Retired superintendent to lead agency

Ben Soria has found a post-retirement job. He was named Monday morning as director of Northwest Community Action Center, a social services agency affiliated with the Yakima Valley Farm Workers Clinic.

Soria retired earlier this year after nine years as superintendent of the Yakima School District. This fall, he ran unsuccessfully for a seat on the Yakima City Council.

Based in Toppenish, Northwest Community Action Center provides employment and training programs for youth and adults, mentoring and tutoring programs, and case management and referral services. It also maintains a rental assistance and home weatherization program.

As director, Soria will work with various community partners, including other social service agencies, government agencies, businesses and school districts.

The previous director was Rodona Sullivan, who has accepted a new position with the Farm Workers Clinic managing contracts and grants.

Soria, 68, holds a master's degree in education from the University of San Diego.