2026 District 7 Pacesetter
Dr. Yoshiko Harden
President
Renton Technical College
Washington
Why is it important for college leadership to support its marketing and communications department?
I love working with our communications and marketing department to advance our vision “transformation through learning” and tell the Renton Technical College (RTC) story. Supporting the marketing budget is just one important piece of that. Collaborating to authentically tell the college story to both external and internal audiences on multiple platforms with an equity focus is essential. We should always ask, “Who needs to hear this message, and how will they get the information?” to reach our diverse audiences. Consistency builds trust. Communications and marketing sets the tone and informs people about the college and what we stand for.
How have you helped advance community/technical colleges on a regional or national level?
I believe that educational access and success lead to a more just and equitable society. When students can access education, complete their programs and start or advance their careers, they support their families and the communities we serve. I know the power of education firsthand, having watched my mother start community college as a single mom. That’s why I’m proud to serve on regional Workforce Development Committees and bring regional and national leaders together to talk about the importance of a technical college education. A recent visit by U.S. Sen. Patty Murray to the RTC Mechatronics lab, along with her $1 million in Congressional Directed Spending for RTC, is just the latest example of how I strive to advance our college and enhance awareness of this important pipeline.
Who is someone who’s mentored you during your career? What’s a piece of advice or story they’ve shared that you carry with you?
Earlier this year, my stepfather, Dr. Vincente Rafael, died from complications due to multiple myeloma. He was a professor, writer, esteemed scholar and historian. If Vince had not come into my life, I would not have developed an interest in working at a college or university. I recall that before he died, he reminded me that when he asked what I planned to do after I graduated from undergrad in 1996, I told him I wanted to become a college president.
As I often tell students, I struggled early in college. I always share that I’m a college president today, but I also dropped out of college and returned later to complete my undergraduate degree. I struggled with imposter syndrome and self-doubt. I suspect Vince wasn’t certain I would achieve my goal, but he didn’t show it. Instead, he said, “OK, I think you’ll be good at that.” He believed in me. I want to share that same support and belief in students, especially when they are struggling.