We asked our regional volunteer coordinators for some background information, updates and thoughts about their connection to UW. Read their survey results below and learn more about the Tri-Cities area alumni group.
Karen Sullivan-Schwebke
What are you doing now in the Tri-Cities? I am a self-employed promoter/planner and business owner in Historic Downtown Kennewick. I specialize in antique jewelry and clothing and retro fashion shows. I teach at the local Moo U and other schools in the area about clothing and jewelry history. I am also very involved in the arts scene in the Tri-Cities.
What’s your fondest UW memory? Rush and pledging the best sorority on campus! I have the best memories of walking onto campus via Memorial Way with my sorority sisters, all bundled up in big fall sweaters, and all the beautiful crunchy fall leaves on the ground as we walked toward Denny Hall! Also, I loved every minute of working in the HUB for Panhellenic and student government!
What do you miss most about Seattle? Green, green, green! Also, the art nightlife and the ability to get a great meal after 10 p.m.! I miss all the great friends I made at UW and cherish my limited time with them now. I am hoping my oldest son will be at UW next fall so I can make even more trips to UW.
What made you decide to become a volunteer leader? Because I am tough enough to withstand the Cougar Onslaught here in eastern Washington. I love my university and am SO proud to represent it at different functions around our area. Go Dawgs forever! I try to keep up to date on all UW functions and activities to really rep my school well, as we see so few from the UW here in "person."
What’s your favorite regional event? I love Welcome to Washington. I get so excited to meet the freshmen! I want them all to know what a great honor it is to be at the UW and encourage them to maximize their experience. I love it when kids from the Tri-Cities I have known for years go to UW and pledge a great house and enjoy the best years of their young lives!
What are your future plans for the Tri-Cities group? I am going to put together a Welcome to Washington this summer, even if I have to fund and run it myself. My fall viewing party was well attended, so I will redo this in August. I speak often to high schools and potential students about the UW and its Greek system, which I dearly love.
