News Release for Immediate Release
BREMERTON, Wash. – Olympic College welcomes Kitsap County Commissioner Christine Rolfes to its Board of Trustees. Rolfes was appointed by the Washington State Governor’s Office on Sept. 9, 2025, to fill the unexpired term of former Trustee Cheryl Miller, who resigned in July after seven years of distinguished service.
Rolfes brings more than two decades of public service experience to the board, including her current role as Kitsap County Commissioner and her 17-year tenure in the Washington State Legislature. She is widely respected across the state for her leadership in education, the environment and economic development.
“Olympic College is a key pillar of our community, providing access, opportunity and a path forward for thousands of students every year,” said Commissioner Rolfes. “I’m honored to support the college’s mission and to contribute in any way I can to its continued success.”
Rolfes’ personal connection to the college underscores the many ways Olympic College serves the community.
“Years ago, I enrolled in a Spanish course at OC,” she recalled. “Even one class can make a difference just as it did for me.”
Whether it’s a single course needed to fulfill a university requirement, a short-term certificate to upskill for a new career, or an associate or bachelor’s degree, Olympic College offers pathways for every learner.
Interim President Joan Hanten praised Rolfes’ appointment as a significant win for the college.
“Commissioner Rolfes has dedicated her career to public service, and we’re fortunate to gain the insight and experience she brings,” Hanten said. “We also extend our sincere gratitude to Trustee Cheryl Miller for her years of commitment and leadership on the Board. Her service helped guide the college through a time of tremendous challenge during the COVID-19 pandemic and the transformative growth we are now experiencing as we expand our offerings in healthcare and other community-driven areas.”
Olympic College is nearing completion of the first phase of a planned healthcare expansion at its Poulsbo Campus. This fall, the college will launch its first cohort of students in Diagnostic Medical Sonography, Radiologic Technology and Surgical Technologist. The college is also launching a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science program at its Bremerton Campus.
Rolfes will serve through the remainder of the current term, which expires in Sept. 2026.
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About Olympic College
You’re on a journey and Olympic College will help you reach your destination. Leading-edge programs. World-class facilities. Small class sizes. Professors who know you by name. A welcoming community. We offer all of this and more at a fraction of the cost of universities. Your first stop is the Olympic College Welcome Center, where you’ll receive one-on-one help with every step in the admissions process. Start your journey at Olympic.edu.
