Heritage University President Announces Major Leadership Expansion and Bold Vision for the Future

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Heritage University President Announces Major Leadership Expansion and Bold Vision for the Future

Toppenish, Wash. – Heritage University President Dr. Chris Gilmer has announced a broad expansion and reorganization of the university’s leadership team, paired with strategic initiatives designed to strengthen student success, deepen community partnerships, and position Heritage for continued growth as it approaches its 50th anniversary in 2033.

Central to the expansion is the appointment of Sagrario Armenta-Jimenez as Vice President of Administration and Chief Financial Officer. Armenta-Jimenez brings extensive experience in education finance and operations. “Sagrario is an exceptional leader whose commitment to transparency, fiscal stewardship, and student-centered decision-making aligns perfectly with the direction we are taking Heritage University,” said Dr. Gilmer.

Dr. Gilmer also announced a series of leadership promotions, including David Wise, who has been elevated from Vice President to Senior Vice President of Advancement, Marketing, and Admissions. During Wise’s tenure, Heritage has more than doubled annual giving from $1.5 million to $3.1 million and secured transformative philanthropic investments, including a historic $10 million unrestricted gift, a $6.3 million scholarship gift, and a $2 million endowed chair in nursing.

Crystal Sampson has been promoted to Chief of Staff to the President and Vice President of Operations, formalizing a role she has effectively filled since Dr. Gilmer’s arrival. With nearly 20 years of leadership experience at Costco and service within the Yakama Nation’s administration, Sampson becomes the first enrolled member of the Yakama Nation to hold the title of Vice President at Heritage University—reflecting Gilmer’s commitment to leadership that mirrors the university’s community and strengthens relationships with tribal nations.

Additional promotions include SaraBecca Martin to Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs, expanding her role overseeing accreditation, institutional effectiveness, and academic planning, and Adriana Villafan to Associate Vice President of Student Affairs, recognizing her leadership of high-touch, wraparound student support programs. Apart from Armenta-Jimenez, these roles represent reclassifications of internal talent rather than new hires, underscoring Heritage’s commitment to recognizing and elevating its own leaders.

Dr. Gilmer has also launched a national search for a new Vice President for Academic Affairs, signaling a renewed emphasis on academic innovation and excellence. He has also expanded the senior leadership team to include a student voice for the first time, appointing Student Government Association President Mercedes Garcia to the president’s leadership table. “Having students help shape decisions that affect their lives and learning is essential to who we are as an institution,” Gilmer said.

Dr. Gilmer also shared an update regarding the future of Heritage University’s Tri-Cities operations. Beginning in January 2026, these operations will report directly to the President as the University advances a new leadership model and develops an expanded investment plan for the region. This approach reflects an enhanced dedication to the Tri-Cities and a strategic focus on growth, innovation, and long-term impact. “This is a commitment to growth and new direction,” Gilmer emphasized.

In addition to leadership changes, the university has launched a $1 million fundraising campaign to eliminate hunger on campus, addressing food insecurity as a critical barrier to student success. “No student should ever have to choose between their education and their next meal,” said Gilmer.

Looking ahead to Heritage University’s 50th anniversary in 2033, Dr. Gilmer’s vision includes assertive fundraising, expanded academic programs, deeper community engagement, and building a national reputation that reflects “the excellence Heritage already demonstrates every day.”

“Heritage University has a powerful mission and a remarkable community,” Gilmer said, “We are investing boldly in our future—our students, our people, and our partnerships.”

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 protects students from state financial aid reductions

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Heritage University protects students from state financial aid reductions

Toppenish, Wash. – Heritage University announced today that it will fully protect students from the State of Washington’s planned reduction to the Washington College Grant (WCG), ensuring no decrease in student financial aid for the 2026–2027 academic year.

The Heritage University Board of Directors has approved the use of university reserve funds to completely replace the state’s anticipated cut to the WCG. As a result, students’ total financial aid packages will remain whole—assuming their Student Aid Index stays the same. When 2026–2027 financial aid award letters are issued, students will see an increase in university-provided funding (HU Excellence), which will directly offset the state reduction.

“We want all our students, present and future, to know that they won’t be impacted by the reduction of the Washington College Grant in the coming year,” said Heritage University President Dr. Chris Gilmer. “We are committed to ensuring that no student loses support because of a state budget decision. Keeping education accessible is at the core of who we are.”

Dr. Gilmer says Heritage University administrators are actively engaging with Washington Governor Bob Ferguson’s office and state lawmakers to advocate for the full restoration of the WCG. The university is hopeful the Legislature will reverse the planned cut during the upcoming legislative session. Administrators will continue to keep students informed as developments occur. “The Yakama Nation Tribal Council is fully supporting our advocacy of the WCG, and I am grateful for the council’s solidarity on this matter,” said Dr. Gilmer.

“Heritage exists to open doors, not close them,” said Vice President of External Affairs David Wise. “We will always advocate for our students and take every step possible to ensure nothing stands in the way of their education.”

Students with questions about their financial aid are encouraged to contact the Heritage University Financial Aid Office, where staff are ready and available to assist. 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 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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Heritage University’s Bounty of the Valley Dinner Raises Record $1.29 Million for Student Scholarships

A group of people holding up signs

Students reveal the amount raised during the 39th Annual Bounty of the Valley Scholarship Dinner on June 7, 2025 at Heritage University.

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Heritage University’s Bounty of the Valley Dinner Raises Record $1.29 Million for Student Scholarships

Toppenish, Wash.— Heritage University proudly announces that its 39th Annual Bounty of the Valley Scholarship Dinner raised a record-breaking $1,297,744 this past weekend, marking only the second time in the event’s history that it has surpassed the $1 million milestone.

For the first time since its inception, the event was held simultaneously at two locations—on the university’s campus in Toppenish, Washington, and at Aerlume Restaurant in Seattle. Three hundred guess between the two venues celebrated the university’s mission and honored the students whose lives are transformed by scholarship support.

In Toppenish, Heritage alumni Alex Vera and Brenda Castaneda served as co-emcees, while fellow alum Gerardo Ruelas and Rueben Mayes, former WSU and NFL football standout, co-hosted the program in Seattle.

A highlight of the evening was the appearance of all four of Heritage’s presidents—Founding President Sister Kathleen Ross, SNJM, Second President John Bassett, current President Andrew Sund, and incoming President Christopher Gilmer—who collectively celebrated the university’s enduring mission and remarkable growth. This year also marked the fourth consecutive year the program was live-streamed, allowing a broader audience to join in the celebration online.

Student speaker Elsie Blackwolf, a junior double majoring in American Indian Studies and Social Work, shared her powerful story of how scholarships have enabled her to pursue higher education. She spoke of her deep commitment to the Yakama Nation and her plans to return and serve her community after graduation. The event also featured a heartfelt video of three graduating seniors reflecting on their academic journeys and expressing gratitude to donors.

Since its founding, the Bounty of the Valley Scholarship Dinner has raised more than $11.6 million for student scholarships. Heritage University extends heartfelt thanks to the donors and sponsors whose generosity continues to change lives.

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Heritage University fundraiser to feature presidential reunion and sneak peek at new Adelante STEM Center

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Heritage University fundraiser to feature presidential reunion and sneak peek at new Adelante STEM Center

Toppenish, Wash. – Heritage University will host its 39th Annual Bounty of the Valley Scholarship Dinner on Saturday, June 7, 2025, bringing together its past, present, and future presidents for a celebration of student achievement, community, and innovation. The university’s premier fundraising event for student scholarships will also include an exclusive preview of the new Adelante STEM Center, located in the Kathleen Ross, SNJM Center.

This year’s event marks a historic occasion as all four university presidents—Founding President Kathleen Ross, SNJM, Second President John Bassett, current President Andrew Sund, and incoming President Christopher Gilmer—will come together to celebrate Heritage’s mission and continued growth.

Guests will enjoy an evening of fine dining and entertainment, including hors d’oeuvres, artisan cuisine, exquisite desserts, fine wines, and craft beer, served throughout various locations on the Heritage University campus. Doors open at 4:30 p.m., and tickets are $200 per person.

The evening will also feature inspiring stories from current students, as well as cultural performances from a mariachi band and a Native American drum group, honoring the rich heritage of the Yakima Valley community.

For those unable to attend in person, the Scholarship Dinner will be live streamed on the university’s website, ensuring everyone can support student scholarships and be part of this special evening.

For ticket purchases, live stream access, and additional event details, visit: Heritage.edu/Bounty. For more information, contact Davidson Mance at (509) 969-6084 or Mance_D@heritage.edu.

 

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Heritage University to hold Class of 2025 Commencement at Yakima Valley SunDome

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Heritage University to hold Class of 2025 Commencement at Yakima Valley SunDome

Yakima, Wash. – Heritage University will celebrate the Class of 2025 at Commencement on Saturday, May 10, at 10:00 a.m. at the Yakima Valley SunDome. Undergraduate and graduate degrees will be conferred upon students graduating from the Heritage Toppenish campus and the Tri-Cities regional site. Overall, 181 students earned their degrees at Heritage this year.

JoDe Goudy, who is a deeply rooted Yakama leader, visionary, and advocate dedicated to preserving and advancing his Native culture, the environment, and future generations, will present this year’s commencement address. He is the owner and founder of Redthought, a Native-owned organization committed to fostering respectful relationships with Mother Earth and ensuring a sustainable future for all generations.

A former Chairman of the Yakama Tribal Council, Mr. Goudy has an extensive history of service to his people, having shaped and led initiatives to address crucial social, cultural, and environmental issues. Currently, he serves as the Vice-Chairman of Se’Si’le, a non-profit organization focused on protecting the rights and ways of life of Native nations. Goudy’s professional journey includes significant work in both the corporate world and the realm of Native leadership. His life’s work has been dedicated to advocating for the rights and dignity of Indigenous peoples, including challenging the Doctrine of Christian Discovery through legal and diplomatic channels, from the Yakama Nation to the Vatican. His work with Redthought is driven by a desire to bring clarity and coherence to the global conversation on sustainability, justice, and the respect for traditional ways of life. Through his experiences, Goudy has fostered a deep understanding of identity, reality, and the interconnectedness of all people and the environment. His personal reflections and advocacy are centered around powerful questions: Who am I? Where do I come from? Where am I going? What is? What isn’t? Why? These questions guide his efforts to unite diverse communities in creating meaningful change.|

Heritage University will present the 2024 Violet Lumley Rau Outstanding Alumnus Award to Maria Zavic Batarao. Batarao currently serves as the Executive Director of Instructional Technology and Assessment at the Wapato School District, where her leadership has been instrumental in improving educational systems and student outcomes. Her career in education is as diverse as it is inspiring, beginning as a classroom teacher, evolving into a Reading Coach, and later becoming the pioneering principal of Simcoe Elementary School before settling into her current position. Her journey reflects a deep and enduring dedication to serving the students and families of her community.

Batarao’s impact extends far beyond the classroom. She serves as the advisor for the Filipino American Community of the Yakima Valley’s Batang Wapato Youth Group, using the performing arts to help young people explore and celebrate their cultural heritage. Her work ensures that Filipino traditions are honored and passed down, creating a bridge between generations and cultures. She is a respected educational leader and a compassionate and selfless community advocate. Her humility, kindness, and genuine care for others have earned her the admiration of colleagues, students, and families alike. She exemplifies the spirit of service and leadership that defines Heritage University alumni.

The Yakima Valley SunDome is located at 1301 South Fair Ave. in Yakima. Parking is free. Additional information is available online at https://heritage.edu/commencement. For more information, contact Davidson Mance, media relations coordinator at (509) 969-6084 or Mance_D@Heritage.edu.

 

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