Skagit Valley College is proud to announce that SVC political science instructor, Dr. Farhana Loonat, has been named Woman of the Year 2025 by the Skagit Women’s Alliance and Network (SWAN). The award ceremony will be held at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 16, at the Swinomish Casino and Lodge in Anacortes.
Dr. Loonat teaches courses in political science and philosophy at Skagit Valley College. Her personal and academic journey has been shaped by experiences as a first-generation college student and international scholar. These experiences continue to inspire her dedication to teaching, mentorship, and expanding access to education.
Dr. Loonat was awarded tenure in 2017 and her teaching has been recognized through multiple honors, including three teaching awards and four exceptional faculty awards. She has also received prestigious fellowships and recognitions such as the Fulbright Scholarship, the International Peace Scholarship, the César Chávez Human Rights Award from the American Federation of Teachers, and the American Political Science Association’s Community College Faculty Award. In 2022, the School of Oriental and African Studies at the University of London honored her as a contemporary woman philosopher. Her book, Equity and Inclusion Through Policy and Practice, is published by Bloomsbury.
She earned her master’s degree in philosophy from the University of Virginia in 2008, and a Ph.D. in political science from Vanderbilt University in 2014.
Beyond her academic work, Dr. Loonat has enriched the cultural life of the Skagit Valley by helping to organize community celebrations of South Asian traditions such as Vaisakhi, Diwali, and Bhangra. She is also a mentor to students and colleagues at SVC and provides guidance to graduate students nationally.
As a SWAN Woman of the Year recipient, Dr. Loonat remains committed to supporting students, mentoring emerging leaders, and contributing to the vitality of the community.
Media Contact Info
Marisa Pierce, Executive Director of Strategic Marketing and Communications
360.416.7957
marisa.pierce@skagit.edu