A Graduation Tradition Moves Online: Gonfalonieres and Guardians of the Gonfalon

Andres Flores, ’20, Architecture

I’m from Fort Collins, Colorado and I came to the UW because of the unique opportunities and challenges Seattle offers.

I’d like to thank my family for the support they have given me, my professors for selflessly sharing their knowledge with me and my friends for the unforgettable shenanigans. I’d also like to give a special thanks to Audrey, who patiently helped me through this adventure.

To incoming students, I’d say work hard, but don’t take things too seriously, ask for help whenever you need it, remember that often your friends are your best teachers, and have a lot of fun.

J. Bruce Camino, ’81, ’83, Architect, Philanthropist, Visionary, Aviator, and Adventurer

I am an architect who has been able to combine his profession as an architect with his passion for aviation. I specialize in the design of mission critical facilities, and the profession has given me the nickname of “The Flying Architect.”

I am very proud of the fact that the UW helped me develop as a well-rounded architect inside and outside the classroom. I benefited from everything the UW had to offer starting with two degrees, leadership opportunities, sports, and networking.

To the class of 2020: Find a way to combine your passion in life with your profession. That is how you will find your specialization. Network and harbor relationships, and always be kind to everyone. People need people. Stay hungry, and never, ever give up on your dreams.

Lila Faulhaber, ’20, Neuroscience

I grew up in Vietnam, but went to high school in Blaine, Washington. I chose the UW because it offered me the growth opportunities I wanted coming out of a small town. Here, I found my passion for neuroscience and educational outreach.

I would like to thank my parents and grandma for raising me to be a hardworking and ambitious individual. They are supportive, loving, and they can never be recognized enough. I’m glad that I have the opportunity to reflect their achievements in me.

To my fellow Huskies, I’d like to say: There’s a balance between being a being a successful student and a healthy, relaxing personal life. The sooner you can find this balance, the more you’ll be able to enjoy your college career.

Taylor Victoria Halverson, ’20, Communication, Scandinavian Studies

Though I’m originally from West Seattle, I spent most of my pre-college years in Oak Harbor, up on Whidbey Island. I feel very much like UW picked me. Once I set foot on campus for the first time, I couldn’t imagine myself anywhere else.

I’ve have the opportunity to do many things during my time at UW, but I am most proud of my work as the Programming Intern with the ASUW Queer Student Commission, a performer in the 2018 ____ Monologues, and Playwright for Check this Shhh… Out.

I would like to thank my advisers, Kim Kraft and Troy Bonnes, for helping me forge my own path, my siblings for keeping me humble, my lovely girlfriend for giving me nothing but support, and of course my parents for everything and more.

To future Huskies, I say, keep your eyes peeled, your mind open, and listen to your gut. You never know how your path will change over these next few years. If you feel yourself being pulled in a different direction than you expected, don’t be afraid to follow it.

Kathalina Rose Hoffman, ’20, American Indian Studies, Pre-Nursing

I grew up in Olympia, and the UW is and always has been my dream school. My dad went here before me, and I grew up going to the football games! I have cherished being an active member of my communities at the UW. Anywhere from First Nations to the Dance Department, the people I have met along the way made my time here all the more meaningful.

I would like to thank my parents for always believing in me and preparing me for life. You always inspired me to have the courage to get where I want to go and your support through my many endeavors made them possible. I love you.

My advice to first-year students is: Don’t be afraid to mess up. Some of the best opportunities were presented to me when another door became closed. Life is about the journey, not the destination- enjoy your time at UW!

Feiyang Liu, ’20, Applied and Computational Mathematical Sciences (ACMS), Latin

I am from Hangzhou, China. I decided to study at the UW primarily because of the great impression Chief Seattle’s speech that I learned in primary school had on me. The UW also let me pursue my interest in both mathematics and antiquities.

I would like to thank my parents who have supported me to explore my interests, my friends who have provided strategies for my real-world problems, and professors and teaching assistants who have helped me to unfold the intricate concepts in the academic realm.

To incoming students, I’d like to share a saying from China: “You never visit Mount Lu if you do not visit Five-Old-Man Peak.” The advice is to recognize where your own “Five-Old-Man Peak” is while you are in “Mount Lu” and climb up the peak.

DiShawnn Newell, ’20, Neuroscience and Psychology

I came to the UW from Illinois because of the UW’s prestigious academic standing within the research and medical community. The UW also afforded me the opportunity to gain a holistic education focusing on the brain. I learned of human biology through Neuroscience and consequent behavior through Psychology.

I would like to thank Mom, Dad, Aunt Harriett, my sister, Jeff, and Carrie for all of their love and support throughout the years. Their guidance and relentless dedication were a cornerstone to my success, and I am forever grateful. I love you!

To incoming students, I’d say: The UW is a big university, so find your community of support early. But don’t be intimidated. Get ahead of your studies, befriend your instructors, and embrace every opportunity this campus has to offer. There will be some challenging days, but remember, YOU ARE GOOD ENOUGH!

Calvin Paulson, ’20, History: Empire & Colonialism

I chose history as my major because this field is uniquely positioned to empower marginalized people and heal the wounds caused by past violence.

I would like to thank the faculty of the history department, and in particular Charity Urbanski, Jordanna Bailkin, and Laurie Marhoefer. I would also like to recognize the history department’s advising team, their generosity, and the deeply necessary work of departmental advisors across the UW.

To incoming students, I’d offer this advice: Meet with your departmental advisors, and meet with your departmental librarians. There are loads of people here at the UW who want to help students whose services are often underutilized by students. This campus is filled with people who want to help you. Meet them!

Peter Chiarelli, ’96, Screenwriter

At the UW, I had no idea I’d become a screenwriter (“The Proposal”, “Crazy Rich Asians”). My greatest academic failures in college (accounting, statistics, honors economics) turned out to be just as important as any successes in helping me figure out what I wanted to do with my life.

To new grads, my advice is: “One for them and one for me.” Professionally, you have to keep food on the table and a roof over your head. But don’t be afraid to take a chance on things you care about.

Delia Gomez, ’17, After-school Counselor and Performance Artist

A standout moment at the UW for me was working in Recruitment & Outreach (now MOR) with kids from all over Washington. Reminding them each of their immense ability to grow and change. I loved being able to show kids there was more to life than the small towns they came from.

Is there anything you would like us to know? I am also a local Indigenous artist here in Seattle, doing spoken word performances with Indigenize Productions, an all Indigenous performance group.

To the Class of 2020: Remember that it is okay to not have it all figured out. A lot of us have an idea of what our lives will be but it’s okay to try new things and be uncertain. Your community will lift you up.

Sariah Khormaee, ’06, Surgery Fellow, Stanford University; Spine Surgeon, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York City

My work focuses on engineering approaches to extending the accessibility and affordability of spine treatments in low-resource areas globally. I am passionate about engaging and mentoring enthusiastic individuals to get involved in research, especially young women who are traditionally underrepresented in spine research. Working with Professor Tueng Shen was a highlight for me at UW. Her mentorship throughout was incredible — she was my first example of what it meant to be a physician scientist and set the foundation for what I am doing now in my career.

To current students: The UW is an extraordinary place with opportunities in every direction that prepares hard working Dawgs for future successes. Pick substantial problems that are difficult, but whose solutions will be meaningful, so that the foundation you’ve gained at the UW will find a worthy goal.

Kim Kraft, ’96, ’13, Swedish Lecturer and Academic Adviser

I was so excited to find out that UW had a Scandinavian Department when I was an undergraduate, and my Swedish classes with Lars Warme and Lotta Gavel-Adams were my favorite.

To the class of 2020: Never stop learning about yourself and the world. Never stop fighting for justice and what you know is right. Stay true to your values, your strengths, your authentic self. Travel!

Sara Leonetti, ’15, ’19, Attorney

I graduated from UW Law last year and became a member of the Order of the Coif and Order of the Barristers.

Standout UW memory: I’ll always remember competing at the national mock trial competition with the UW Mock Trial Team. I loved working as part of such a dedicated and supportive team. My experience with UW Mock Trial made me confident in my decision to go to law school.

To the Class of 2020: Be honest with yourself about what you want from your life, and don’t find reasons to limit yourself.

Amber Morse, ’14, ’16

Anne-Lise Nilsen, ’14, I am a professional dog trainer as well as the Manager for Camp Canine Dog Daycare (a full service dog daycare, boarding, grooming and training facility in Mukilteo, WA). But, I am most known for being Dubs II’s Trainer for UW’s ICA Live Mascot Program (it is also my favorite of my jobs for obvious reasons!).

I was a Student Handler for Dubs (1) while a student 2012-2014, a Mary Gates Research Scholarship recipient 2013 and 2014, in the Psychology Honors Program and Interdisciplinary Honors Program and a member of the Delta Zeta Sorority.

Nothing compares to hearing the roar of Husky Stadium for the first home game in the newly renovated stadium to open up the 2013 football season with Dubs leading me and the rest of the team out of the tunnel at a full sprint.

To the class of 2020: Learn from your experiences, the good and the bad. There is something from each of your experiences that you can build from and it is up to you to do something with that information!

Aber Whitcomb, ’00, CTO and Co-Founder, Myspace; CTO and Co-founder, JamCity

I have been a serial entrepreneur, using much of what I learned in computation science at UW at my companies.

Standout UW moment: I remember working all night trying to pass first year CS classes. I would take a couple of cat naps under the desk in the computer labs.

To the Class of 2020: Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.

Danny Bui, ’20, Information Systems & Operations, Supply Chain Management

I was born and raised in San Jose, California. The idea of attending college in my home state was dull. I wanted to explore the outdoors of the Pacific Northwest while pursuing my passion for business and technology.

First, I would like to thank the professors and advisors at the Foster School and students of UW for making my college experience memorable. Lastly, I would like to thank my mom for her words of wisdom and endless support.

My advice to incoming students is to “Grab the bull by the horns.” Your college experience is what you make of it. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to find your identity through on-campus organizations and unique students of UDUB. Live up to the university motto and Be Boundless.

Aggie Clark, ’86, Senior-level operations management in the financial services industry

I am honored to serve on the UW Alumni Association Board of Trustees as the 2019-2020 Board President and on the Foster School’s Consulting & Business Development Center’s Advisory Board. I am also the Board President of the Des Moines Area Food Bank.

Favorite UW moment: I met my life-long mentor as a sophomore at my work-study job at the Visitors Information Center. My entire career was launched because a UW staff member alumnus cared enough to build a relationship with a student

To the Class of 2020: While you can’t control when opportunity knocks, you can make sure you’re ready when it does. Be a lifelong learner. Do your best, even when you don’t think it matters. Be kind to yourself. Enjoy both the journey and the destination. Congratulations, Graduates!

Dalya Perez, ’15, ’20, Ph.D., Educational Leadership and Policy Studies: Higher Education

As a long time educator, I know that institutions of education have the power to transform peoples lives and communities. UW’s College of Education helped me launch into a meaningful doctoral journey of equitable leadership, research, and action.

Who would you like to thank/recognize and why:
I would like to thank my amazing partner and co-parent Brian for bringing so much love, delicious food and laughter, and Carlos & Amiel, for being the best kids ever I love you! Also my parents, for your endless generosity, and Yasmeen and Hester for being our beloved family.

My advice for incoming students is to connect with student support staff and programs, especially OSDI if you’re a student of color or LGBTQ! Get involved early with research opportunities. Find faculty whose work you admire and build relationships with them. Stay in good communication with your advisor!

Mary E. Fertakis, ’83, ’13, CEO of M Fertakis Consulting, LLC – Equity, Diversity & Inclusion Issues in P-12 . Equity Consultant, National School Boards Association. Former School Board Director, Tukwila School District (1995-2017). Current elected member of the Washington State Board of Education. Peace Corps Volunteer (Senegal). Founder, Tukwila Children’s Foundation. International Chapter Advisor of the Year, Alpha Gamma Delta. WEA, Human and Civil Rights Award. Community Leadership Team, Road Map Project. Rotary International – Paul Harris Fellow Award.

Favorite UW Memory: Husky football. I attended the Rose Bowl following their 1981 season (they lost to Michigan), BUT that was also the season we created “The Wave” during the Homecoming Game! I will never forget the roar of the crowd when we made the first complete circle!

To the class of 2020: Embrace life-long learning. We have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity due to this pandemic to dismantle systems that have not served each child well in the education sector – so focus on the “what if’s….”, rather than the “yeah, but’s….” Dream big!

Tushar Khurana, ’20, Interdisciplinary Engineering

Growing up, my family moved back and forth between different cities in India and the US. I wanted to study at a public university in a large city, so the UW was a great fit.

I would like to thank my previous CEE advisor, Mariko Navin, as well as my advisors Mike Engh, Scott Winter, Jessica Lundquist and Bart Nijssen.

Everyone comes from a different place, so try not to be too hard on yourself or compare or compete with other students. Also, mental health and relationships are important, even though the engineering workload can be excessive and make it hard to prioritize.

Kimberly Ruth, ’20, Computer Engineering and Mathematics

I love computing since I enjoy using logical structures to build technologies that help people. I chose to attend UW due to its abundant opportunities for growth and world-class academic strength, especially in my field.

I’d like to thank my family, and especially my mom, for their support and encouragement throughout my undergraduate experience. I’d also like to thank my research mentors, Franziska Roesner and Tadayoshi Kohno, for their guidance and advice as I’ve grown as a researcher.

To incoming students, I say, learn how to ask questions that help you think more clearly and understand the world better. Look for the opportunities that surround you and dive into them wholeheartedly. Be kind to yourself and to others. Celebrate your strengths and work on your areas for growth.

Jagjeet “Jeet” Bindra, ’70, I retired from Chevron Corporation in 2009 after spending over 32 years in different roles.  The last assignment was as President, Chevron Global Manufacturing, with responsibility for Chevron/Texaco/CalTex refineries across the globe.  Since my retirement I have served on the Board of Directors of several public companies, including LyondellBasell Industries N.V., Edison International/Southern California Edison Company, WorleyParsons Inc., Reliance Petroleum Industries, and Transocean Limited.

I have been a member of the UW College of Engineering Visiting Committee for over two decades, and served as its Chairman from 2014-18.  In 2008 I was recognized with College of Engineering Diamond Award for Distinguished Service to the Industry.

Favorite UW Memory: The UW campus had an active Indian student population.  I was elected President of the Indian Students’ Association, and coordinated the annual Diwali (Festival of Lights) where we cooked dinner for over 300 people.

To the class of 2020: Don’t think that your education ends with your graduation from UW.  You must constantly look for opportunities to learn and grow.  Dream big and prepare yourself to take advantage of every opportunity that comes your way.  Once you are successful, help others.

Edward Bock, ’61, I started in June 1961 as an Associate Engineer on the Atlas F ICBM Silo Missile Life System. Had many interesting jobs in Engineering and Management, completing my 39 year career as Vice President of the Atlas recurring program, with 40 successful launches in 5 years. Institutionalized Continuous Improvement on the Commercial Atlas Program, which resulted in 100% mission success of the Atlas II series launch vehicles – a total 64 flights. Retired in early 2000.

I was a member (snare drum) of the Husky Marching Band in 1957, ’58 and ’59. Went to the Rose Bowl with the band in 1960. HMB members started the Saints Dixieland Band. Won the UW’s Village Band Contest in 1957 and became a campus/Seattle icon.

To the class of 2020: When offered a more challenging job – take it. Question the “conventional wisdom”. Find a mentor, or a series of mentors, and follow their advice. As a supervisor, promote employees that are smarter than you. Listen to your peers and employees.

Timothy Emmanuel Brown, ’14, ’20, Ph.D., Philosophy

I come from Los Angeles. I chose philosophy because it was the only place I could ask the questions I wanted to ask — about what exists and how we make sense of it. I chose UW because of the adventurous folks in the philosophy department. I was a founding member of the Neuroethics Thrust at the Center for Neurotechnology. I represented UW at the Andrew Mellon Humanities Without Walls workshop. I participated in the excellent Critical Gaming Group.

I thank: my partner, Sandra, for reminding me of what I stand for and what’s important; Dr. Sara Goering, for her guidance, enthusiasm, and advocacy; and my mom, for giving me a voice and the strength to stand up for it.

Do not allow the boundaries between disciplines to stand in the way of your ambitions. Seek out friends and mentors who care about your humanity. Make yourself available to people who need you.

Dantzel Cenatiempo, ’14, ’20, Ph.D., French Studies, emphasis in Gender, Women, and Sexuality Studies

I’m from Lake Stevens and moved away for undergrad. I came back to the UW intending to get a master’s degree. Instead, I continued and completed a Ph.D. in French Studies, focused on interdisciplinary fashion and gender/sexuality. The sociological aspects and implications of appearance fascinate me.

While at the UW I’ve traveled to France, Belgium and Luxembourg during grant-funded research trips and taught hundreds of incredible students.

Thank you to my UW colleagues and mentors. I would also like to thank my parents and spouse for their constant support, and my three children for providing a source of motivation. I hope my accomplishments at UW inspire them to pursue their own dreams.

To my fellow Huskies: You never know what you can do until you try! I certainly didn’t. Take every opportunity you can.

Brian J. Evans, ’20, M.F.A., Dance

I would like to express my gratitude to every artist, teacher, mentor, student and staff member who impacted my time at UW. Specifically, the Department of Dance for creating opportunities to learn, to challenge, to understand and to grow with unfettered support, love and encouragement!

My advice to future students is: Lean into the discomfort of the unknown. Find ways to embody who you are becoming. Share who you are while being curious about others whom you encounter. Diversity, equity, inclusion and access are not optional but necessary for creating brave and responsible educative spaces.

Tasha Lin, ’20, M.S., Information Management

Born and raised in Toronto, Canada, I came to the UW to explore the unintended consequences of technological innovation. I chose the UW iSchool due to the interdisciplinary nature of the program, and have been able to take courses from many other schools including sociology, urban planning, and law.

Thank you to my advisors and professors who supported me these past two years. To my friends, I would not have made it through without you guys. Thank you to my family, for their unwavering support.

My advice to incoming students is: Work hard, play hard!

Alexandra Bradshaw-Yerby, ’19, Former professional dance artist, Pre-Doctoral Lecturer of Dance at UW, currently Assistant Professor of Dance at Southern Utah University. During my time at the University of Washington, I served on the Executive Board of Phi Beta Kappa Honor Society Washington Alpha Chapter. I was also honored to receive a nomination for the Excellence In Teaching Award.

During my first quarter at UW, I remember walking into the Reading Room at Suzzallo Library for the first time. In that moment, I knew that everything in my life was exactly as it should be.

To the class of 2020: MFA Dance graduates–the world needs your stable yet nimble footing, your interdisciplinary fortitude, and your creative stamina now more than ever. All of your hard work at UW has prepared you for what is to come, enjoy the beautiful ride.

Asia Ferrin, ’09, ’16, Assistant Professor of Philosophy

My favorite UW memory is walking with my thoughts along the lush Burke-Gilman trail.

To the Class of 2020: Your contributions matter! Keeping speaking your truth, even when afraid: “I have come to believe over and over again that what is most important to me must be spoken, made verbal and shared, even at the risk of having it bruised or misunderstood.” –Audre Lorde

Andy Herman, ’11, ’17, I am currently working as a risk program manager at Microsoft and serving as the University of Washington Information School Alumni Board Co-chair. I’m honored to be able to contribute back to the school that has trained me so well to be successful in my field.

My favorite class was the operational risk management course with Annie Searle. The course format involved inviting multiple experts in risk management to the lecture and it was great to pair classroom learning with real world experiences.

To the class of 2020: During this difficult and uncertain time, always remember to embrace challenges and changes, learn from each other, and keep marching ahead. The University of Washington has laid down the foundations to your success, time may feel slower, but success will come with persistence!

Sabrina Tatta, ’97, University Lecturer and Advisor.

Who/what do I remember about UW? There are too many moments & people to point to/thank for the lessons & joy experienced. The connections, opportunities and privileges afforded by education have contributed to better self-awareness, a desire to contribute and the tools to do so.

To the class of 2020: May you always cultivate a sense of purpose, connect, and belonging into which you can include others. And may our circles of light grow wider and intersect with all others—growing brighter, lighter and kinder with every passing year. Wishing you life-long learning!

Autumn Derr, ’20 Informatics – Data Science & Human Computer Interaction

I chose UW for its mix of academic rigor and rich college experience, from city life to the scenic Pacific Northwest. I was especially inspired by the Informatics program’s emphasis on community, leadership, and breadth of learning in technology.

I’m thankful for the iSchool staff, faculty, peers, and my friends and family who pushed me to pursue incredible opportunities. I’d like to recognize Winfo for being the best team! Finally, I’d like to thank all the inspiring women who pursued STEM before me.

My advice to new students is: Explore Informatics classes! Join clubs and don’t be afraid to meet older students because they have a lot more college experience and connections. Get off campus when you can to explore Seattle and PNW! You belong here, you’re just as talented as those around you.

Hayley Younghusband, ’20, Infomatics

My first quarter, I took an informatics course and fell in love with coding. Each Informatics course provides a unique topic and new skill to learn. Informatics offers me a diverse perspective of technology that has led me to my career as a product manager.

The most impactful experiences have been my involvement as a TA for two Informatics courses and being co-president of Women in Informatics. I love giving back to my Informatics community and following my passions for teaching and advocating for women in tech.

I would like to thank all my inspiring friends who acted as my role models and encouraged me to succeed. I would also like to thank my family who supported me in every way possible and never doubted my abilities.

Get involved! I learned so much in my classes but many of the experiences that have had the strongest impact on me are those that I completed outside of the classroom. Reach for the leadership experiences, get hands-on with research and follow your passions!

Norah Abokhodair, ’11, ’17, Senior Program Manager at Microsoft. I came to the UW Information School as a Fulbright scholar from Saudi Arabia after receiving the Science Award.

My favorite class was Value Sensitive Design by Batya Friedman and David G. Hendry

To the class of 2020: Never stop learning!

Beck Keller, ’16, Content Librarian, Echo Services for Microsoft Library. I’m a member of the Information School’s Alumni Advisory Board and Student-to-Alumni Mentorship Program, and I served as its 2019 Guardian of the Gonfalon.

Favorite UW moment: Meeting the classmate who would become one of my dearest friends (and my witness when I got married).

To the class of 2020: Be open to new opportunities—just because something doesn’t have “Library” or “Information Management” in its title doesn’t mean you’re not qualified for it! Stay in touch with your professors and classmates—you may end up working with them someday.

Zola Valashiya, ’20, Sustainable International Development

I was born and raised in Johannesburg, South Africa. I wanted to align my intellectual curiosity with passion. UW offered an LLM that brings together my passion for development and empowers me with professional skills and inspires me to be a better leader.

There are four UW professors I would like to thank in particular: Jennifer Lenga-Long, who has been an incredible pillar of support from application phase to graduation; William Covington, who pushed me to vigorously pursue my intellectual curiosities; Dana Raigrodski, for being genuine and assuring that everyone matters; and the always energetic, motivational and hilarious Carrie Sanford.

To incoming students, I say that UW School of Law is not only about academic achievement and studying. Its about community: Everyone here at the UW law school is utterly dedicated to your success and its an opportunity to stretch yourself holistically as a person. Prepare to be inspired!

Justice Raquel Montoya-Lewis, ’95, ’96, Supreme Court Justice; Superior Court Judge; Tribal Court judge; Professor.

I have spent my career in public service and have found that to be a very rewarding and exciting career. I’ve been recognized for that work by several organizations. UW SOL Dean’s Leadership Award 2015; Children’s Advocacy Center Community Leadership Award 2018; Community Building Award, 2009.

Favorite UW Memory: I remember a moment in my Contracts class with Professor Wolcher. He asked the class a question about the case we were reading and I responded by saying, “It seems…paternalistic?” It was the word he was looking for; I learned that day to trust myself.

To the class of 2020: I always try to remember the people who came before me and laid a path for me to follow, as well as the people who will follow me. You’ll never regret honoring your ancestors and your children’s children by doing good work and supporting communities.

Representing both the School of Law and the School of Social Work

Faridah Abdullah, ’18, ’20, Master of Occupational Therapy

I was raised in White Center and also received my bachelors in psychology and medical anthropology at UW in 2018. I believe that a person’s health is the intersection of mind, body, and spirit and occupational therapy’s holistic and client-centered approach was the best fit.

The Khmer community at UW provided me an opportunity to create a mental health workshop: The Healing Art of Khmer Classical Dancing. It was an incredible moment where I combined my lived cultural experiences with my knowledge of creating group therapy sessions from occupational therapy.

Thank you to my parents who endured the refugee experience and created this opportunity for me to prosper. Thank you to Avina, Ann, Kae, Raedah, Suraya, Nick, Benny, Jomell, Med Gen Admin office, and all of KhSA for keeping me grounded and loved!

Celebrate all of your accomplishments; remember that you were once dreaming of being where you are now.

Elena Donoso Brown, Ph.D. ’12

My background is in occupational therapy and I currently teach and do research as an assistant professor. Whenever we had cause for celebration as a cohort we would go for a bite to eat at Agua Verde. It was always a great time with good food and good friends.

This year I was awarded the Dean’s Award for Teaching Excellence from the school of health sciences. As part of an interprofessional collaboration, I have been co-PI on several small internal grants to further my research with adults post-stroke and interprofessional education.

To the Class of 2020: You have been well trained. Go make a difference in the lives of those you serve. Hold this mission close to your heart as you continue to grow as a practitioner.

Maggie Tai Tucker ’05 ’08

I’m an occupational therapist, school board director and community volunteer. I still remember with gratitude the day my classmates and I spent in wheelchairs rolling around the medical school campus. Not only did it change forever the way I see building entrances and bathroom stalls, but we managed a respectable game of pickup wheelchair basketball.

I currently serve on the Mercer Island school board. I have found my occupational therapy training useful in many aspects of the job: Understanding developmental stages, analyzing data, problem solving, setting measurable goals, tracking progress, writing up reports, and being accountable to others.

To the Class of 2020: You’ll learn as much from your colleagues as you did in school, so maintain a learning mindset and keep track of new knowledge as you acquire it. Also, sometimes there is no perfect answer to a problem, but there is usually one that is better.

Kristen Trivelli, ’20, DNP-FNP; Global WACh Certificate; AHEC WWAMI Certificate

I am originally from Chatham, NJ. I became a Family Nurse Practitioner because I want to partner with people, families and communities to maximize health and wellness. I chose the UW for its nursing school, and the opportunities it offers in both rural and global health.

While at the UW, I co-founded unicoRN, the school of Nursing’s LGBTQTSIA+ organization, I co-founded the Transforming Queer Health Conference, and I helped organize A Very Queer Health Fair. I organized Lobby Day 2019 with Health Equity Circle. I conducted research in Zimbabwe, Vietnam, and in Seattle.

I would like to thank my friends and family who were my backbone throughout this program. I also want to thank Dr. Beth Devine and Jennifer Wilson Norton with the Department of Pharmacy for mentoring me through my first research job, becoming my lifelong friends.

Invest in yourself, listen to your voice, and find your light. Prioritize the things that give you energy, for that will make your light shine brighter. Then, use your light as a beacon to guide you through new experiences with excitement and humility.

Sherri Del Bene, ’99, I have worked as a Registered Nurse at the University of Washington Medical Center since 1982. In my current role as an administrator in Patient Care Services at UWMC, I have responsibility for inpatient acute care, oncology, dialysis and rehabilitation.

I have many stand out moments mostly centered on conversations and classes with faculty who were generous and supportive. They challenged me to think deeply and critically. I vividly remember our School of Nursing graduation ceremony where I was accompanied by our 4 year old daughter Siena.

I enjoy being a part of the UW School of Nursing Advisory Board. In my work at UWMC, I love being a part of a Magnet organization and learning from colleagues, patients and families.

To the class of 2020: Follow your passion. Do your very best in every role and endeavor you take on. Go through doors that open to you.

Andrew Thomas Chin, ’20, Aquatic and Fisheries Science, Marine Biology

My pursuit of fisheries science is everything that 5-year-old me would have dreamed of. I initially attended school out-of-state, but the research and teaching community at the School of Aquatic and Fishery Sciences made a transfer back home to Seattle an easy decision.

At the UW, I conducted research on salmonid life histories in Alaska and plankton ecology off the Oregon coast and equatorial Pacific. In addition, I was a science communication fellow at Washington Sea Grant and editor-in-chief of the undergraduate environmental research journal FieldNotes.

There are too many people to thank. But in summary: my family for their unending love, my middle and high school teachers for sparking my curiosity, Dr. Tom Quinn for his guidance, and my peers in the College for inspiring me every day.

My advice to incoming students is: Be curious. Take the time to stop, and ask questions about the world around you. I echo Rachel’s words from last year of finding your people and lifting each other up. Great friends and mentors are as important as a good education.

Christen Becker, ’06, Career & College Coach, Small Business Consultant.

This year’s graduates were the last class of freshmen that I worked with as the College of the Environment’s pre-major adviser. What’s more, a few students in this graduating class represent the first class of Kindergarteners that I taught when I was a UW freshman!

My fondest moments (at the UW) were training a giant pacific octopus at the Seattle Aquarium to open jars in the name of research and snorkeling with penguins in the Galapagos Islands.

To the class of 2020: Entering the workforce during a global pandemic and recession is daunting but you are Huskies. You are undaunted. You’ve been training for this. You are College of the Environment grads. Solving problems is what you do. You’ve got this. Be creative. Work together. Create opportunity.

We’re so excited to celebrate with this mother-daughter pair of Husky pharmacists.

Marissa Robin Craig, ’16, ’20, Doctor of Pharmacy

I am from Redmond, WA and I chose the UW for my undergraduate and pharmacy studies because of the unparalleled learning opportunities and the culture and atmosphere here. I have been involved in several student organizations and committees throughout pharmacy school as well as working at Harborview Medical Center.

I would like to thank my supportive and loving parents, Ron and Barbara, my extraordinarily talented sister Sierra, my brilliant best friends Emma and Jordan and my kind and patient boyfriend David for everything they’ve done for me.

My advice to news students is: Soak up all the expertise you can from your colleagues, professors, and preceptors!

Barbara Tolliver-Craig, ’87, Currently, I’m working as a community pharmacist. Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to provide a variety of pharmacy services as a Certified Diabetes Educator, an anticoagulation therapy management provider, a family practice clinic pharmacist and a pharmacy manager.

My favorite pharmacy school memories include playing on our recreational volleyball team, studying in the South Campus Center booths with my classmates and eating pizza at Northlake Tavern.

I’ve enjoyed being a preceptor for many years. Helping students grow in knowledge, skill and confidence and watching so many go on to be outstanding pharmacists has been a pleasure and an honor. Watching my own daughter, Marissa, graduate this year is an absolute joy!

To the class of 2020: Don’t let the pandemic challenges of this year diminish your enthusiasm. Grab opportunities that are available to you, learn new skills and grow from them. Become a preceptor when you can. It is truly rewarding. Take care of your health and wear comfortable shoes!

Jenny Keiko Six, ’20, Public Administration

I’m from Chicago. I chose the Evans School to study public finance and policy analysis.

At the UW, I had the opportunity to work with some amazing colleagues through the Curriculum Advocacy Team, Evans People of Color, Evans Student Ambassadors, my teaching assistantships and my internship with the City of Seattle’s Department of Finance and Administrative Services.

Thank you to my partner, my Evans community, and my family for keeping me laughing, learning and moving forward in so many ways.

To incoming Evans students: As future (or, in some cases, current) public leaders, stay curious about why things are the way they are. Question norms and study the policies, outcomes and methodologies that could radically improve equity in our communities, even if, at first, they seem infeasible.

Efraín Gutiérrez, ’10, I’m currently the head of the Impact and Evaluation Unit at the Obama Foundation. It’s been an honor to work alongside President Obama, one of the public servants I admire the most. Since I left Evans I have made it a mission to help Foundations create effective strategies and learn how to measure their impact. Before working for the Foundation I worked in a strategy and evaluation consulting firm called FSG.

I have been very involved with the Evans School government during/after – I was president of the Evans Student Organization (ESO), I was Chair of the Deny Alumni Council, and now I’m part of the Advisory Board. They can’t get rid of me!

Lavender Graduation was such a special moment. My parents and my best friend where there from Mexico and that event was the first time I celebrated my queerness in community with my family and members of the LGBTQ familia. It was magical!

To the class of 2020: Your opinion is valid, your presence is needed, and your voice can change a room. Don’t let anyone take your voice away from you. Speak up!

Esther My Nguyen, ’20, Food Systems, Nutrition, and Health, Minor: Entrepreneurship

I was born and raised in Forks, Washington. I chose UW to explore new opportunities, push myself academically, and to find my passions. I’m happy to say I fell in love with the field of Nutritional Sciences, and cannot wait to continue down this path.

During summer of 2019, I lived in India interning in a Nutrition and Lactation program for a non-profit, and also volunteered in the Dominican Republic for the past three years.

I would like to thank my professors and mentors for always challenging and believing in me. I would like to thank my classmates, and friends, who made UW home for me. Most of all, I want to thank my parents for always supporting me.

My advice to incoming students is: You are entering a community full of the brightest peers and faculty who have so much knowledge to share. Always take the opportunity to learn, and never be afraid to ask questions or step out of your comfort zone! Don’t forget to always be kind!

June Bartell, ’79, Although I graduated from a clinical dietetics curriculum, I found my interests gravitated toward the administrative and management side of dietetics in healthcare settings. I enjoyed my work so much it never seemed like a “job”.

I have been honored to be involved in the return of the undergraduate nutrition program to the UW! The profession is constantly changing and I feel we have set up a program that will meet the needs of a wide array of nutrition challenges ahead.

My favorite memories of my time at the UW were enjoyed with my ‘cluster’ in McMahon Hall, as well as Friday afternoons at the College Inn Pub with my dietetics classmates.

To the class of 2020: Let your Husky pride shine, and you will never be without a friend—it’s a great conversation starter!

Kathryn Hilger Kingen, ’79, I am Vice President and co-owner of the Salty’s Seafood Grill Restaurants and co-founder of Pecos Pit BBQ International. I have been writing an award-winning food and nutrition blog for 12 years called Good for You for Salty’s and have also co-authored a cookbook, Good Ciao. It has been very fulfilling to have my nutrition major illuminate my career in the food industry.

Over the years I have always appreciated my useful and rewarding major in Nutrition and that my association with the University of Washington did not end with graduation but has continued with the exciting work to help bring back the School of Nutrition.

To the class of 2020: Be bold, take risks, think outside of the box and be prepared to innovate, the entire landscape of food is changing. Don’t be afraid to work harder than you expected. Look for opportunities to combine your knowledge, passion and gifts and let them shine.

Amber Barcel, ’20 Master of Social Work

I was born in Suwon, South Korea and raised in rural Nebraska. I chose to study social work at the UW because of its policy concentration and unapologetic equity lens.

While attending the UW, I worked at the Carlson Leadership & Public Service Center and the School of Social Work Writing Center. I also had wonderful practicum experiences with Asian Counseling & Referral Service and the Washington State Coalition Against Domestic Violence.

I want to thank my family for always cheering me on, my mentors for encouraging me to apply to UW, my friends for holding me accountable and my instructors for teaching me to be more empathetic and radical, especially Ariana Cantu and Shira Hassan.

To future social work students, my advice is to become intimately familiar with your boundaries and values. Find people and spaces that honor both. We all have an obligation to always consider our positionality. It is a privilege to be trusted by clients and communities.

Justice Raquel Montoya-Lewis, ’95, ’96, Supreme Court Justice; Superior Court Judge; Tribal Court judge; Professor.

I have spent my career in public service and have found that to be a very rewarding and exciting career. I’ve been recognized for that work by several organizations. UW SOL Dean’s Leadership Award 2015; Children’s Advocacy Center Community Leadership Award 2018; Community Building Award, 2009.

Favorite UW Memory: I remember a moment in my Contracts class with Professor Wolcher. He asked the class a question about the case we were reading and I responded by saying, “It seems…paternalistic?” It was the word he was looking for; I learned that day to trust myself.

To the class of 2020: I always try to remember the people who came before me and laid a path for me to follow, as well as the people who will follow me. You’ll never regret honoring your ancestors and your children’s children by doing good work and supporting communities.

Representing both the School of Law and the School of Social Work