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California Community College Athletic Association

Karen Lee Yoder selected as new Western State Conference Commissioner

(Courtesy Western State Conference)
(Courtesy Western State Conference)

SANTA MARIA - The Western State Conference (WSC) is proud to announce the appointment of Karen Lee Yoder as its new Commissioner. With over three decades of experience in athletics leadership, education, and advocacy, Yoder brings a championship mindset and a deep commitment to student-athlete success, equity, and inclusion. Yoder's tenure as Commissioner will begin in May 2025. She will also continue to serve as the Director of Athletics and Physical Education at California State University Maritime Academy - a position she has held since July 2020 - overseeing the intercollegiate teams and a diverse program that includes recreation, intramurals, and academic instruction.

"We are excited to welcome Karen Yoder as our new commissioner. She brings a unique perspective to our 3C2A and WSC institutions," shared Chris Cicuto of Glendale. "Her administrative and coaching experiences at the various levels of college competition will bring value to our operations, and her vision is sure to continue moving us forward."

Yoder's distinguished career spans multiple levels of intercollegiate athletics, including roles within the NCAA, NAIA, 3C2A, and CIF. A seasoned educator and former Division I coach, Yoder has held leadership positions at Cal Maritime, UC Davis, UNC Greensboro, Mission College, Diablo Valley College, Napa Valley College, Cal State East Bay (Hayward), West Valley College, and Calistoga Joint Unified School District while consistently championing student-centered programs and inclusive environments. Her leadership philosophy is grounded in core values such as academic success, ethical integrity, and equitable opportunities for all.

Before embarking on her coaching and administrative career as a student-athlete, Yoder earned All-American and CCCAA Nor Cal Catcher of the Year honors at West Valley College before earning a full scholarship to continue her softball career at The University of New Mexico. Yoder played professional softball for two years with the Women's Professional Fastpitch League as a member of the Georgia Pride and the Durham Dragons. In addition to the CSU East Bay Pioneers Hall of Fame induction in 2024, Live Oak High School recognized Yoder for her outstanding achievements as a three-sport scholar athlete in field hockey, soccer, and softball by inducting her into its Hall of Fame in 2015.

"Accepting the role of Western State Conference Commissioner is an opportunity to serve the member colleges through collaboration, promote leadership development, and enhance the student-athlete experience," Yoder shared. "We will build a conference that thrives on mutual respect, fosters personal and athletic growth, and remains steadfast in our commitment to equity and inclusion for all."

As Commissioner, Yoder envisions the WSC as a place "where champions come to lead"—fostering a conference culture that promotes collaboration, excellence, and empowerment. Her strategic vision emphasizes leadership development, diversity, and a unified commitment to the growth and achievement of all member institutions."

With a master's degree in Kinesiology, multiple Title IX certifications, and a passion for holistic student-athlete development, Yoder is poised to lead the WSC into its next era of success.

(Shelby Scott, Western State Conference)