from embracing change.
Ron Lodge
For Ron Lodge, Wenatchee Valley College wasn’t just a place to take classes. It was where he found lifelong friendships, a deep love for music, and even his future wife. Born and raised in Wenatchee, Ron always knew he wanted to stay close to home. Ron's initial education goal was to transfer to a four-year school, but life had other ideas.
Jordan Johnson
When Jordan Johnson first set foot on the WVC campus as a Running Start student, college was a dream he never thought he’d chase. Raised in Wenatchee within a community that discouraged higher education, Jordan viewed the opportunity to attend WVC as a chance to unlock new possibilities.
Jennifer Perez
When Jennifer Perez graduated from high school, she didn’t have a clear roadmap for college. The youngest of four and the first in her family to pursue a degree, Jennifer made a practical choice: stay close to home, save money, and start her studies at Wenatchee Valley College.
Abdiel "AJ" Figueroa
Abdiel "AJ" Figueroa ’23 began his education journey at Wenatchee Valley College as a Running Start student. He found that WVC’s local connections and hands-on opportunities were the perfect match for his educational dreams, giving him the best jumpstart for his career goals.
Les Lamkin
Starting college at nearly 40 wasn’t part of Les Lamkin’s original plan. However, the support and encouragement from Wenatchee Valley College’s faculty helped him gain confidence, and soon, he found his footing.
Andrea Rodríguez Nuño
For Andrea Rodríguez Nuño, Wenatchee Valley College was the perfect higher education choice due to the proximity to home, affordability, and access to resources.
Michelle Erickson
After graduating from Eastmont High School, Michelle Erickson knew she wanted to help people but wasn't sure where to begin. Wenatchee Valley College offered her the perfect chance to explore her options.
Giselle Hernandez-Zafra
Giselle Hernandez-Zafra, a 2021 WVC graduate with an Associate in Business - DTA degree, spent some time with us sharing her experiences at Wenatchee Valley College.
Lupe Brito
Lupe Brito graduated from WVC in 2019 Graduated with Associate of Arts and Sciences and Associate of Business. She is currently the Development Director for the Wenatchee Valley College Foundation.
Alberto Aramburo
Alberto Aramburo graduated with an Associate of Arts and Science in 2016 and currently works as ECG and New Patient Referral Coordinator for Confluence Health.