Skagit Valley College (SVC) is proud to announce that SVC instructor, Sunaina Virendra, has been selected as a fellow in the Northwest Accreditation Commission’s Higher Education Leadership and Innovation Fellowship for 2025-26. Virendra serves as department chair for the college’s applied bachelor’s programs in management and healthcare management.
This prestigious fellowship recognizes outstanding leadership and dedication to higher education. The fellowship supports higher education leaders in developing and implementing initiatives that enhance institutional effectiveness, promote student success, and foster sustainable academic programming. Fellows engage in collaborative research and strategic planning efforts that drive innovation within their respective institutions.
Virendra, a seasoned higher education professional, brings a wealth of private sector experience in strategic thinking and operational implementation. She has been instrumental in shaping SVC’s applied bachelor’s in management program as an accessible and affordable bachelor’s pathway that is grounded in our community.
As one of the principal architects of the college’s faculty evaluation process, Virendra received her second Faculty Excellence Award. Her work, in the classroom and outside, has consistently demonstrated a commitment to fostering innovation and continual improvement in academic programming.
As a Northwest Accreditation Commission Fellow, Virendra will collaborate closely with the college’s cabinet, faculty, staff, and the broader community to develop a framework for strengthening SVC’s bachelor’s degree infrastructure, a critical element of the college’s strategic plan.
“We are thrilled to see Sunaina Virendra receive this well-deserved recognition,” said Dr. Christopher Villa, SVC president. “Her leadership and vision will continue to play a crucial role in developing a sustainable shaping the future of our bachelor’s degree programs. This fellowship not only highlights her exceptional contributions to SVC but also underscores our commitment to providing high-quality, accessible higher education for our community.”
“Sunaina’s work in shaping a strategic and sustainable approach for our bachelor’s degree infrastructure is vital for the future of Skagit Valley College and our students and progress on our strategic plan” said Dr. Gabriel Mast, vice president for planning and effectiveness. “Her expertise and dedication will help us create and strengthen sustainable, high-quality models that serves our students and our community”.
The Northwest Accreditation Commission Fellowship is a distinguished program that supports leaders in higher education as they work on transformative initiatives that advance institutional effectiveness and student success.
SVC offers six bachelor’s degree programs in high-demand fields designed to address regional workforce needs and provide career pathways for graduates.