MOUNT VERNON, Wash. — Skagit Valley College (SVC) is pleased to announce the appointment of Vhari Rust-Clark of Burlington to the college’s Board of Trustees. Rust-Clark was appointed by Washington State Governor Bob Ferguson, with her term beginning December 30, to fill the vacant trustee position previously held by Megan Scott O’Brien.
Rust-Clark brings extensive experience in healthcare leadership, operations, and advocacy. She currently serves as Area Manager for MultiCare Indigo Urgent Care and previously held leadership roles as Senior Practice Manager at Skagit Regional Health. Earlier in her career, she worked as a Registered Dental Hygienist at Roosevelt Dental of Skagit County, grounding her leadership experience in direct patient care.
Rust-Clark has a strong history of service to SVC and the broader healthcare community. She served on the SVC Foundation Board of Governors from June 2015 through June 2025, including time as an executive board member. Her community involvement also includes leadership roles with the Washington Dental Hygienists’ Association and the American Dental Hygienists’ Association, where she served as a state delegate and task force committee member.
She holds a bachelor of science in Dental Hygiene and a master of business administration and health services administration, both from Eastern Washington University, and is currently pursuing a doctorate of healthcare administration at Oklahoma State University.
“As a healthcare leader, I am committed to enhancing healthcare delivery, improving patient experiences, and supporting care teams,” said Rust-Clark. “Promoting access to preventive and compassionate care has been a consistent focus of my professional career.”
“As an executive board officer with the Washington Dental Hygienists’ Association, in collaboration with the Children’s Alliance advocacy organization, we spearheaded the legislative initiative in Washington state to establish and implement dental therapists,” said Rust-Clark. “I am honored to serve as a trustee of Skagit Valley College, which houses the first dental therapy education program in the state of Washington.”
SVC’s lead administrator Dr. Mike Cogan welcomed Rust-Clark’s appointment and emphasized the value of her experience and long-standing connection to the college.
“Vhari brings a deep understanding of healthcare systems, workforce development, and community partnership,” said Cogan. “Her leadership experience, combined with her years of service to the SVC Foundation, will be an asset to the Board of Trustees as the college continues to expand innovative programs that support student success and meet regional workforce needs.”
The Skagit Valley College Board of Trustees provides governance and oversight for the college, supporting its mission to transform lives through education and strengthen the communities it serves.
Media Contact Info
Marisa Pierce, Executive Director of Strategic Marketing and Communications
360.416.7957
marisa.pierce@skagit.edu