MOUNT VERNON, Wash. — The Skagit Valley College (SVC) Board of Trustees has selected Dr. Thomas A. Broxson as the college's next president following an extensive nationwide search. The appointment was announced during a special meeting of the Board of Trustees on Tuesday, Nov. 3.
Following a comprehensive selection process, the board voted unanimously to appoint Broxson, who will assume the presidency on Jan. 1. His contract extends through June 30, 2030, with an annual salary of $295,000.
The presidential search was conducted with the assistance of RH Perry, a national executive search firm specializing in higher education leadership.
The search process included opportunities for students, faculty, staff, and community members to participate in forums, provide feedback, and share their perspectives on the college's future leadership. SVC extends its sincere appreciation to everyone who contributed their time and thoughtful input throughout the process.
"We are excited to welcome Dr. Broxson as the next president of Skagit Valley College," said SVC Board of Trustees Chair Flora Perez-Lucatero. "His extensive experience in Washington's community and technical college system, collaborative leadership approach, and commitment to student success make him an outstanding choice to lead SVC into its next chapter. We are confident his leadership will build on the college's strengths, support our students and employees, and advance our mission of providing accessible, high-quality education to the communities we serve."
Broxson brings more than 30 years of experience in higher education, including more than two decades in Washington's community and technical college system. He currently serves as vice president for instruction and chief academic officer at Clover Park Technical College in Lakewood, Washington, a position he has held since 2020.
At Clover Park, Broxson oversees 44 academic and workforce programs across seven instructional divisions, three locations, and the college's career and technical high school. His leadership has focused on strengthening institutional effectiveness, expanding educational opportunities, supporting faculty development, and advancing student success through data-informed decision-making and collaborative governance.
Prior to joining Clover Park Technical College, Broxson held several leadership positions at Pierce College, including tenured faculty member, division chair, and founding district dean of the Math and Science Division. He is also an Achieving the Dream Leadership Coach and was selected as a 2024–25 Aspen Rising Presidents Fellow, a prestigious national leadership development program for emerging community college presidents.
“I am honored and excited to join Skagit Valley College at such a meaningful time in its history,” said Broxson. “What stands out to me is the extraordinary work already happening across the college and the dedication of the people who make it possible. SVC is creating meaningful opportunities, changing lives, and making a lasting impact in the communities it serves. I look forward to working alongside students, faculty, staff, and community partners to build on this incredible momentum and shape an exciting future together.”
Broxson holds a Doctor of Education in Higher Education Leadership from Oregon State University, a Master of Arts in Human and Physical Geography from California State University, Fullerton, and a Bachelor of Arts in History with a minor in Geography from California State University, Fullerton.
Broxson will succeed Interim President Dr. Thomas Keegan, who returned to lead SVC in February 2026 after previously serving as president from 2012 to 2022. Keegan's return provided continuity and experienced leadership during an important period of transition for the college.
His appointment comes as SVC celebrates its centennial anniversary, marking 100 years of providing educational opportunities and serving communities throughout Skagit, Island, and San Juan counties.
For more information, visit skagit.edu/presidential-search.
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