Kelsey E. Knowles

Kelsey E. Knowles is a second year Master in Public Administration candidate in the Evans School of Public Affairs at the University of Washington. During her first year, she represented the Evans School as a Senator to the Graduate and Professional Student Senate (GPSS) and served as an officer for the Evans Student Organization.

Most recently, Ms. Knowles worked as the program coordinator for the NEW (National Education for Women's) Leadership Puget Sound, run by the UW Women's Center. NEW Leadership seeks to develop the leadership of undergraduate women in the Puget Sound area and engage and connect them into politics, civic engagement, and the non-profit sector.

Prior to returning to the University of Washington for her graduate work, Kelsey spent five years in Washington, D.C. working for members of the Washington State Congressional delegation. From 2005 to 2007, she worked in the office of U.S. Senator Patty Murray, and from 2007 to 2010 she served as a legislative assistant to U.S. Representative Adam Smith. During that time, Kelsey advised Congressman Smith on economic, education, and energy issues.

Kelsey was born and raised in the Puget Sound area and completed her B.A. in political science from the University of Washington in 2005. During her time as an undergraduate, she was active in the Associated Students of the University of Washington and served as president in 2004-2005.

• Appointed by Governor Christine Gregoire from July 5, 2011 to June 30, 2012
• Awaiting Senate Confirmation