OAK HARBOR, Wash. — Skagit Valley College has selected James Monroe as the new administrator for its Whidbey Island Campus in Oak Harbor, bringing more than 20 years of leadership, operations, training, and team development experience to the role.
An Oak Harbor resident and U.S. Navy veteran, Monroe will provide leadership for the Whidbey Island Campus, with a focus on student success, campus operations, community engagement, and strengthening partnerships throughout Whidbey Island.
“What excites me most about joining Skagit Valley College is the opportunity to continue serving the students and communities of Whidbey Island,” Monroe said. “As an Oak Harbor resident, I have a personal investment in the success of our community and understand the important role the college plays in providing accessible educational opportunities and workforce pathways.”
Prior to joining SVC, Monroe served in leadership roles in the U.S. Navy, including as a training officer and leading chief petty officer. In those roles, he directed operations across multiple training sites, supervised instructional teams, managed more than 100 courses, and advised senior leaders on program effectiveness and continuous improvement.
Monroe describes his leadership approach as collaborative, servant-oriented, and relationship-focused. Among his priorities at SVC are enhancing the student experience, supporting student success both inside and outside the classroom, and expanding the campus's connections with local organizations, businesses, military partners, and the broader Whidbey Island community.
“I hope to build relationships with students, employees, local organizations, and community partners by being present, visible, and accessible,” Monroe said. “Meaningful relationships are built on trust, and trust develops when people know they are seen, heard, and valued.”
Monroe also brings a personal connection to the transformative power of education. He credits leaders he met while serving at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island with encouraging him to recognize his own potential and pursue opportunities he once did not envision for himself.
“Education never came easy to me, and for a long time I didn't see myself as someone who would pursue the opportunities I have today,” Monroe said. “That experience continues to guide my work in education. I strive to create opportunities for students and colleagues to learn, grow, and achieve goals they may not have thought possible, just as others once did for me.”
Looking ahead, Monroe hopes to further establish the Whidbey Island Campus as a gathering place for learning, collaboration, and community engagement while increasing SVC's visibility and presence throughout the island.
“Ultimately, my goal is to ensure that every student who walks through our doors feels supported, welcomed, and empowered to achieve goals they may not have thought possible,” Monroe said.
Monroe earned a bachelor's degree from Columbia College and a graduate certificate from Columbia Southern University. A veteran and military spouse, he and his wife call Oak Harbor home and enjoy exploring Whidbey Island, golfing at local courses, dining at local restaurants, and supporting area small businesses.
Media Contact Info
Marisa Pierce, Executive Director of Strategic Marketing and Communications
360.416.7957
marisa.pierce@skagit.edu