Bio

Karen Lee Yoder joined the Western State Conference as the Commissioner in May 2025. 

Yoder joined the WSC with more than three decades of experience in athletics leadership, education, and advocacy with the intention of bringing a championship mindset and a deep commitment to student-athlete success, equity, and inclusion to the league. 

Yoder's distinguished career spans multiple levels of intercollegiate athletics, including roles within the NCAA, NAIA, 3C2A, and CIF. A seasoned educator and former Division I coach, Yoder has held leadership positions at Cal Maritime, UC Davis, UNC Greensboro, Mission College, Diablo Valley College, Napa Valley College, Cal State East Bay (Hayward), West Valley College, and Calistoga Joint Unified School District while consistently championing student-centered programs and inclusive environments. Her leadership philosophy is grounded in core values such as academic success, ethical integrity, and equitable opportunities for all.

Before embarking on her coaching and administrative career as a student-athlete, Yoder earned All-American and CCCAA Nor Cal Catcher of the Year honors at West Valley College before earning a full scholarship to continue her softball career at The University of New Mexico. Yoder played professional softball for two years with the Women's Professional Fastpitch League as a member of the Georgia Pride and the Durham Dragons. In addition to the CSU East Bay Pioneers Hall of Fame induction in 2024, Live Oak High School recognized Yoder for her outstanding achievements as a three-sport scholar athlete in field hockey, soccer, and softball by inducting her into its Hall of Fame in 2015.

As Commissioner, Yoder envisions the WSC as a place "where champions come to lead"—fostering a conference culture that promotes collaboration, excellence, and empowerment. Her strategic vision emphasizes leadership development, diversity, and a unified commitment to the growth and achievement of all member institutions."

With a master's degree in Kinesiology, multiple Title IX certifications, and a passion for holistic student-athlete development, Yoder is poised to lead the WSC into its next era of success.