By Sandra Haynes and Rebekah S. Woods

Higher education doesn’t just change individual lives, it powers entire communities. In the Tri-Cities, Washington State University Tri-Cities and Columbia Basin College (CBC) are doing exactly that: serving as engines of opportunity that fuel financial success, workforce development, and long-term economic growth.

Our institutions are proud to serve students from all backgrounds, especially those who are the first in their families to pursue a college degree. Nearly half of our students are first-generation. Through support programs targeted toward assisting these students, we’re not only helping students get into college—we’re helping them thrive. And when students succeed, the Tri-Cities prospers.

We’ve built pathways that keep talent local and build strong connections between institutions. Take the Bridges program, a joint initiative that allows CBC students to transfer seamlessly to WSU Tri-Cities. Roughly 35% of CBC students choose to complete their four-year degrees here in the region. That’s a win for students, families, and employers.

Workforce development is a core part of our mission. We work closely with local industries—from healthcare and tech to agriculture and energy—to make sure our programs match the skills employers actually need.

And it’s not just about training for jobs, it’s about shaping leaders. We prioritize experiential learning through hands-on projects, community engagement, and community partnerships that help students grow into active, informed citizens. One standout initiative is our international exchange with Higashi Nippon International University and the National Institute of Technology Fukushima College. This program brings Japanese and Tri-Cities students together to study nuclear history, economic development, and environmental restoration—issues that unite our regions and demand global thinking.

Talent retention is perhaps our most meaningful impact. Many of our students are place-bound. By offering high-quality education and strong career pathways right here at home, we ensure they stay and contribute to the region’s prosperity. In fact, over 80% of CBC graduates remain in the community. That translated into a $327.7 million net economic impact in just one year. As employers ourselves, together, WSU Tri-Cities and CBC employ more than 850 faculty and staff who live, work, and invest in the Tri-Cities. As you can see, the impact of our institutions extends far beyond the classroom.

As a member of the Coalition of Urban and Metropolitan Universities, WSU Tri-Cities is part of an organization that is dedicated to connecting urban and metropolitan universities and enhancing the role of universities in the development of major metropolitan areas and the education of their residents. Together, CBC and WSU Tri-Cities are delivering on that promise by educating students, serving the public, and strengthening the economy.

The Tri-Cities is growing, evolving, and diversifying its economic structure. We’re proud to play a key role in shaping its future. Through strong partnerships, shared vision, and a deep commitment to student success, we will continue to serve as engines of opportunity for our region.

Sandra Haynes is Chancellor of Washington State University Tri-Cities. Rebekah S. Woods is President of Columbia Basin College.