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I believe that educational access and success lead to a more just and equitable society. Students’ ability to access education, complete their program, and start or advance their careers supports families and the communities we serve.
I know firsthand the power of education to change lives and better society. When I was 12, my parents divorced, and my mother started college at Leward Community College in Oahu, Hawaii. I watched my mother navigate starting college as an adult, with young children, with limited finances and financial support (and limited time to study!).
She applied for financial aid and scholarships to pay for school and support our family. She went on to transfer to the University of Hawaii, Manoa, and graduated with a degree. She sacrificed so that I could have access to opportunities. This is why I have spent my career serving community and technical colleges in Washington, and why I am honored to be RTC’s first woman and first person of color to serve as president. And it’s why I’m so passionate about seeing other students succeed.
We, as a college, are doing all we can to dismantle barriers for students, especially those from historically underrepresented groups. Barriers like access to affordable housing, childcare, and transportation often mean students must sacrifice their education. The college’s 2024-2029 Be the Place Strategic Equity Plan centers on equity as the path to transform our college, our communities, and the workforce.
I look forward to seeing you find your place at Renton Technical College.
Dr, Yoshiko Harden
President
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