GOLD Alumni Council

Max Chan, ’20, earned his bachelor’s degree in Communication and Political Science along with a minor in Dance. His four years on campus included serving as a First-Year Interest Group (FIG) Leader and Dawg Daze Leader with First Year Programs (FYP), earning the Husky Leadership Initiative Certificate and connecting his passions with his coursework. He is driven to positively impact the UW and local community, giving back to the people who supported him throughout his journey. His experience within the Dawg Pack and as a student marketing intern and equipment manager for the Husky Football program were integral to his current role as E-Commerce Manager with the UW Athletic Department, where he engages thousands of fans while supporting student-athletes. When he is not at Husky or other Seattle sporting events, Max is usually cooking new recipes, reading a new book, playing rec sports and finding new snacks at Costco.

Why I serve: Since stepping on campus as a freshman, UW has inspired me to make the most of my opportunities and encourage others to do the same. I aim to reciprocate and further enhance the strong sense of community created by my Husky family, including students, faculty, staff and more. Now that I have the privilege of serving within the Athletic Department and creating memories for guests at our sporting events, I am even prouder to continue growing in the place I call home. From long-time alumni to families with next generations of Huskies to current students who will be future leaders, there are so many individuals for whom I am proud to make a positive impact. Go Dawgs!

Muhui Chen, ’20, a proud alumna of the University of Washington, has charted a dynamic career path marked by continuous learning and growth. She holds a Master’s degree in Supply Chain Management from the Foster School of Business. Post-graduation, Muhui embarked on her career as a supply chain analyst, where she discovered her passion for data analytics. This interest led her to a position at Chewy in Bellevue, and she has recently advanced to the role of Senior Data Scientist at Walmart, contributing significantly to their transportation strategy team. Additionally, Muhui holds an undergraduate degree in Chemistry from Bryn Mawr College, which paved the way for her initial role as a Chemist Associate at Estée Lauder Companies. Outside of her professional life, she is an avid ice hockey player, participating in multiple leagues and embracing the outdoor activities offered by the Evergreen State.

Why I serve: My diverse career journey, spanning chemistry, supply chain management, and data science, reflects the transformative power of evolving interests and adaptive learning. I understand the challenges and rewards of navigating career transitions, and I am keen to share these insights with fellow alumni and students. Benefiting immensely from the University of Washington’s network, I am now eager to give back, helping others discover and leverage the myriad opportunities available through our university and its vibrant community. As an ambassador, my goal is to inspire and guide others in their professional and personal growth within this dynamic.

Salese Clark, ’23, is the 2023 Chancellor Medalist of the University of Washington Tacoma (UWT) who graduated with her Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration focusing on Marketing Management. Salese’s tenacity in her studies, while dedicating over 400 hours to volunteering in the diverse Tacoma community, has earned her the “BSU Dream” and “Gift of Service” awards. Salese, a Milgard School of Business scholar, proved her contributions to the development and success of the UWT campus, community service and peer support. Salese also mentored and helped develop “Lead Your Way” for Pierce County high school women interested in women’s leadership to become professionals. Lastly, Salese pursued studies abroad in Alicante, Spain to expand her horizons in diversity, equity, inclusion, and learning Spanish culture and language. Outside of her academic pursuits, she enjoys hiking, traveling, meeting new people, and volunteering as a Youth Leader in her free time.

Why I serve: I’m passionate about building and enriching diverse connections with anyone including students and alumni. As a recent UWT alum, I want others to feel included, heard, seen and welcomed. UW gave me confidence in who I am now, therefore I want to give back to all three campuses and make a positive difference by sharing professional knowledge, resources and mentorship. We are here in the community to come together no matter where you come from. Don’t allow your past to pull you back. Keep moving forward. You belong here!

Anders Dowell, ’23, is a versatile professional with expertise in management, data analysis and event directing. Utilizing his MBA in Leadership from the University of Washington Bothell and a BA in Geography & Geographic Information Systems from Western Washington University, Anders bridges academic knowledge with hands-on experience. His commitment to innovation and data-driven solutions consistently delivers impactful outcomes, making him a unique, invaluable asset across diverse industries and projects.

His roles span program management, hospitality, marketing, data science and technology. During his time with the University of Washington Bothell MBA Association, Anders orchestrated the 2022 and 2023 Pacific Northwest MBA Conferences, building upon its commitment and legacy of developing business students and professionals in the region.

Exploring diverse hobbies like biking, traveling, and creative pursuits fuels his innovative approach. These activities instill balance, foster creativity and refine problem-solving skills, enriching his professional endeavors with fresh perspectives and a well-rounded outlook.

Erica Lane, ’21, is a dedicated advocate for social justice and community engagement. Having earned her degree in Sociology at the University of Washington, Erica’s passion for global perspectives led her to participate in the university’s inaugural study-abroad trip to Ghana. Committed to bridging academic knowledge with real-world impact, she has volunteered for various programs affiliated with her UW classes, leveraging her education to contribute meaningfully to community initiatives. Erica brings the energy and a unique blend of academic insight and hands-on experience to her endeavors, embodying a commitment to fostering positive change. Erica currently works for Leadership Tomorrow, channeling her commitment to positive change into impactful work in the Seattle community.

Outside of work, Erica enjoys exploring the latest restaurants in Seattle, volunteering with different organizations, playing with dogs, traveling, or being active in the great outdoors.

Why I serve: I serve on the UW GOLD Council because of my relentless deep-seated passion for community engagement. The council provides a platform where I can actively contribute to shaping the University of Washington’s impact on the community, aligning my commitment to fostering meaningful connections and making a positive difference in the broader community through collaborative initiatives and strategic planning.

Queenie Liu, ’23, is a proud Husky alum who earned her Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Mathematics, with a minor in Data Science. During her time at UW, she served as the club president at the UW Actuarial Club and earned the 2021-2022 Bernbaum Family Endowed Scholarship. Now an analyst at Oliver Wyman, she applies her passion and expertise in actuarial science within the insurance and finance industry. Outside of work, Queenie enjoys traveling, baking/cooking and painting.

Why I serve: The decision to join the GOLD Council comes from a heartfelt gratitude and a strong bond with the UW. My years at the UW were not just educational; they were transformative, guiding me towards a path of community involvement and continuous learning. Joining the GOLD Council is an opportunity for me to give back, to offer the same support and chances that were pivotal during my own university days. In this role, I am dedicated to enriching the UW experience for everyone, to ensure they too enjoy a nurturing and dynamic community, just as I did.

Melissa Miralda, ’22, is a dynamic University of Washington Tacoma graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Sciences. Her passion for scientific research was exemplified through her work on arsenic contamination in King County lakes. She presented her research at notable venues, including the UW Undergraduate Research Symposium and the American Society for Microbiology 2022 Annual Microbe Conference. Awarded scholarships from the UWT School of Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences and the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE) Althea Lute Memorial Scholarship, she has consistently demonstrated commitment to her education.

As an entrepreneurial medical interpreter, Melissa is a prominent speaker and member of the Pre-Health Dreamers organization, advocating for undocumented students to pursue higher education and creatively utilize their degrees. She also serves as a medical interpreter consultant and volunteer for King County Public Health, ensuring quality language access and patient satisfaction.

In her personal life, Melissa is dedicated to applying to medical school and volunteers at hospitals and clinics, offering support in neonatal care and breast health. A dog lover, she walks dogs from the local animal shelter. In her free time, she enjoys nature walks, preparing homemade dishes and playing soccer. Proudly Honduran and Latina, Melissa is committed to equity and inclusion, striving to promote access and opportunities for all students at the University of Washington.

Why I Serve: I am grateful for the opportunities I took advantage of at UWT and want to promote access for current undocumented students in all three campuses of the University of Washington. I am always looking forward to connecting with others to learn and continue to promote equity and inclusion in our community. I am a true believer in an all-inclusive University of Washington.

Sophie Muro, ’20, earned her bachelor’s degree in Anthropology and Art History from the University of Washington, Seattle campus. While attending the UW, Sophie was involved in several organizations and experiences across campus, including serving as the Director of Outreach and Involvement for ASUW; the Chair of the Arts and Sciences Advisory Council for Students; a First-Year Interest Group (FIG) Leader; an undergraduate researcher; and working for the UW Alumni Association as a Student Ambassador. Because of her empowering experiences at the UW, Sophie went on to earn her graduate degree in Museum Studies from George Washington University. Currently, she works at the Burke Museum as the Assistant Archaeology Collections Manager. Working on campus and interacting with UW students has been an absolute joy for her. When she’s not at work, Sophie enjoys reading, knitting and trying new recipes!

Why I Serve: I’m honored to have the opportunity to give back to a campus community that has done so much for me both personally and professionally. Any chance to support our future generation of Huskies is a worthwhile pursuit. Through this position, I hope to empower current UW students to take advantage of all the incredible resources at their disposal.

Madison Nikfard, ’20, ’22, is a “Double Dawg” with her BFA in Media & Communication Studies and MFA in Creative Writing & Poetics from the University of Washington. She is proud to be a first-generation student and second-generation immigrant. Currently, Madison works for the UW as a Communications & Events Specialist and enjoys continuing to connect with Huskies on a daily basis. Outside of work, Madison volunteers for the Seattle Animal Foundation, creates freelance art commissions and takes walks with her partner and border collie Bosco.

Why I Serve: Having so many experiences at the UW (as an undergrad student, graduate student, student-employee, and now a full-time staff member) has allowed me to meet so many members of the UW community and understand the needs of students and alumni from unique perspectives. I look forward to sharing what I’ve learned, as well as learning from others to connect our Husky alumni to new resources and valuable opportunities.

Jenica Norris, ’14, ’23, is a dynamic professional with expertise in operations, administration, business strategy and organizational leadership. With an MBA from the University of Washington and certifications as a Project Management Professional (PMP) and Six Sigma Black Belt, Jenica bridges academic excellence with a proven track record of driving impactful change across industries. Her passion for empowering teams and optimizing processes makes her an invaluable asset to every initiative she undertakes.

Her career spans roles in program management, business consulting, administration and strategic operations, with contributions at leading organizations such as Microsoft and Zillow. As the Founder and CEO of Strategic Sound Consulting, Jenica leverages her expertise to help small and medium-sized businesses streamline operations, enhance efficiency and amplify growth.

An active alumna, Jenica channels her passion for the UW community into meaningful volunteer work, fostering connections and supporting initiatives that uplift the university’s alumni and student networks.

In her free time, Jenica enjoys cheering on her favorite teams — the Seattle Kraken, the Huskies, Mariners and the Sounders — along with reading and exploring the Pacific Northwest. These interests fuel her creativity and problem-solving skills, inspiring her to bring fresh perspectives and bold strategies to all her professional and volunteer endeavors.

Why I Serve: Since stepping on campus as a freshman, the University of Washington has profoundly inspired me to make the most of my opportunities and encourage others to do the same. With my degrees in Political Science and Law, Societies, and Justice from UW Seattle, followed by an MBA with a concentration in Leadership from UW Bothell, I have developed a strong foundation to contribute meaningfully to our community. I aim to reciprocate and further enhance the strong sense of community created by my Husky family, which includes students, faculty, staff, and alumni. Now that I have the privilege of serving on the UWAA Gold Council, I’m excited to continue building connections and creating memories for guests at our sporting events and beyond.

From long-time alumni to families with the next generations of Huskies, and current students who will become future leaders, I am proud to make a positive impact on so many lives. The experiences I’ve gained from the UW’s Seattle and Bothell campuses have equipped me to foster a spirit of support and collaboration within our community. Together, we are all part of a legacy that inspires growth, leadership, and connection. Go Dawgs!

Tyler Pichette, ’17, ’21, is a proud “double Dawg,” holding a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Economy and a Master of Business Administration. During his time at the University of Washington, Tyler was involved in a variety of student organizations and the Associated Students of the University of Washington as the Assistant Director of the Office of Government Relations where he led ASUW advocacy efforts at the local level related to Seattle’s Mandatory Housing Affordability program and Sound Transit 3. As a student, he was awarded the Daniel S. Lev award for Outstanding Thesis in Political Science in 2017. Since his time at the UW, Tyler has remained active in public policy at the local level. Currently, he’s a consultant at Pacific Public Affairs. Previously, he served as Chief of Staff for a King County Councilmember.

Why I serve: I look back on my time as a student with a sense of pride and a deep appreciation for the University of Washington and the broader community that I was a part of. As a proud alum, I appreciate the opportunity to give back to that community and help ensure fellow Huskies have the opportunity to engage with the University of Washington and stay involved in ways that are meaningful to them. Go Dawgs!

VeenaSravani Pillalamarri, ’18, ’21, is a double Husky who earned her Bachelor of Science in Biology and a Master’s in Healthcare Administration at UW Seattle. As an undergraduate student, she served as a Peer Advisor at the UAA and President of a health program organization on campus. She also enjoyed volunteering and was a student educator at multiple schools through the UW Pipeline Project. During her Master’s degree, Veena served as a Student Ambassador representing the MHA program and as Vice President of the MHA Student Association. Currently, Veena is a strategist at Premera Blue Cross, exploring the healthcare industry and working towards her passion for improving access to healthcare resources. Outside of work, Veena enjoys reading, baking new desserts, and traveling as much as possible.

Why I serve: The UW community is incredibly supportive and rich with opportunities for student growth. Having taken on leadership roles during my degrees, I value the opportunity presented through the GOLD council to build on my passion to continuously give back to an enriching community. I am looking forward to building strong connections and engaging with other GOLD members to better serve our Alumni network.

Aaron Thomas Valenta, ’23, earned his MBA from the Foster School of Business. During his studies at Foster, Aaron was president of the Finance Society and musical director of a student band. He currently works as a finance manager with AWS and a pro bono consultant for Armenian businesses through reArmenia. Originally from the San Francisco Bay Area, Aaron received a bachelor’s degree in psychology, with an emphasis in biological sciences and a minor in film study, from the University of California, Davis. In his free time, you can find Aaron supporting all manner of sports teams, crafting something exciting in the kitchen, or taking his four-legged best-friend, Iggy, on a long walk up and down the trails of the Pacific Northwest.

Why I serve: In my short time as a UW alumnus, I have been blessed with opportunities to meet truly incredible and interesting UW alumni. I know that the strength of this community can only improve with further engagement from our newest graduates. I learned the power of connecting with alumni during my undergraduate studies and appreciate that the world-class Husky network we have in Seattle (and abroad) can support, advise, and fulfill generations of Huskies. I want to be intimately involved in securing exciting opportunities for the next wave of alumni and sustain these connections.

Sammy Zeer, ’15, ’19, is a proud “Triple Dawg,” having earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Economy and a Juris Doctor (JD) and a Master of Laws (LL.M.) in Tax Law from the University of Washington. In 2019, he was awarded the Meade Emory Endowed Prize in Taxation, recognizing his academic achievements. While at the UW, Sammy was deeply involved in leadership and service, including serving on the ASUW Special Appropriations Committee, mentoring for the Dream Project, and working as a student legal advocate for the Federal Tax Clinic and Immigrant Family Advocacy Project. Through these roles and others, he championed equity, fostered interdisciplinary collaboration and advocated for diverse communities. Sammy began his tax career at KPMG and is now a Global Indirect Tax Manager at Expedia Group. Sammy is eager to continue developing his tax career and making a meaningful impact in his field and beyond. 

Why I Serve: My time at the University of Washington was transformative — shaped by endless opportunities, diverse perspectives, lasting friendships, and intellectual growth within a vibrant community. I feel a responsibility, alongside other alumni, to give back and ensure the UW remains a positive, transformative force in our lives, continuing to inspire and empower current and future students to make a lasting impact on the world. I’m excited to connect with fellow Huskies and collaborate as we work to ensure the UW’s continued success and impact. Go Dawgs! 

What you could accomplish as a GOLD Council member:

• Strengthen the voice of GOLDs! Support the UWAA in ensuring that our GOLD events and programs are aligned with the GOLD communities’ values and interests.
• Grow the alumni community! Encourage your networks to attend UWAA events and programs and become UWAA members.
• Run with the pack! Steward a diverse Husky alumni community that welcomes grads from all walks of life.

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

Eligibility

• Have an active membership with the UW Alumni Association by the start of GOLD Council term.
• Have received a degree or credential from the UW within the last ten years at the time of application.

Requirements

• Attend quarterly GOLD Council meetings (evenings, four times per year).
• Attend annual GOLD Council retreat (once per year).
• Promote and attend three to four UWAA-sponsored events (per year).
• Sit on council working groups, as needed (may require additional meetings).

What are the terms of service?

GOLD Council members serve for a term of two years.

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 the 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.