Spokane Colleges Foundation is honored to announce Paul Read as the recipient of the 2026 Distinguished Alumni Award, recognizing his exceptional career and contributions to the Spokane community. Paul was officially recognized at the Foundation’s annual event, Sasquatch Soirée, hosted on April 17^th.
 
“We have so many incredible alumni who have greatly impacted the Spokane community and I’m very excited to honor Paul,” said Heather Beebe-Stevens, Spokane Colleges Foundation executive director.
 
Paul Read is a Spokane Colleges alum and publisher of the Journal of Business in Spokane and the Tri-Cities Area Journal of Business. Paul received a degree in Photography from Spokane Falls Community College, and a bachelor’s degree in journalism from Eastern Washington University.
 
While enrolled at SFCC, Paul served as editor of the student newspaper, The Communicator — ­an experience that helped lead to a 42-year career in the newspaper business. In addition to his publishing work, Paul supports the Spokane community by serving on several local boards.
 
Nominees for the award must have attended SCC or SFCC for one (1) year and made notable service contributions locally, nationally or internationally or have shown long-standing and continued support of Spokane Colleges and the Foundation’s missions.

Congratulations, Paul!