Guided by Family, Grounded in Tradition, Growing Toward the Future – Wings Fall 2025

Heritage University President Dr. Chris Gilmer

Guided by Family, Grounded in Tradition, Growing Toward the Future

Heritage University entered a new era of leadership this fall with the inauguration of its fourth president, Dr. Chris Gilmer. The multi-day celebration, built around the theme of family, honored the university’s roots with the Yakama Nation, reflected on its 43- year history, and set a hopeful vision for the future of access and opportunity in higher education.

HONORING TRADITION

The celebration began with a cultural exchange hosted by the Yakama Nation, a meaningful acknowledgment of Heritage’s founding on the Yakama homelands and its ongoing partnership with the Tribe. Guests experienced a presentation on the Treaty of 1855, traditional drumming and dancing, and the symbolic transfer of Heritage’s Eagle Staff to Gilmer by students Paul Lopez and Celisse Milam. Yakama Nation Tribal Council Chairman Gerry Lewis formally welcomed the president, underscoring the shared commitment to education and sovereignty. The gathering concluded with a traditional salmon lunch, filled with honor songs and messages of goodwill.

THE INSTALLATION CEREMONY

On Friday, Heritage faculty, staff, students, alumni, and community members gathered on the Toppenish campus for the formal installation ceremony. Distinguished voices extended greetings, including Washington State Governor Bob Ferguson, Lewis, State Senator Curtis King of the 14th District, and State Senator Nikki Torres of the 15th District. The Heritage community was also well represented. Mercedes Garcia, president of the Student Government Association, spoke on behalf of students. Dr. Amy Nusbaum, president of the Faculty Senate, shared words on behalf of the faculty. Adriana Villafán, president of the Staff Educator Senate, offered reflections from staff, while alumna Betty Sampson, Class of 1992, spoke for Heritage graduates. Representing the Board of Directors, Dr. Kathleen Hilton, SNJM, added her greetings, underscoring the continuity of Heritage’s mission.

The ceremony wove together tradition and artistry. Heritage Senior Freddie Garza opened with a stirring rendition of the National Anthem. Later, National Book Award-winning poet Aaron Abeyta gave a powerful reading of his poem, The Moment of Liberation: When Your Dungeon Shook. The Wapato High School choir En Vox lifted their voices in “True Colors,” celebrating unity and authenticity.

The investiture itself, led by Board Chair Bob Gerst, officially conferred the responsibilities of the presidency to Gilmer. The moment was highlighted by a performance of “One Moment in Time” by soprano Ann McPhail, capturing the spirit of the occasion.

In his inaugural address, Gilmer shared his personal journey from rural Mississippi to higher education leadership, reflecting on the transformative power of opportunity. He emphasized Heritage’s mission of access, inclusivity, and service to first-generation students. “We are here to open doors,” he said, “and together we will build bridges for generations to come.” The program closed with blessings from Tougaloo College President Dr. Donzell Lee and a rousing performance of the Heritage alma mater “Lift High the Banner!” by En Vox. A southern-inspired reception in the campus café offered guests a chance to celebrate with the new president.

A GALA TO CONCLUDE THE CELEBRATION

The week concluded with a formal gala at Yakima’s Crown Ballroom. The evening combined elegance with heartfelt fellowship, featuring opera selections performed by McPhail and a southern-inspired menu honoring Gilmer’s roots.

CONTINUING THE CELEBRATION The inauguration events in the Yakima Valley are only the beginning. In the months ahead, Heritage University will continue celebrating Gilmer’s leadership with community gatherings in the Tri-Cities and through partnerships with educational organizations across the region.

To watch clips from the Installation ceremony, please visit https://heritage.edu/inauguration/.

Heritage University featured as cover story in national higher education magazine

A magazine cover with a group of people sitting on chairs in front of a tipi

The EDU Ledger magazine cover

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Heritage University featured as cover story in national higher education magazine

Toppenish, Wash. – Heritage University has been featured as the cover story of The EDU Ledger, a leading national publication that highlights innovation and leadership in higher education. The article, titled “The Call of Home,” explores how the university is reshaping educational opportunity in central Washington and beyond through its deep ties to community, culture, and access.

The article chronicles the inspiring story of Heritage University, a higher education institution founded on the Yakama Reservation in central Washington through the collaboration of local Yakama women and a Catholic sister determined to create access to college for underserved communities. It traces the university’s origins, growth, and mission to provide culturally responsive education that honors Native traditions while welcoming all students in the Yakima Valley. Highlighting the leadership of current president Dr. Christopher Gilmer, it showcases how Heritage continues to break barriers for first-generation, Native, and Hispanic students—proving that education rooted in culture and community can transform lives and strengthen entire regions.

“This recognition affirms what we have long known at Heritage—that our students and faculty are doing work that is both locally rooted and nationally significant,” said Dr. Christopher Gilmer, president of Heritage University. “We are honored that The EDU Ledger chose to highlight how the power of education, when connected to culture and community, can change the trajectory of entire families and regions.”

Founded in 1982 on the Yakama Indian Reservation, Heritage University has built a reputation for advancing equity in higher education through partnerships, cultural inclusion, and programs designed to meet the needs of diverse learners. The university’s story in The EDU Ledger underscores its ongoing commitment to creating pathways for success that honor heritage while opening doors to the future.

For Heritage students, faculty, and alumni, the national spotlight is both a moment of pride and a validation of the university’s broader impact. “It’s deeply meaningful to see Heritage recognized on a national platform,” said David Wise, Vice President of External Affairs. “It tells the world that the work happening here in central Washington matters.”

The full feature, “The Call of Home,” is available now in the latest issue of The EDU Ledger which can be accessed online here:

https://lscpagepro.mydigitalpublication.com/publication/?i=855737

For more information, please contact Davidson Mance, media relations coordinator at (509) 969-6084 or mance_d@heritage.edu.

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Heritage University launches innovative online Master’s in English

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Heritage University launches innovative online Master’s in English

Toppenish, Wash. – Heritage University announces the launch of its new online Master’s in English program, designed for working professionals, aspiring educators, and lifelong learners who want to deepen their love of literature and writing while advancing their careers. The program begins its first cohorts in January 2026 and August 2026.

Heritage’s online M.A. features literature courses that expand beyond the traditional canon and contemporary writing courses tailored to real-world applications. Students will work closely with faculty mentors to design a master’s pathway aligned with their personal and professional goals, whether that’s teaching, publishing, research, or community engagement.

“The curriculum of our new Master’s in English program aims to bring together students with a passion for literature and writing who wish to make a difference across Washington and the nation in classrooms, workplaces and communities,” said Literature & Languages Program Director Ann Kendall.

Students can choose between two focus areas to personalize their studies:

Teaching focus– Ideal for those interested in teaching at community colleges, dual enrollment programs, or who already hold K-12 certification.
Thesis focus– Designed for students planning to pursue a PhD, teach at the university level, or expand their expertise in literature and writing for professional growth.

The program is open to students from all undergraduate backgrounds, making it accessible to anyone with a passion for language, stories, and critical thought.

A virtual open house will be held on November 6, 2025, at 6 p.m. (PST) via Zoom, where prospective students can meet faculty, ask questions, and explore how this program fits their goals. To learn more about the program, visit heritage.edu/MAEnglish.

For more information and help with interviews, please contact Davidson Mance, media relations coordinator at (509) 969-6084 or mance_d@heritage.edu.

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Heritage University announces inauguration of Dr. Chris Gilmer as fourth president

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Heritage University announces inauguration of Dr. Chris Gilmer as fourth president

Toppenish, Wash. – Heritage University is hosting the inauguration of Chris Gilmer, Ph.D. as its fourth president at its Toppenish campus on Friday, October 17, 2025. Doors open at 9:30 a.m., and the Installation Ceremony at Heritage will begin promptly at 10:00 a.m., followed by a reception at 12:00 p.m.

Inaugurations are as much of a celebration of the university and the communities they serve as they are of the incoming president. Dr. Gilmer joined Heritage University on July 1, 2025. He succeeded Dr. Andrew Sund who retired after serving as president for eight years. Gilmer has served as president of two Appalachian universities, West Virginia University at Parkersburg and West Virginia University Potomac State College. He has served as a faculty member and administrator at three Historically Black Colleges and Universities including Tougaloo College, in Jackson, Mississippi, where he was the Vice President for Strategic Initiatives and Social Justice and served on the college’s Board of Trustees. Gilmer has also served at one Hispanic-Serving Institution, Adams State University in Colorado, where he was Vice President for Academic Affairs. He is also the founder of the National Institutes for Historically- Underserved Students.

Dr. Gilmer received a bachelor’s degree in English/Journalism from the University of Southern Mississippi, a master’s degree in English from Mississippi College, and a Ph.D. in English from the University of Southern Mississippi in Hattiesburg, MS. Gilmer and his spouse David live in Yakima, Wash.

The public is invited to attend Dr. Gilmer’s installation ceremony and reception and are encouraged to RSVP at heritage.edu/installation. For more information, please contact Davidson Mance, media relations coordinator at (509) 969-6084 or mance_d@heritage.edu.

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Heritage University presents “An Evening with Jackie Cruz” as part of Hispanic Heritage Month celebration

Heritage University Presents Jackie Cruz

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Heritage University presents “An Evening with Jackie Cruz”
as part of Hispanic Heritage Month celebration

Toppenish, Wash. – Heritage University is proud to welcome actor and singer Jackie Cruz to campus on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, as part of its annual Hispanic Heritage Month celebration. Best known for her breakout role as “Flaca” in the award-winning Netflix series Orange Is the New Black, Cruz has captivated audiences both on-screen and on-stage with her talent and authenticity. Beyond her artistic achievements, she is recognized for her inspirational story of resilience, perseverance, and self-discovery. From experiencing homelessness to surviving a devastating car accident that nearly left her paralyzed, Cruz has transformed life’s hardships into opportunities to inspire others, making her an empowering voice for overcoming obstacles and embracing personal growth.

“An Evening with Jackie Cruz” will take place at 6:30 p.m. in Smith Family Hall on the Heritage University campus in Toppenish, Washington. This free public event invites students, faculty, and community members to hear Cruz share her journey and celebrate the richness of Hispanic culture and heritage. Guests will experience an evening of storytelling, conversation, and connection, highlighting the values of resilience and representation that resonate deeply within the university’s mission. Seating is limited – attendees are encouraged to RSVP in advance at heritage.edu/jackiecruz.

This event is made possible through the generous support of the Rotary Club of Yakima and Heritage University. Together, these partners are proud to offer opportunities that celebrate diversity, foster cultural awareness, and bring nationally recognized voices to the Yakima Valley community. For more information, please contact Davidson Mance, media relations coordinator, at (509) 969-6084 or mance_d@heritage.edu.

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Heritage University receives $2.1 million NSF grant to increase student success in STEM

Jessica Black, Ph.D.

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Heritage University receives $2.1 million NSF grant to increase student success in STEM

Toppenish, Wash. – Heritage University will use a five-year, $2.1 million grant from the National Science Foundation to increase student success in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Over the next five years, Heritage will implement the “Strengthening Rural STEM Education” project, aiming to close gaps in student achievement. This will be accomplished by helping both the institution and its students build confidence and a sense of belonging in the STEM fields.

Project leader Jessica Black, Ph.D., professor of Environmental Science and Studies at Heritage, says a big part of strengthening STEM education at Heritage will be to integrate undergraduate research opportunities with strong academic support systems. The three research opportunities include:

Panama Indigenous Intercambio Program (PIIP): A two-week international research experience fostering global STEM citizenship through collaboration with Indigenous ecological experts in Panama
Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowships (SURF): Eight to ten-week intensive research experiences with regional partners, including Washington State University, the USDA, and the Yakama Nation Department of Natural Resources
Academic Year Undergraduate Research Fellowships: Extended research opportunities supporting senior thesis and capstone projects

Dr. Black says the project will create sustainable pathways for student success while serving as a replicable framework for other institutions nationwide. “At its core, this project is about giving students the tools, mentorship, and opportunities they need to thrive in STEM.”

Dr. Black also says rural schools face unique challenges in keeping STEM students on track, especially after the setbacks caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. To tackle this, Dr. Black says the project will make cultural and structural changes on campus by:

Encouraging more open conversations between campus leaders and STEM faculty,
Providing training for administrators, and
Getting leadership more involved in student-centered STEM activities.

Heritage University President Dr. Chris Gilmer is excited about what the project will accomplish for both STEM students and the university’s STEM-related partnerships with other institutions. “What thrills me most about this project is how it combines innovative research methods—like student journaling, storytelling, and international experiences—with hands-on support such as research fellowships and early intervention programs, said Dr. Gilmer. “And it’s not just about helping students succeed in STEM today, but about building stronger connections between leadership and students, creating programs that serve entire communities, and preparing graduates to thrive in a global workforce. By sharing what we learn nationally, we hope to provide a model that other institutions can build on.”

Dr. Black says the bigger picture is about creating stronger connections between leadership and students, building community-focused STEM programs, and preparing more graduates for the global workforce. “Our findings will be shared widely through publications, conferences, and national networks so other institutions can benefit,” she said.

For more information and help with organizing interviews, please contact Davidson Mance at (509) 969-6084 or mance_d@heritage.edu.

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In Memoriam – Wings Summer 2025

Sneh Veena

Former Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Sneh Veena passed away surrounded by her family on April 6, 2025, in Walnut Creek, California. She was 86.

Veena was a lifelong educator with two doctoral degrees who spent 56 years in higher education, including 13 years at Heritage. She was a strong advocate for ensuring academic accessibility to all, regardless of ethnicity, income, or family background. She joined Heritage in 1998 after serving for 20 years at Voorhees College, a historically black liberal arts college in Denmark, South Carolina.

During her tenure at Heritage, Veena was credited for developing several new academic programs, including the criminal justice and practical nursing programs, setting the foundation for the Bachelor of Nursing program. She also expanded several existing programs, including business and social work.

In addition to her work on programming, Veena took strides in diversifying the university’s faculty. At the time of her retirement in 2011, nearly a third of the full- time faculty were Native American, Hispanic, African American or Asian American.

At the time of her retirement, Veena was awarded Professor Emeritus. She addressed the campus community, saying, “Working for Heritage opened up my heart more than I ever imagined. I feel like every moment I have worked here has been God’s mission.”

Veena’s family requested, in lieu of flowers, a donation be made in her memory to the Berbarta-Veena Family Endowed Scholarship Fund at Heritage University.

News Briefs – Wings Summer 2025

Heritage University unveils completed STEM learning center in Ross Center remodel

Heritage University has completed a major renovation of the Kathleen Ross, SNJM Center, transforming it into a cutting-edge learning space anchored by the new Adelante STEM Center. The $2.5 million project, which broke ground in December 2024, was made possible through a $1.5 million Adelante STEM grant from the U.S. Department of Education and a generous $1 million private donation.

The remodel brings a host of upgrades to the university’s academic environment, particularly in STEM education. The new Adelante STEM Center features state-of-the-art math and computer science classrooms, a maker space for hands-on learning and innovation, and new study rooms with modern, student-friendly furniture. These spaces are equipped with advanced teaching technology to prepare students for careers in high-demand, tech-driven industries.

One of the most impactful features of the remodel is the proximity of the STEM Learning Center to the Academic Skills Center (ASC). Students now benefit from convenient access to tutoring, collaborative workspaces, and academic technology—all just steps away.

The renovation also included significant updates to the Donald North Library, located within the Ross Center. While construction caused a temporary disruption, the final result is a more modern, functional, and welcoming environment for research, study, and community engagement.

Faculty share insights on Latina first-gen Ph.D. journey at AERA

Amy Nunez (top) and Laura Zamudio-Orozco (bottom)

Dr. Laura Zamudio-Orozco and Dr. Amy Nuñez presented at the American Educational Research Association (AERA) Annual Meeting in Denver, CO. Their session, titled “Reflections from McNair Scholars: Latinas Navigating the Ph.D. Pathway as First- Generation College Students,” highlighted the experiences of Latina scholars pursuing doctoral degrees.

The 2025 AERA meeting, the world’s largest education research conference, featured over 2,500 sessions showcasing cutting-edge research, renowned experts, and numerous opportunities for learning, networking, and collaboration.

Thank You! Times a Million

Records are meant to be broken. This year’s Bounty of the Valley Scholarship Dinner didn’t just break the record; it smashed it!

At the end of the evening, when the last bid number went down, the total raised was a heart-stopping $1,297,744! This bypassed last year’s amount by almost $190,000, making it the most successful event in the university’s history.

“This incredible show of support from our community is more than just a number—it represents opportunity, transformation, and hope for our students,” said David Wise, vice president for Marketing and Advancement. “Each dollar raised goes directly toward opening doors and helping students achieve their dreams.”

This year’s event was more like two events as Heritage simulcast the program between the Toppenish campus and a second celebration in Seattle.

“Bringing Scholarship Dinner to Seattle allowed many of our most passionate supporters to share the Heritage experience with their friends on the west side of the Cascades,” he said. “It created a meaningful opportunity for connection, storytelling, and celebration that extended the spirit of the event far beyond our campus. The energy in both rooms was electric, and the impact of uniting these two communities was truly powerful.”

A combined total of 300 supporters attended the sold-out event, including four Heritage University presidents: Founding president Dr. Kathleen Ross SNJM, her successor Dr. John Bassett, outgoing president Dr. Andrew Sund, and Dr. Chris Gilmer, who became president of Heritage in July.

“We are grateful beyond words to everyone who contributed to this unforgettable evening,” said Wise. “Your support will have a long-lasting impact on our students for generations.”

Transpacific Teaching – Wings Summer 2025

“When you have an education, you can do anything you dream of doing,” Maria Batarao’s parents told her and her brothers.

It’s been the through-line in Batarao’s life, from her years as a classroom teacher, to two positions as school principal, to her role since 2022 as executive director of instructional technology and assessment in the Wapato School District.

Maria Zavic Batarao

And it doesn’t end with her Yakima Valley community: Beyond her “day job,” Batarao supports a school for 25 children in the central Philippines.

Batarao grew up in Solano Nueva Vizcaya, a small town in north central Philippines, with her mom, dad, and four brothers.

The family came to the United States in 1999 when Batarao was 20 years old.

Her parents worked in education their whole lives — her dad was an engineer and university professor, and her mother was an executive assistant to a university president. They went to work as AmeriCorps volunteers as soon as they arrived in the Yakima Valley, believing it would be a good entry into the area workforce.

“Teaching in AmeriCorps was a bridge in a new country,” Batarao said. “They pushed themselves — and they pushed us children as well.

“Our parents always said we had just a few choices for what to do,” Batarao said. “‘You work on a farm, you work in a grocery store, or you go back to school.’

“They always said, ‘If you have your diploma, wherever you go, that can never be taken away. There is always a career waiting for you. The more education the better.”

At age 20, just before the family came to live in the United States, Batarao graduated with a bachelor’s degree in mass communication from Manila’s Far Eastern University. Once in the U.S., following in her parents’ footsteps, she went to work as an AmeriCorps volunteer working with second, third, and fourth-grade students in need of reading intervention at Whitney Elementary School in Yakima. Two of her brothers enrolled at Heritage University.

Batarao’s first experience working with young children established her career trajectory.

“I vividly remember the first day I met my third graders — I was so excited, and they welcomed me with great warmth and enthusiasm,” Batarao said. “I went home that day and told my family, ‘I already love this!’

“It was incredibly fulfilling as time went on to witness their confidence grow alongside their reading skills.

“I knew I wanted to be in the classroom full-time.”

Just as her students inspired her, Batarao also found herself inspired by the education leaders she saw around her at Whitney.

HERITAGE PROVIDED NEEDED MEANINGFUL SUPPORT

Batarao knew that pursuing an advanced degree would be an important next step in her work in education. Having first seen the Heritage University experience through her brothers’ time there, Batarao also chose to study at Heritage, pursuing a master’s in education in professional development.

“My brothers’ professors at Heritage really supported them and provided meaningful opportunities to grow within the classroom and beyond,” Batarao said. “That was especially important for us with the language and cultural challenges we had early in our time in the U.S.”

Batarao found similarly positive experiences at Heritage with three education department advisors, citing three mentors in particular: Pam Ruth, Caroline Mason, and Jack McPherson.

“I was getting my teacher certification credits, I was a full-time student in the master’s program, and I was doing my research work, and there was so much of the educational jargon, budget discussions, and law issues that I was completely unfamiliar with,” Batarao said. “But when I would say it was too hard, each of them would tell me, ‘You can do this, Maria.’ They were very hands- on and provided connections to many resources, which was what I needed.

“Those Heritage role models were kind and patient, and they would always tell me I had the potential to be a leader. For that, I am forever grateful.”

Batarao wanted to inspire students the way her mentors inspired her.

“Because of them and others who’ve inspired me, I am passionate about making sure students know they, too, are capable, they are supported, they can absolutely achieve their goals — sometimes even more than they imagine.”

A PASSION FOR WORKING WITH CHILDREN

By 2001, Batarao had her master’s. She taught for seven years, then spent two years as an instructional coach. In 2013, she became principal at Camas Elementary, and in 2018 became principal at Simcoe Elementary.

She began her current role as Executive Director of Instructional Technology and Assessment for the Wapato School District in 2022. In that role, Batarao oversees technology, assessment, the Highly Capable program for high achieving- potential students, the High School and Beyond Plan that helps students from disadvantaged backgrounds, and other areas.

“In my current role, I help create a positive school culture, I support teachers in doing their best work, and I can help make sure every student feels seen, supported, and set up for success,” Batarao said.

“I’ve seen how leadership decisions can make a difference, and impact an entire school community. It’s all about making school a place where both kids and staff can thrive.”

Across every role, what she’s loved most is interacting with her students. “I love getting to know each child, understanding them and where they come from, and creating important connections,” Batarao said.

“That’s always been at the heart of my work, no matter what position I’m in.”

Batarao feels her work impacts the entire Wapato School District and the larger community.

“When we build strong, consistent systems that make life easier for everyone — staff, students, and families — in the process and in the end, we are building a better, stronger Wapato community.”

CONNECTING THROUGH COMMUNITY

Batarao has always sought to build connections and support for children who need it.

When she arrived in the Yakima Valley at age 20, Batarao found community in Yakima’s Wapato Filipino American Youth Group, which like a home away from home.

A year later, she and her brother Rogelio established a group for young people known as the Batang Wapato Group. Through the group, Filipino-American youth connect with their roots through traditional and folk dance.

“It started as a dance group,” Batarao said. “But it was and is so much more than that. It’s a living classroom of culture, community, character — and connection.”

In 2015, Batarao launched a small scholarship initiative at a rural school in the Philippines. It began with a simple goal of supporting young students by covering essentials like tuition, uniforms, shoes, and school supplies.

Over time, that small effort has grown— expanding to a neighboring town, touching even more young lives.

Each month, Batarao sets money aside from her earnings; each year, she provides 25 children with full scholarships to the school she established. Every spring, her mother goes to the Philippines to meet with the teachers and students, learn how they’re doing, and find out what they need. She orders uniforms, shoes, school supplies, and backpacks for the coming school year.

Batarao hopes to be able to visit the children and their teachers in the Philippines next year. In the meantime, “her kids” send her photos on Facebook Messenger and let her know when they’re on the honor roll and what they’re doing in sports.

“There are a lot of poor children in the Philippines, especially in the rural areas where the government sometimes cannot reach them,” Batarao said. “They’re smart kids who just need some help. I help them however I can.

“I love kids. They are the hope for our future, and that’s why I do everything I do. I just want to make a difference in these young lives however I can. “They’re able to thrive, and that’s what matters.”