GOLD Alumni Council

Aram Ambartsumyan, ’16, UW Seattle
Stephanie Benipal, ’17, UW Seattle
Jean Blatchford, ’13, UW Seattle
Tyler Branham, ’14, UW Seattle
Tom Glanz, ’09, UW Seattle
Michaela Gormley, ’09, UW Seattle
Vera Hoang, ’14, UW Seattle
Laura Hutchinson, ’08, UW Seattle
Tauna Johnson, ’10, Certif. ’11, UW Seattle
Camille Koon, ’10, UW Seattle
Kate Mead, ’11, J.D. ’14, UW Seattle
Orchideh Raisdanai, ’16, UW Bothell
Rebecca Rosario, ’13, UW Tacoma
Paul Son, ’09, UW Seattle

“As a woman in engineering and law, I know what it’s like to feel unmoored and out-of-place as I transitioned from school to the workforce. If we can provide a strong network of support to our recent graduates, I’m confident that we can ease the stress of transitioning to the workplace and ensure that all recent graduates — regardless of race, gender or socioeconomic status — have the confidence to apply their UW educations to the professional world.  I am incredibly proud to be a UW alum, and I am looking forward to serving the community that has given me so much!” —Kate Mead ’11, ‘14

“I have loved serving my first term with the GOLD council because I have been so grateful for all that the University of Washington had given me during my time there and this is my chance to give back.” —Tauna Johnson ‘10, ‘11

“I’m truly grateful to the University of Washington and all of the opportunities I had as a student and am looking forward to serving on the GOLD Council so I can give back to the University while also engaging current and future alumni.” —Rebecca Rosario ‘13

“I love the UW and want to connect with students and alumni to promote awareness on how the UW can remain a presence in their lives after graduation.” —Camilla Koon ‘10

“So much of what I experienced at the UW has informed the rest of my life so far and has driven me to stay engaged with the university and community.” —Tom Glanz ‘09

“I believe that as an alumni it is important to be engaged with UW so that students can continue having the opportunities (and more) that I had as a student.” —Stephanie Benipal ‘17

What are the goals of the GOLD Council?

• Act as a driving voice and conduit to the wider community of recent graduates.
• Increase engagement of the GOLD population in UWAA events, programs, and membership.
• Help progress our mission of supporting higher education in the state of Washington.

Who is eligible? What are the requirements of the Council?

• Have received a degree or credential from the UW within the last ten years at the time of application.
• Attend GOLD Council meetings and retreat:
  • Quarterly GOLD Council in-person meetings (four times per year)
  • Quarterly subcommittee phone/virtual check ins (four times per year)
  • Annual GOLD Council retreat (once per year)
• Promote and attend UWAA-sponsored events and activities, as needed to meet the goals of the GOLD Council
• Maintain an active membership with UW Alumni Association

What are the terms of service?

GOLD Council members serve for a term of two years. Up to four GOLD Council members can serve a consecutive second term (for a total of four years) assuming GOLD eligibility at the time of renewal.

What can I expect from this experience?

Members of the GOLD Council will be able to get to know and work alongside other actively engaged alumni and community leaders who are passionate about UW, the Alumni Association, and contributing to a thriving Husky community. GOLD Council members will have the opportunity to meet with UW Alumni Association staff and campus leadership to gain a better understanding of current programs and initiatives, institutional goals, and how the work of the Council fits within these frameworks.

What will my impact be on the GOLD Council?

The GOLD Council plays a vital role in increasing awareness of UWAA programs and initiatives amongst the recent graduate population. This impact can be felt in-person where Council increase participation of the GOLD population at UWAA events; virtually as Council members activate their network to promote upcoming programs and UWAA membership; and continually, as Council members enhance the GOLD brand identity. The GOLD Council plays a vital role in outreaching to members of the GOLD population who may be less active with UWAA and fosters a Husky community that welcomes all members.

What are the selection process and criteria?

The selection process will include an online application and an individual interview for those who move forward in the selection process. The GOLD council reflects the diversity of the GOLD population, including UW campuses, schools/colleges, identities, and communities. We are seeking new members with the energy, skills, and passion to advance the GOLD Council’s goals.

GOLD Council History

The GOLD Council launched its inaugural group in 2017. Since then, the Council has created and refined its goals and internal structures, created a GOLD presence at UWAA marquee events, and promoted GOLD-specific events and programs to recent graduates.

How can I get additional information?

Please contact the Alumni & Student Programs team at asengage@uw.edu for more information.