A Graduation Tradition: Gonfalonieres and Guardians of the Gonfalons

Portrait: Geoff Balkman

Geoff Balkman, ’21, PhD, Rehabilitation Science, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine

My hometown is Issaquah, Washington. After working as a clinician in the field of prosthetics and orthotics, I was inspired to pursue research aimed at improving patient care. I chose UW for its distinguished research program and faculty.

While at UW, I assisted with one of the largest prosthetics research studies to-date by traveling around the country to collect data. I also helped initiate the development of a clinical assessment tool that has received over $1M in funding.

I would like to thank my mentor, Dr. Hafner, my committee members and instructors for their encouragement and guidance. Special thanks to Akasha, for your unconditional love and support, and my kids Aspen, Camden, Madison and Carson, for cheering me on!

Advice from the Graduate School that resonated with me: Make room for failure and pick yourself back up. Keep track of your milestones—even the small ones.

Lupita Santillan, ’21, School Psychology

I grew up in Hood River, Oregon and I choose UW because of the research opportunities, faculty and beautiful location. I chose the field of school psychology because I am passionate about advocating and implementing practices to support children socially, academically and psychologically.

While at UW, I have had the opportunity to participate in wonderful practicum experiences that allowed me to engage in multiple community settings and be involved in different research projects.

Thanks to my family who has always been there for me, especially my parents who have worked so hard so that all of their children had more opportunities then they did—muchas gracias. Thank you to my advisor, Dr. Janine Jones, for her mentorship, support and endless encouragement.

Polo DeCano ’02, Ed.S. ’14, Ed.D. ’18, School Psychology

I’m an educator in spaces of equity, education, leadership and athletics.

Contributing to the resilience and wellness of the UW community are standout memories for me. I created and taught a resilience course for undergraduates, was a founding affiliate of the UW Resilience Lab and teach a team and athlete wellness course for the Intercollegiate Athletic Leadership M.A. program. I am humbled and proud to have been chosen as a member of the inaugural Husky 100 cohort.

To the Class of 2021: Adapt and persevere and you will thrive. Pursue goals that are informed by and align with your values to live a life fulfilled; Attend to what you have, not what you don’t have. Define success by effort and self-improvement and cherish healthy relationships.

Anat V. Lubetzky, ’14, Rehabilitation Sciences

I am an assistant professor (associate as of September 2021) of physical therapy at New York University. Next year I will become the director of the Ph. D. program in rehabilitation sciences at NYU Steinhardt. I cannot wait to share with our students the values and so many life lessons I have learned at the UW.

I work to discover how the sensory systems interact to keep us balanced in standing and walking and develop effective interventions to rehabilitate deficits in sensory integration for balance.

Huskies fans are the best! I loved how in basketball games we could not sit down until the first huskies’ score. I loved how the Husky Football Stadium was shaking from the audiences’ roars. And I keep having Purple Fridays, every Friday. Go Huskies!

Remember to see the world from someone else’s perspective, it will make you kinder. Challenge yourself, if you’re the smartest person in the room, you’re in the wrong room. Lastly, your incredible accomplishment is also your responsibility and duty to make the world better.

Lindsay Maritza Henderson, ’19, ’21, Doctor of Pharmacy (2021), Ph.D. Pharmaceutics (2019)

I am originally from Fremont, California. I decided to pursue a Pharm.D./Ph.D. at UW, one of the few universities offering this unique program. I knew UW would prepare me for a career combining my passion for pharmaceutical research with my desire to improve patient care.

During my time at UW, I worked as a pharmacy intern at Bartell Drugs and was involved with the American Society for Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics. I am the Drug Metabolism and Disposition Division’s Student Representative currently, and previously served as the Junior Communications Officer.

I would like to thank Ken Thummel, my Ph.D. advisor, for his sound scientific advice and unwavering support over the years. I also appreciate the supportive environment cultivated by the UW School of Pharmacy’s faculty, staff and students, which helped me grow as a researcher.

Advice to incoming students: An exciting journey lies ahead. Take advantage of opportunities available to you and don’t be afraid to take on new challenges. Remember to celebrate your accomplishments and take time for yourself—the Pacific Northwest has lots to offer during your time here!

Cyrus Khojasteh, ’98, Medicinal Chemistry

I’m a senior director and principal scientist at Genentech.

I remember Sid Nelson’s 50th birthday, when we ended up in the lab with several champagne bottles (Perhaps safety regulations were a little loose then). One of corks hit the ceiling and left a good size mark. Last I checked, the mark is still there from mid-90s.

To the Class of 2021: The highest accomplishment is supporting others to develop and grow and become the best version of themselves. Be proud of what you have learned, and never stop learning. Be proud of your heritage. Connect with others who are not like you, and give back!

Kedi Yan, ’21, Electrical Engineering

I am from China and grew up in Henan—a province that records thousands of years of Chinese history. I have a dream of using innovative wireless technology to benefit our lives. Professor Joshua Smith’s group is certainly one of the best worldwide in this field.

Extracurricular-wise, making a lot of friends with different cultural backgrounds through FIUTS was my biggest accomplishment at UW. Academic-wise, being able to pursue the Ph.D. and continue following Professor Joshua Smith and collaborating with lovely lab mates were my biggest accomplishments.

Thanks to Professor Joshua Smith for enriching my research experiences. Thanks to Mrs. May Lim for trusting and mentoring me in academia. I admire their selfless work attitude and look up to their amiable personality. Thanks to FIUTS for providing such an unparalleled cross-cultural platform.

Advice for incoming students: While young and ignorant, enrich yourself. Dedicate yourself to communities or even society and ask for nothing in return. While wealthy and erudite, help and educate others, and remember to be humble and learn from others regardless of their age, status, or identity.

Maya Esquivido, ’21, Administration and Public Policy Concentration (SW); Graduate Certificate in American Indian and Indigenous Studies

I was raised in present day Sacramento, CA and relocated to Seattle, WA eleven years ago. I was compelled to attended the University of Washington as an undergraduate because of the American Indian Studies Program and am now finishing my Master’s Degree in Social Work.

While at UW, I became a McNair Scholar and Husky 100 recipient as an undergraduate. As a graduate student, I co-found the Native Circle Alliance Student Group at the School of Social Work. I also work as a student employee at UW’s Graduate Enrollment Management Services.

I would love to thank my family for all of their support and encouragement, and the AIS department and faculty for their belief in me as a first-generation Native scholar. Lastly, I’d love to thank my chosen family, friends and GEMS team!

My advice to college students is to find your community and to take advantage of the events held on campus. Make connections to faculty—they will help guide you and digest the complexities of college. Lastly, speak up and remember why you are here.

Eileen Bjorkman, ’79, Computer Science

I was a flight test engineer in the U.S. Air Force. I retired from the Air Force after 30 years and am now at the Air Force Test Center at Edwards Air Force Base, California.

My UW memory: I was riding the bus home from school and debugging a computer program on a big fan-fold sheet printout. The man next to me asked if I would be interested in a job at the UW hospital. It turned into my first job after graduation!

My advice to the Class of 2021 is: Never stop learning! And push yourself out of your comfort zone. I wasn’t at all sure I had what it took to be an Air Force officer and I stayed for 30 years!

Robin Little Wing Sigo, M.S.W. ’06, Clinical & Contextual Practice

I am a Suquamish tribal leader, mental health parity advocate, health researcher and community mental health counselor.

Standout UW memories for me include hearing a classmate on NPR as an expert on canceling student loan debt, cheering a classmate performing burlesque, laughing at the hilarious memes we post and seeing the photos of their children. We are not just a cohort, but a community creating a new world.

To the Class of 2021: Be bold as love. The love that protects fiercely, fights with wisdom, dances with joy, roars with laughter, leads with humility, rests in calm self love, feels all of the moments and smiles at a life well lived. We are the revolution. #BLM #NativeLivesMatter

Jeefchan Chandrasegar, ’21, Juris Doctor (J.D.)

When I visited Washington during undergrad, I was taken aback by the natural beauty. I remember going to UW and looking down Rainier Vista for the first time. I flew in from Toronto a couple of years later.

I’ve spent most of my time away from UW over the past 3 years following COVID-19. I was lucky enough to have a year-and-a-half to make friends and be a student, though. In the pursuit of this J.D., I’ve become a more complete person.

Thank you Rajani Savundranayagam, Chandrasegar Rajaratnam, Marizan Chandrasegar, Joshua Savundranayagam and to all that came before and all who will come after. Thank you to Dean Endter, Prof. Eric Schnapper, Prof. Maureen Howard, Prof. Stacey Lara and Prof. William S. Bailey for many things.

Advice to incoming students: Please enjoy your time at UW. It is a fine school with brilliant people all around.

Judge Lori K. Smith, J.D. ’84, Law

I am a family law court commissioner, superior court judge and judge on the Washington State Court of Appeals. I have served as Unified Family Court Chief Judge, co-chair of the SCJA Juvenile and Family Law Committee, chair of the MJC Education Committee and co-chair of the Tribal State Court Consortium. I am the first African American woman to serve on the appellate court in the state of Washington.

My favorite memory from my time at the UW Law School is working in the Law Clinic. It was very rewarding to be able to use what I learned to help people and some of my co-workers then are now some of my closest friends.

My advice to the Class of 2021: Everything you do is adding to or taking away from your reputation. Have faith in your ability and remember that it often takes a leap of faith to reach your true potential.

Norma Patricia Sanchez Ortiz, ’21, Masters in Public Administration

My hometown is San Salvador, El Salvador. I decided on an MPA to explore strategies on how to achieve wellbeing within your community. My goal has been to create policies that are sensible and responsive to current needs.

My accomplishments while at UW include: Fulbright Scholar, Co-Lead for Partnership for Community & Diversity (PCD), Board member on Evans International Students Association (EISA), Evans Student Ambassador

I would like to thank my family, their unwavering support filled me with motivation to keep growing.

Advice to incoming students: Ground yourself through your core values but learn to grow and adapt as the understanding of your surroundings changes.

Angel Ip, M.P.A. ’11, M.S. ’13, Master of Public Administration; Master of Science in Exposure Science

Brownfields Project Manager, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

At the UW, I was active in student government, serving as secretary and treasurer of the Evans Student Organization. I enjoyed planning events, “Evans Proms”, Silent Auctions, Talent Shows, and group arts encounters, all while building community! Even after graduation, I have helped with planning Class Reunions. I volunteer my time mentoring aspiring professionals interested in public service. I am also committed to ensuring that the environmental field is more diverse and inclusive.

To the Class of 2021: You have shown much strength, resilience and perseverance. Keep learning, asking questions and imagining. Stay true and be kind to yourselves and to others. Build community. Laugh, have fun and enjoy the journey! Congratulations!

Gargi Kher, ’21, Applied Mathematics and Biochemistry

My hometown is Bellevue, WA. I chose to go to UW because of the opportunities it provides for students to get hands-on experiences and engage with faculty. I knew I would be exposed to a variety of fields and subjects I might not have previously considered.

I was an undergraduate researcher for nearly my entire time at UW and have been part of the university’s Undergraduate Research Leaders team.

I want to thank my friends and family for encouraging my interests, the King Lab in UW’s Biochemistry department for their guidance as I performed research and started thinking about my career, and my Biochemistry and Applied Math advisors for all their support.

To incoming students, I’d say to keep an open mind. Even if you know what you want to do now, you might discover new interests if you take advantage of different opportunities. Don’t be afraid of diving into new things!

Anna Lee, ’21, Neuroscience and Dance

Though born in Canada, I grew up in Sammamish, WA. I initially picked UW to study neuroscience, but am so grateful that I also majored in dance and shifted my educational journey to one more focused on interdisciplinary work.

UW accomplishments include: Magna Cum Laude, 2021 Husky 100, 2020 Mary Gates Leadership Scholar, 2020 DSA Scholarship, Camp Kesem Director, AMSA Founding Director, research in the Herr Lab and the Becker Lab, Harborview Job Coach, Phi Beta Kappa, Grey Matters Author, Hip Hop Student Association, Faculty Dance Concert performer, ASACS for Dean Stacey

Thank you to my family for their unconditional support and to my outstanding mentors who have truly made my UW experience unforgettable: Alan Herr, Kelly Canaday, Martha Bosma, Michael Kennedy, Pamela Becker, Tom Freng, and William Moody. You all bring me SO much joy! Hugs!!

To incoming students: Nothing is ever a “have to;” it’s a “get to.” Treat every experience as an opportunity to grow. Say yes to things that scare you (but in moderation) and you will make the most of your beautiful chapter at UW!

Madison McCann, ’21, Scandinavian Area Studies and Mathematics

I grew up in Burien, Washington but went to school on Vashon Island. I chose to study Math and Scandinavian studies as a way to balance my interests in logic and reasoning with culture and societies.

As a UW student I was a resident adviser for two years, and was on the Dean’s List for the majority of my time here.

I would like to thank the Scandinavian Department for being so supportive, especially Lauren Poyer and Kim Kraft. I would also like to thank my Resident Directors, Melinda Gilliam, Arnelle Sambile and Lindsey Sullivan for supporting me and helping me find a career path.

My advice is to take advantage of the resources available to you—including RAs—to take as many classes as you can, and to remember that small failures do not prevent overall success.

Cameron Molyneux, ’21, History

I am originally from the East Bay Area in California. I chose to study history because I’ve always been passionate about the field and because I believe it is crucial for understanding our world—past, present, and future—and for changing it for the better.

I’m very proud of having finished the departmental honors sequence and for having (just barely) produced a thesis to show for it. I’ll also cherish my four years as a volunteer DJ at Rainy Dawg Radio, where I met some of my closest friends!

I’d like to thank my parents and family for their belief in me and for supporting my education. I’d also like to thank the faculty and staff of the Department of History, especially Dr. Jim Gregory, for their generosity of time, knowledge and excellent guidance.

My advice to incoming students would be to keep an open mind. There are so many amazing experiences you can have and communities you can be a part of if you’re willing to try new things and to step out of your comfort zone occasionally.

Micah Enrique Lusignan Santiago, ’21, English/Creative Writing

I was born in La Jolla, California but I was raised all around south King County. UW was my dream since no one from my school ever thought we were smart enough to go.

While at UW, I was a Co-Lead of InterVarsity, an advocate for ADA compliant buildings at UW, and Lead of Social Skills department at Department of Services for The Blind.

I would like to thank PT, who has been a father figure in showing me how to follow Jesus and push through every systemic barrier that has been in my path.

Advice to incoming students: Establish a routine. One credit = approximately three hours of work. Plan your week accordingly so you can work, rest, socialize and have fun.

Emjay Stroming, ’21, Psychology, Gender, Women, and Sexuality Studies (Minor)

I’m from Tukwila, WA, and I chose my fields of study to give a voice to other Queer and under-represented minority groups that struggle seeing themselves and their unique experiences in mental health and psychology research.

My time as an undergraduate TA with Carrie Perrin and Dr. Nancy Kenney helped me realize my passion for helping others learn and grow. Working as a Research Assistant for Tabitha Kirkland in the Psychology Undergraduate Mentoring Program solidified my passion for research and diversity.

I would love to thank my family and friends for always staying by my side, even when it’s been hard to love and support myself. You guys have helped me more than you will ever realize, I cannot thank you enough for just being yourselves.

Advice to incoming students: Take any and every opportunity that you can. You never know where you will end up, and I promise you will meet amazing people along the way. Spread as much love and positivity as you can, and most importantly, don’t forget to love yourself.

David, ’81, and Kacee, ’84, Chandler, Business, Accounting Concentration

We both started their careers at PriceWaterhouseCoopers international CPA firm, where we met. Kacee later joined her largest client, Puget Sound Energy, and worked as a senior consulting analyst and manager of energy analysis. David also joined his largest client and later worked as Chief Financial Officer of several tech and medical device start-ups. We retired three years ago to spend more time together and travel.

Kacee’s favorite UW memory is having an incredible, passionate professor, Bill Ressler. He did not just teach, he encouraged and challenged you. For David, it was the environment of being on an amazing campus after community college, the supportive profs and the interesting and diverse classes.

We love the UW and all it stands for. Our daughter has undergrad and graduate degrees from UW. We are most proud of establishing the first scholarship of its kind for UW Psychology undergrads, the Aric Chandler Memorial Endowed Scholarship, in honor of our son.

To the Class of 2021, we say: Take pride in this tremendous accomplishment, it took a lot of hard work. As you create your career, remember to spend time with people every day. It is the relationships that matter the most and will endure, not just the hard work.

Elizabeth A. DeNoma, ’94, Ph.D. ’00, Scandinavian Languages and Literature

I’m a translator, editor and publishing consultant.

My favorite memories from my time at UW revolve around attending all the remarkable events open to students.

To this year’s grads, my advice is: Don’t hesitate to take advantage of all the opportunities open to alumni.

Patrick Lozar, ’19, History

I’m an assistant professor of history at the University of Victoria.

Serving in the Native Organization of Indigenous Scholars and working with fellow grad students to host the Native and Indigenous Scholarship Symposium were highlights of my time at UW. Playing intramural softball league with friends from the History grad program is also an awesome memory!

To those graduating this year, remember the people along the way who helped you succeed and pay it forward in your careers.

Kelsey Maass, M.S. ’15, Ph.D. ’21, Applied Mathematics

I’m a postdoctoral scholar at the UW Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation.

The Department of Applied Mathematics is known for cutting-edge research, but it’s a little-known fact that the department is also full of talented bakers! Some of my favorite grad school memories were sharing homemade treats at the department’s annual dessert competition and weekly tea times.

Some great advice I’ve received from fellow students: “When you are passionate about what you do, it is easy to wrap your whole identity into succeeding at work. However, your self-worth is not measured by your ability to do mathematics (or whatever your chosen profession).”

Cathy Tang, ’06, Neurobiology

I’m a plastic, reconstructive and hand surgeon at University of California, Irvine

I perform surgeries to reconstruct defects in the body that have been caused by cancer, diseases or trauma. Additionally, being a hand surgeon is the perfect intersection of physics, medicine and dexterity — all subjects and skills that I learned and began honing while at UW.

I spent more nights than I’d care to share in Odegaard, rewatching video lecture tapes, renting out study rooms, binging on free pizza, and lining up the study chairs to create a quick nap bed.

To the Class of 2021: Take your time. You don’t need to rush to have it all figured out. You may never figure it all out. It’s the journey and experiences along the way – make it count and have fun doing it.

Maya Trachtenberg, ’15, English

I’m a fundraiser at the UW College of Education.

I loved participating in the English Honors program my senior year with Professors Gary Handwerk and Carolyn Allen. Our cohort of honors students grew very close and it made our 2015 English commencement feel especially monumental.

First, congratulations! Second, I think the secret weapon of graduating with an English major is the ability to write a succinct and clear email. So my piece of advice is to not take that skill for granted.

Aditi Rajendran, ’21,  Educational Policy, Organizations & Leadership in P-12 Systems

My hometown is Cedar Falls, Iowa. I was drawn to the UW College of Education for its focus on communities, equity, and justice.

My accomplishments while at UW include: UW Presidential Dissertation Award, College of Education Provost Doctoral Scholarship, Gundlach Scholarship in Labor Studies, Harlan Hahn Endowment Fund in Disability Studies, Graduate Academic Student Employee Union Steward, and Students of Color Graduate Peer Mentor.

I would like to thank Appa, Amma and Hari Anna for your endless support, encouragement and patience; all my aunties and uncles who will be happy I’m finally graduating; the Ishimaru advisory crew and my academic family of mentors and role models at UW and beyond; my far-away friends sending memes and answering the phone; and my beloved community of endless love that kept me nourished (body, mind, soul and mostly belly) and made this place home.

My advice to incoming students is to find your people; we make it through together.

Monica Nixon, Ed.D. ’13, Education Leadership and Policy Studies

My vocation focuses on student success, access, and equity in higher education. For 25 years I worked in student affairs and as chief diversity and inclusion officer, and now I serve the student affairs non-profit association NASPA as assistant vice president for justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion (incidentally fulfilling a childhood dream of joining the JEDI order).

As a first-gen doctoral student, there was much I didn’t know about navigating graduate school. I’m grateful to the Office of Student Services, the faculty, and peers for helping me course-correct several times — lessons which I then was able to share with newer students.

To the Class of 2021: Anger and frustration have their place in the fight for justice, but without a balance, they eventually burn me out. I have found love, generosity, and joy to be far more sustainable sources of energy for organizing, relationship-building, and the long work of liberatory change.

Alejandro Diaz, ’21, Bioengineering

My hometown is Yakima, Washington. I chose the UW because of its strong bioengineering program and also its academic services for students of color.

My accomplishments while at UW include: College of Engineering Dean’s Medalist, OMAD Presidential Scholar, EPE Instructor Award, Co-chair for Chicanx/Latinx for Community Medicine

I would like to thank my parents for their support during my five years in undergrad. Their emotional support helped me work through difficult times.

My advice to incoming students: Don’t be afraid to share your uncertainties, fears, etc. Engineering is an incredibly difficult major to finish. You will encounter several obstacles that will make you question yourself. Share your feelings with others because you’re not alone on this journey.

Parker Ruth, ’21, Computer Engineering and Bioengineering

I grew up in Bellevue, Washington. I chose to attend UW for its outstanding research opportunities in computing and engineering. I majored in computer engineering and bioengineering to explore the intersection of computing and healthcare.

My research focuses on expanding access to healthcare with mobile applications, wearables and rapid diagnostic tests. Outside of my research, I enjoy supporting other undergraduates’ research experiences as a mentor and through campus student organizations.

Thanks to my many amazing mentors for their inspiration and support. Special thanks to my research advisor Dr. Shwetak Patel and my outstanding colleagues and collaborators. Most of all, thanks to my family, especially my mom, for keeping me grounded and making me smile.

To incoming students, congratulations on joining such an amazing community of scholars! University of Washington faculty, staff and students are on the cutting edge of many world-class research areas. Take advantage of this unique opportunity to contribute to the frontiers of human knowledge!

Eileen Bjorkman, ’79, Computer Science

I was a flight test engineer in the U.S. Air Force. I retired from the Air Force after 30 years and am now at the Air Force Test Center at Edwards Air Force Base, California.

My UW memory: I was riding the bus home from school and debugging a computer program on a big fan-fold sheet printout. The man next to me asked if I would be interested in a job at the UW hospital. It turned into my first job after graduation!

My advice to the Class of 2021 is: Never stop learning! And push yourself out of your comfort zone. I wasn’t at all sure I had what it took to be an Air Force officer and I stayed for 30 years!

Arthur Chan, ’03, Bioengineering

I’m vice president of medical affairs at Tarsus Pharmaceuticals.

I spent many days from sunrise until dark performing research at my lab in the old fisheries building and would sit by the water each day feeling grateful to be in such a beautiful place. It made even the toughest lab days enjoyable!

My UW education really opened doors for me, and enabled me to be successful in my career. I’ve contributed to advancing medical devices and pharmaceuticals, and found a passion for eye care. My family has been an incredible source of support and I’m so thankful.

Graduating is just the beginning of a lifelong learning journey. Stay curious and consider every person you meet an opportunity to learn. Find and keep great mentors, and pay it forward by mentoring others. What’s more important than what you know is who you are.

Esaac Mazengia, ’21, Environmental Science & Terrestrial Resource Management (B.S.)

My hometown is Shoreline, Washington. I chose UW College of the Environment because of the great depth and breadth of the programs and classes on the environment that it offers, the world class faculty, and the opportunities to get engaged with undergraduate research.

My accomplishments while at UW include: UW College of the Environment – 2021 Undergraduate Dean’s Medalist, SEFS Undergrad of the Year 2019-2020, UW Honors Dillman Scholarship, UW Dean’s List, 4-Yr Member of the ASUW Student Senate, Co-Chair of the CoEnv Student Advisory Council, Founder of the CoEnv Interdisciplinary Mentorship Program

I would like to thank my family for always supporting me through my many different activities; my friends for keeping me energized; my professors for keeping me engaged and thinking; and my peers for always pushing me to do my best and make an impact.

My advice to incoming students: Don’t let your perceived limitations be boundaries for what you decide to do. Challenge yourself in and out of the classroom and don’t be afraid of failure because it’s through failure and resurgence that we are able to grow into the fullest version of ourselves.

Isabel Carrera Zamanillo ’17, Environmental Sciences

I work as assistant director for the School of Earth, Energy and Environmental Sciences at Stanford University. My role is to create tools, programs, opportunities and spaces to foster a more inclusive and welcoming environment at the School, where all members can thrive.

My favorite UW memory is walking through the campus, especially in between classes… so lively!

To the Class of 2021: Be open to new opportunities. Sometimes the perfect job can be found in unexpected areas where you can use some learned skills and knowledge, but where you will need to be creative to adapt.

Kiran Pradhan, ’21, Informatics—Data Science, Pre-Medicine

I chose Informatics because of the inclusive and welcoming community and the great opportunities available for undergraduate students, like being a teaching assistant and contributing to major-wide decisions! Informatics also allowed me to explore the intersection of my two passions—medicine and technology.

My most impactful experiences have been giving back to my Informatics community as a mentor, Teaching Assistant, and as President of the Informatics Undergraduate Association. I have grown immensely as a leader, and cannot wait to apply what I’ve learned to my next adventure.

I would like to thank my supportive and loving parents and sister for always cheering me on, my friends for laughing with me throughout college, and my advisors and professors for always asking me the hard but necessary questions.

To incoming Informatics students: Don’t forget that so much learning takes place outside of the classroom—take every opportunity to get involved and try something new! You never know what you’ll learn or discover about yourself.

Akoly Vongdala, ’21, Informatics, Psychology

I immigrated to Kent, Washington from Laos in 2009. Moving from one of the poorest countries to one of the most technologically advanced countries in the world taught me that lack of technology is a big barrier to success and I need to change that.

My accomplishments while at UW include: Washington State Opportunity Scholarship Recipient, Annual Dean’s List Recipient, Women in Informatics Co-President & Hackathon Project Manager, iSchool Undergraduates Teaching Assistant, Department of Psychology Undergraduates Research Assistant, Society of Women Engineers Historian & Social Media Director

I would not be here today without my mom, a single immigrant mom who works 7 days a week to support her 4 kids. I would also like to thank Ellani, Hailey, Keldrick, Maddy and the Klem for always showing up when it counts.

My advice to new students: Use these four amazing years to create and maintain connections that will last your lifetime. I promise you, it’s worth it.

Katie Goulding, ’19, Informatics

I am a technology consultant at Deloitte focused on data privacy and security.

My favorite class was the Intellectual Foundations of Informatics, which introduced me to my best friends to this day and to an inclusive, collaborative and empowering environment to learn about the intersection of humans and technology.

I’m grateful to serve on the Information School Alumni Advisory Board, having an opportunity to give back to the school that fostered my personal and intellectual growth. I continue to drive community social impact initiatives, leading a program that devotes professional resources to local non-profits.

Remember your first job isn’t your last! Keep an open mindset of what you can achieve – the iSchool has prepared you for your next steps (whatever those might be for you) and don’t underestimate the value of the connections you’ve made while at UW!

Kartik Rishi, ’14, Informatics

I am a senior technical program manager at Amazon, specifically working on the key technologies and systems that power the retail business.

I have fond memories of spending all hours of the day (and night) in the iSchool’s TE lab having all kinds of fun, with some schoolwork on the side.

The world is a lot smaller than you think. Always strive to do well, make an impression and pay attention to the details. Some of the best opportunities come from people remembering the good work you’ve done.

Waley Lin ’21, Finance, Information Systems & Sales

I am a proud South Seattle native who has dreamed of donning the purple and gold for as long as I could remember.

UW accomplishments include: President of Ascend, Member of Alpha Kappa Psi, Undergraduate Diversity Services, ASUW Finance and Budgeting, 2020 David and Robin Nelson Endowed Scholarship, ALVA 2019 Cohort.

I would like to thank my mom, my family, the Foster community and my good friend Joe!

Advice for incoming students: Be brave enough to suck at something new. Fail forward. My accomplishments are a result of the lessons I’ve learned after painful failures. At the end of the day, we all live on a floating rock in space. Go out and shoot for the moon!

Jeff Adams, M.B.A. ’04, Business Administration

I’m a Principal, Environmental Engineering at ENGEO Incorporated.

Out of so many great memories as a student and an alumnus, perhaps my favorites were my first UWAA regional events in New York and Washington, D.C. in 2016. They were a great reminder of what an amazing university family we all share.

To the Class of 2021: When you live by serving others, showing empathy, and continuously growing through life-long learning, you will achieve success and become a leader in all that you do. Start down this path by sharing your talents and shining your light upon the world every day.

Liam Malpass, ’21, Doctor of Nursing Practice – Family Nurse Practitioner

I live in Seattle, WA. I chose UW’s DNP program because of its world-renowned reputation for educating and training excellent nurse practitioners.

I am proud to have served as an elected student representative to the Doctor of Nursing Practice Coordinating Committee (DNPCC), volunteered with the SoN to help administer and train health sciences students to give COVID-19 vaccines, and provided mentorship to undergrads and prospective students.

I am immensely thankful to my partner, family, peers and faculty who supported and encouraged me throughout my journey at UW. I am especially thankful for the many wonderful clinical preceptors who, in the midst of a global pandemic, took me under their wings.

Advice to incoming students: Take time to discover your interests and passion during your studies at UW and pursue every opportunity to live these throughout your academic experience.

Madlyn Murrey, M.S.N. ’94, Nursing

I’m a registered nurse, serving as the chief clinical officer and senior vice president at Seattle Children’s Hospital. I am also a UW School of Nursing Distinguished Alumna.

My favorite UW moment: I gave birth to my third son while in the graduate program and the faculty was so accommodating that he was welcomed into class in his little basket at two weeks after birth.

To the Class of 2021: Believe in yourself and speak your truth with confidence and kindness. Remember that we are better together. Seek out colleagues and friends for your journey who will sustain you in the difficult times and bring joy and laughter when times are good.

Kai Braaten, ’21, Medical Laboratory Scientist

My hometown is Seattle! I chose the UW because it offered the best MLS Bachelor’s degree and was able to remain close to friends and family. I chose to return to school after a long career in customer service and MLS was a great fit.

I made Dean’s list every quarter and was a mentor for an incoming junior in the MLS program.

Thanks to my wife, parents and friends for their encouragement and support. I could not have gotten through without them. Grateful for my cohort, always willing to help, and Operation Pitchfork who inspired me to work hard and kept me laughing during the dark times.

Advice to incoming students: Give yourself grace as you go through school. Not every class will be your best and that is okay. Let disappointments be an inspiration to change the way you work, not a reason to quit. Lean on your classmates, they know what you’re going through.

Michie Harris, ’18, Medical Laboratory Science

I am a clinical laboratory scientist.

I am from Okinawa and moved to the U.S. as a military spouse. I left everything behind and decided to start a new career. As a non-native English speaker, I am proud of myself for completing the MLS program and earning the Kathleen Clayson Award.

Our class built a strong bond through schoolwork. The Health Science Library was the best place to be when studying for midterms, finals or doing homework. The HUB Pool Hall was the best place for a break.

Congratulations! Wherever you go and start your new journey (in Washington, outside Washington or even in another country!), always believe in yourself, especially when facing adversity or a new challenge. Treat everyone with respect and dignity, and do not forget to rest and refresh!

Kai Farmer, ’21, Landscape Architecture

My hometown is Mukilteo, WA. I chose UW to stay close to my friends and family while furthering my education. My goal in choosing Landscape Architecture was to take my experience of ecological restoration and landscaping and learn to apply it on a broader scale.

While at UW, I played for the UW ice hockey club team. I also joined the Army National Guard and graduated OCS, commissioning as a 2nd lieutenant.

Thanks to my family, friends, the Landscape Architecture faculty and my cohort, past professors from my undergraduate program, and OCS Class 63 and my National Guard family. Everyone has helped me in some shape or form along the way, and I thank you all dearly for it.

Advice to incoming students: No matter what your goals are, you are not alone. Your colleagues can complement your strengths and bolster your weaknesses. A degree may only have one name on it, but it doesn’t have to be obtained in solitude.

Jenn Low, ’05, Landscape Architecture

I am an integrative designer, educator and landscape architect based out of Washington, D.C. I wear a few hats, including director of communications at the Urban Studio and deputy director of the 1882 Foundation.

My favorite UW memories include a fall quarter in Rome with my classmates and led by Professor David Streatfield. It was magical. That and the few minutes of Zen during my morning shift at the Gould Coffee Shop, reading a copy of The Stranger by the cash register.

To the Class of 2021: Seek out spaces that encourage you to bring your whole self to the work you set out to do. Seek out community that will push you, challenge you and promote your growth.

Shraddha Malla, ’21, Bachelors in Science: Public Health-Global Health

My hometown is Kathmandu, Nepal but I immigrated to Lynnwood, Washington, United States six years ago.

With UW, I have been able to further my educational career as a public health professional. I was able to gain experience as a Work Study Student Assistant with the PNASH Center of UW, exploring ways to keep our Pacific Northwest Agricultural Workers healthy and safe.

I would like to thank the School of Public Health for their continued conversations around racial inequity. I would also like to thank PNASH for believing in me and being my support system while I become the first in my family to seek higher education.

Advice for incoming students: I would like for them to believe in themselves and get out of their comfort zones. Growing only happens when we put ourselves out there and become confident on our skills and trust that we are good enough for all the best things in life.

Susan Colligan, ’86, Environmental Health/Industrial Hygiene

The UW prepared me for a variety of positions, from industrial hygiene and environmental field work assignments, to teaching, education, consulting, and strategy and leadership of diverse teams including safety culture, explosives and toxicology experts.

I remember great times with my graduate school cohort, many of whom I went on to work with through the decades of my career. I also recall study groups in Health Sciences Library, with students at the white board and the Industrial Hygiene “White Whale” textbook — it weighted about 10 pounds!

In retirement, my particular interest is to engage other alums to support students as they navigate post-pandemic times, where public health is the opportunity.

To the Class of 2021: Trust yourself ask the right questions, and remember that the learning doesn’t end with graduation. It really is a marvelous beginning. Enjoy!

Evalynn Fae Taganna Romano, ’21, Social Work, Public Health (Global Health)

I am a daughter of two custodians who dedicated decades of service to UW and I call Seattle home. I chose UW because I was interested in the programs offered by the internationally recognized School of Public Health and School of Social Work.

I was a 3-year Southeast Asia Center FLAS Fellow. I am a founder of the UW Custodian Project (no affiliation to UW), a grassroots effort to fight for workers’ rights. I have been recognized as a Husky 100 and received the Outstanding Student Community Service Award from the School of Public Health.

Gratitude to my parents, Evalina Taganna Romano and Joey Novan Romano, who taught me the value of hard work and compassion. Thanks to all UW custodians and other UW essential workers who have kept our community spaces safe and working throughout the pandemic and beyond.

Future social work students, be curious, push yourself and learn to the fullest at practicum, take advantage of student discounts/scholarships for training opportunities that expand learning outside of the classroom, and slow down to build connections with your cohort.

Robin Little Wing Sigo, M.S.W. ’06, Clinical & Contextual Practice

I am a Suquamish tribal leader, mental health parity advocate, health researcher and community mental health counselor.

Standout UW memories for me include hearing a classmate on NPR as an expert on canceling student loan debt, cheering a classmate performing burlesque, laughing at the hilarious memes we post and seeing the photos of their children. We are not just a cohort, but a community creating a new world.

To the Class of 2021: Be bold as love. The love that protects fiercely, fights with wisdom, dances with joy, roars with laughter, leads with humility, rests in calm self love, feels all of the moments and smiles at a life well lived. We are the revolution. #BLM #NativeLivesMatter