Napa Valley College Chief Announces Departure

NAPA VALLEY, CA — Torence Powell is stepping down as the superintendent and president of Napa Valley College.

Powell, who has led the college of more than 4,000 students since July 2022, will conclude his tenure at the end of June when his contract expires.

The college's board of trustees, in a statement announcing his departure, praised Powell, saying that during his tenure, he advanced the institution’s mission to transform the lives of the district's students and carried out key priorities.

Napa Valley College opened new student housing and the Wine Spectator Wine Education Complex, expanded partnerships across the Napa community, and launched multiple initiatives aimed at improving success among a rich spectrum of learners with a range of goals. Powell's own biography as first-generation community college student and the first college graduate in his family matches some of the students.

“Dr. Powell’s leadership has been marked by vision, collaboration, and an unwavering commitment to the goals set by the board,” the board's president, Jennifer Baker, said. "Together, we have laid a foundation that will support continued growth and success."

Powell's tenure will end with his contract on June 30. His next post is as chancellor of the Los Rios Community College District, a role that involves broader leadership and oversight of multiple campuses.

“It is a testament to his work that he has been selected to serve as chancellor of a regional community college district educating more than 70,000 students," Baker said.

The board aims to appoint Powell's successor by August.