Stacy Kendall | At-Large Trustee
Class of 2006, Bachelor of Arts, Art History
Why I Serve
I am a fourth-generation Husky woman, which is a special legacy. My maternal great-grandmother and grandmother studied art at the UW and both became working artists. They also were dedicated to on-campus volunteering and engagement. My great-grandmother was a founding member of the Lambda Row Arts Scholarship, a bygone offering that encouraged others to pursue their artistic passions.
The arts have always been celebrated in my family. That certainly influenced my pursuit of an art degree, even though I initially intended to study law. The UW likewise values the arts and offers rich resources ranging from the Henry Art Gallery to student showcases and performances. My art classes were really exciting and grabbed my attention.
There is often a generational focus on certain studies or careers. In my lifetime, STEM moved to the forefront. STEM is important and the UW remains at the vanguard of the field. Of equal importance is how the UW balances that focus with continued support and veneration of the arts. Rather than it being either/or mentality, the UW demonstrates a well-rounded approach to education.
Artistic expression is the act of storytelling. In this day and age, the ability to communicate the stories and values of higher education are more important than ever. Great institutions and communities do not happen by accident. We have to roll up our sleeves, lead by example, and walk the talk of why the UW is worth supporting.