A Burien-based economic development leader with deep ties to South King County has been appointed to help guide one of the region’s most diverse colleges, as Gov. Bob Ferguson named Lorraine Chachere to the Highline College Board of Trustees.
Chachere, a Burien resident, will be formally introduced to the Highline College community at the Board of Trustees meeting this Thursday, April 16. The introduction will highlight her professional achievements, commitment to education, and her dedication to community service.
Chachere is the Economic Development Specialist for the City of Burien, which allows her to focus on ways to improve the quality of life for people by expanding their opportunities. She said she would bring that same commitment to Highline as a trustee.
Highline College Interim President Dr. Jamilyn Penn remarked that Chachere’s extensive experience in economic development will be instrumental in cultivating a culture of innovation and progress at Highline.
“Her expertise in advancing economic initiatives and forging collaborative partnerships will greatly benefit both our college community and the broader communities we serve,” Dr. Penn said.
Chachere’s term began March 22, 2026, and as with all community college trustees she was appointed by the state’s governor.
Board of Trustees Chair Sharmila Swenson noted that Chachere’s background reflects a deep understanding of the connections between education, workforce development and community well-being.
“She joins the board at a pivotal moment for Highline College, as we approach Commencement, prepare for our seven-year accreditation review, and step further into our presidential search process,” Swenson said. “Her experience and insight will be invaluable as the board guides the college through this important period of reflection, transition and forward planning.”
Chachere said being a first-generation college graduate inspired her to apply for the trustee role. “I have experienced firsthand how access to education can transform lives and expand economic opportunities.”
“My grandmother came to this country for a better life for our family, and she cleaned houses to earn a living. She helped set my mother up for more opportunities so that I, in turn, could benefit by having more choices for my future with the ability to choose whatever career pathway I wanted,” Chachere said.
Prior to joining the Board of Trustees, Chachere was a panelist at the 2024 and 2025 Leadership Summits at Highline College and attended fundraising events for the Highline College Foundation. She is a member of the Rotary Club of Burien/White Center, has volunteered at the White Center Food Bank, and is also a board trustee for the Highline Schools Foundation.
Additionally, she has danced Mexican ballet folklorico over the years and currently performs with Grupo Cultural Oaxaqueño, which celebrates the rich, vibrant cultural dances and traditions of Oaxaca, Mexico.
Dr. Penn said Chachere’s appointment reflects Highline’s ongoing commitment to diversity, excellence and community engagement.
“I am confident that her leadership on the Board of Trustees will benefit students and the college community at large,” she said.
About Highline College
Founded in 1961 as the first community college in King County, Highline College annually serves approximately 14,000 students. With more than 80 percent students of color, Highline is the most diverse higher education institution in the state. The college offers a wide range of academic transfer, professional-technical education, basic skills and applied bachelor’s degree programs. Alumni include former Seattle Mayor Norm Rice, internationally acclaimed author Ann Rule, entrepreneur Junki Yoshida, Dr. Tom Jackson, former president of Cal-Poly Humboldt and retired Army Lieutenant Colonel and nurse Sandra Cravens Robinson.
