Yingfah Thao has over 20 years of experience in higher education in a variety of roles focused on access and opportunity for low-income, marginalized communities. She is currently the director of professional development for career and technical education for Minnesota State Colleges and Universities, the third largest system of colleges and universities in the United States. She earned a bachelor’s degree in international relations with a minor in ethnic studies from Minnesota State University, Mankato, a master’s degree in technical communication, and a graduate certification in user experience (UX) design from Metropolitan State University.