Administrative/Confidential Employee of the Year
Christopher Farmer
Dean, Science, Mathematics, Engineering, Library and Learning Resources
2025 Administrative/Confidential Employee of the Year
The Administrative/Confidential Employee of the Year award is given to an administrator or confidential staff member who is well-rounded with demonstrated ability to respectively interact with all people, has demonstrated organizational skills, exhibits behavior that positively reflects on the college community, and shows leadership and problem-solving skills.
Chris Farmer has dedicated more than ten years of service to Napa Valley College and currently serves as the Dean of Science, Mathematics, Engineering, and Library Services. Prior to this role, Chris taught Biology as an adjunct instructor, served as a Research Analyst in the Research, Planning, and Institutional Effectiveness Department, and worked as the Director of the Hispanic Serving Institutions grant.
Chris earned a Master of Science degree in biology with a minor in psychology from Texas State University and a Bachelor of Science degree in biology with a minor in computer information systems from University of Tampa.
A thoughtful and forward-thinking leader, Chris has championed key initiatives such as Project RISE, Caminos al Exito, and the implementation of Guided Pathways tools like Program Mapper and Early Alert.
As one colleague shared, “Chris always keeps our students at the forefront of his decision-making while also advocating for and supporting the faculty and staff in his division.”
If there is a new resource available to benefit the college and student success, it’s likely that Chris Farmer is behind it.
Whether guiding departments through complex initiatives or championing access to STEM and library resources, Chris embodies the mission and values of Napa Valley College. We are proud to honor him for his outstanding service and leadership.
PREVIOUS ACOY RECIPIENTS
2024 Imelda Basco
2023 Solange Kada
2022 Robert Harris
2021 Maria Villagomez
2020 Robert Van Der Velde
2019 Howard Willis
2018 Oscar de Haro
2017 Rebecca Gonzalez
2016 Ken Arnold