The Wenatchee Valley College Foundation Board of Directors has selected Livia Millard as the 2026 Distinguished Alumni Award recipient. Millard transferred from WVC to Eastern Washington University in 1976, where she obtained a bachelor’s degree in education. Now, she works as substitute teacher at Paschal Sherman Indian School and is a chairperson of the WVC Omak Foundation. 

“As a first-generation college student, I had to trust myself and use my strength, determination and commitment to make it happen,” she said. “I also believe in encouraging and helping others in reaching their potential while on their journey. We do this not only for ourselves but for our family and our community. Grow into who you’re supposed to be, shine your light, and be the change for the next generation.” 

A nominating colleague wrote that Millard works closely with WVC Omak’s student senate group, helping to mentor their leaders and brainstorm events.  

Livia Millard holds her WVC Foundation Distinguished Alumni Award plaque."Livia is one of the brightest lights in our community,” said WVC Omak Dean, Cal Cross. “She is a respected Tribal Elder, a philanthropist, a trusted advisor, and a cornerstone of the community both on the Colville Reservation and in the greater Okanogan County area. Livia has a heart for service, and her dedication to the mission and success of Wenatchee Valley College is every bit as strong as her commitment to our broader community.” 

Additionally, Millard is a board member for the Indigenous Roots and Reparation Foundation, and serves on the Omak Performing Arts Center board, as well as the Nature Immersion board. 

The WVC Distinguished Alumni Award began in 1975 to recognize alumni who have made an indelible mark in their chosen professional field; made significant contributions to their community on a local, state, national or international level; and have demonstrated integrity in their personal life and gained the respect of their peers. Recent recipients include WVC director of counseling Bertha Sanchez (2025), social worker Ricardo Escobedo (2024), entrepreneur Dennis Carlton (2023), community volunteer Darrel Dickenson (2022), and Eastmont educator Jaime Ramirez (2020). 

The WVC Foundation was incorporated in 1971. The foundation’s mission is to provide equitable access to education and invest in student success through philanthropy. For information on how to make a gift to the foundation, establish a scholarship or include the WVC Foundation in your estate plans, contact (509) 682-6410. Visit the WVC Foundation website at http://www.wvc.edu/foundation. 

 Wenatchee Valley College is committed to a policy of equal opportunity in employment and student enrollment. All programs are free from discrimination and harassment against any person because of race, creed, color, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, the presence of any sensory, mental, or physical disability, or the use of a service animal by a person with a disability, age, parental status or families with children, marital status, religion, genetic information, honorably discharged veteran or military status or any other prohibited basis per RCW 49.60.030, 040 and other federal and state laws and regulations, or participation in the complaint process. 

The following persons have been designated to handle inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policies and Title IX compliance for both the Wenatchee and Omak campuses: 

  • To report discrimination or harassment: Title IX Coordinator, Human Resources, Wenatchi Hall 2322M, (509) 682-6445, title9@wvc.edu. 
  • To request disability accommodations: Student Access Manager, Wenatchi Hall 2133, (509) 682-6854, TTY/TTD: dial 711, sas@wvc.edu. 

Published May 8, 2026

Media Contacts: 
Lupe Brito, WVC Foundation development director 509-682-6573  
Clint Strand, WVC Foundation executive director, 509-682-6415