Becka Johnson | At-Large Trustee
Class of 2012, Master’s of Public Administration
Why I Serve
The UW was woven into my life since birth. My alumni parents met and fell in love on campus and my dad worked at the university, ultimately becoming chief of staff to the UW president. As a student, we would meet at Red Square for lunch or Suzzallo Library for coffee. It added a special texture to my UW experience.
Pursuing my graduate studies at the Evans School of Public Policy & Governance is one of the best decisions of my life. I always wanted a career where I could help people. Public policy is an opportunity to achieve a broad sphere of influence. The Evans School teaches practical ways to bring heart, character, and commitment to leadership.
That is where I caught the leadership bug. I was honored to receive the Daniel Evans Leadership Award for my service as student body president. That was my first time running for office – campaigning, posting flyers and putting up signs around Parrington Hall. As a kid, I aspired to be president. The UW helped realize a version of that dream!
After graduation, I worked in the UW Office of Finance, Planning & Budgeting. On my second day, I was asked to quickly create a briefing memo on an unfamiliar topic. My reaction was, “I’ve got this!” It was the exact type of exercise I learned as a student. Thanks to the UW, I was ready on day one.
The UW does incredible work training the leaders of tomorrow. It is important to safeguard that when public trust in higher education is challenged and funding is precarious.
I have experienced the UW in various capacities – as a student, staff member, and now as a community partner working for King County. I look forward to bringing those threads together to advocate for the university and ensure it weathers any storm. As alumni, we must pay it forward.
