Thursday, February 12, 2026
28.0°F

Governor appoints McDonnell to BBCC board

STAFF REPORT | Hagadone News Network | UPDATED 3 weeks, 5 days AGO
by STAFF REPORT
| January 17, 2026 3:55 AM

MOSES LAKE — Washington Governor Bob Ferguson has confirmed that Sarah McDonnell has been appointed to the Big Bend Community College Board of Trustees. She replaces former Trustee Anna Franz who served on the board since 2012. 

“Big Bend Community College plays a critical role in empowering families and contributing to the long-term economic vitality of Grant County,” McDonnell said. “I am honored to be joining their Board of Trustees, and I look forward to working with educators and community partners in support of their mission.” 

McDonnell is the Program Administrator and Director of the Non-Profit Insurance Program with Clear Risk Solutions, where she worked in various roles since 2009. She is a proud graduate of Big Bend Community College and The University of New Mexico where she earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Biology.  

McDonnell lives in Ephrata, WA where she has served as a member of the city council from 2019-2025. She is also a past member of the Grant County Economic Development Council Board of Directors. McDonnell has a passion for "access to education for all" and is looking forward to the opportunity to serve BBCC. 

“Higher education is a catalyst for opportunity and a path for individuals of all backgrounds and ages to unlock their personal potential,” McDonnell added. “I am committed to supporting BBCC’s mission and together, we can inspire every learner to see what’s possible for their future by strengthening and expanding access and success in BBCC’s learning opportunities." 

McDonnell will participate in her first meeting Wednesday, Jan. 22. 


ARTICLES BY STAFF REPORT

MLFD tackles structure fire on Rose Ave.
February 12, 2026 4:34 p.m.

MLFD tackles structure fire on Rose Ave.

MOSES LAKE — At approximately 2 p.m. Thursday, the Moses Lake Fire Department responded to a report of a structure fire in the 1000 block of Rose Avenue. Upon arrival, crews observed light smoke coming from a detached garage on the property.

Dent adjusts legislative schedule after family emergency
February 12, 2026 3:26 p.m.

Dent adjusts legislative schedule after family emergency

MOSES LAKE — State Rep. Tom Dent, R‑Moses Lake, is cutting back his in‑person participation in the 2026 legislative session after his wife, Dayna, had a medical emergency.

NIC special meeting tonight
February 9, 2026 1:07 a.m.

NIC special meeting tonight

Three years after North Idaho College received a show-cause sanction from the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities, the community will learn once and for all whether NIC will retain accreditation.