Congratulations to PSO Mentor Debalina Datta!
Debalina Datta, Director of Professional Programs, UW Continuum College, has been at UW for 5 years now.
What inspired you to build a career in higher education, and how do you hope to impact your community through your work?
My journey into higher education was inspired by my belief in the power of learning to transform lives and expand possibilities. As someone who has navigated big transitions—moving countries, rebuilding community and growing in my career—I’ve seen firsthand how access to education can create confidence, opportunity, and belonging.
Working in UW Continuum College allows me to support learners at all stages of their career. I’m passionate about designing programs that are equitable, industry-responsive, and accessible, especially for adult learners who are balancing work, family, and financial constraints. Through strategic pricing, program design, and workforce-aligned credentials like badges and stackable pathways, I hope to make professional growth more attainable.
Ultimately, my goal is to leave the community better than I found it—by building systems that empower learners, and making education feel welcoming rather than intimidating.
As former members of the PSO Mentorship Program, how has mentorship positively influenced your professional development and sense of community on the UW campus?
Mentorship has been a grounding experience during my time at UW. As a mentor, it allowed me to give back what others offered me—guidance, confidence, and encouragement.
The PSO Mentorship Program helped me build relationships outside Continuum College that I may never have formed otherwise. It strengthened my sense of belonging and reminded me that professional growth is not a solo journey. Mentorship taught me that leadership is not only about expertise; it’s about empathy, connection, and lifting others as we rise. Mentorship isn’t a one-size-fits-all model. It’s about meeting your mentee exactly where they are, adapting your approach, be their sounding board and creating a space where they feel supported, understood, and motivated.
Those conversations, check-ins, and shared reflections continue to shape how I support my colleagues, lead my teams, and show up for my community.
What brings you joy?
Joy for me often comes from the simple, meaningful moments—walking with my dog, spending time with my family – playing board games, cooking together, watching a movie, dining out or exploring the beauty of PNW through hikes. I also find joy in creative work like developing programs or turning ideas into reality. And most of all, joy comes from knowing that the work I do, whether at UW or through my personal initiatives, contributes in some small way to making life better for someone else – humans or animals.
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Congratulations to PSO Mentee Siya Nkosi!
Siya Nkosi, Academic Adviser at the Humanities Academic Services, has been at UW for just under 4 years now.
What inspired you to build a career in higher education, and how do you hope to impact your community through your work?
I had an amazing experience during my undergraduate studies, and that was heavily impacted by the staff on campus. Most of my challenges I faced during that time came from outside the classroom, and they made me feel like I belonged and helped me grow in many ways. This inspired me to work in higher education and help students gain a sense of belonging.
As former members of the PSO Mentorship Program, how has mentorship positively influenced your professional development and sense of community on the UW campus as either a mentee or mentor?
Conversations with my mentor have helped me develop my skills in advocating for myself at work. It has also been helpful in developing community, as I can learn from others and have people to talk through some of my thoughts and goals for the future.
What brings you joy?
Cooking comforting meals brings me joy. I enjoy being with loved ones and having a meal together.