UW News

January 28, 2024

UW community mourns passing of civic leader Nancy Evans

Nancy Bell Evans.

Nancy Bell Evans.

The University of Washington community is mourning the passing of Nancy Bell Evans – a supporter of education, health care, and arts and culture, and someone who brought energy, grace, and passion to public and nonprofit service.

“Nancy was a true civic leader who dedicated her life to helping others, including UW students and the state we all serve. She was not only a supporter of the UW’s Evans School, she was an inspiration to the many students who will follow her footsteps into public service. Nancy’s advocacy for early childhood education has benefitted countless Washington children, and her work supporting health care – from cancer care to public health efforts – has helped so many people live healthier, longer lives. And Nancy’s support for the arts and historic preservation, including preserving the Governor’s Mansion, has brought so much joy and beauty to our state. Nancy’s passion was boundless and she combined intelligence with heart in everything she did. Our thoughts are with Governor Evans and all of Nancy’s family and loved ones as we mourn the loss of a remarkable woman,” said President Ana Mari Cauce.

“As a newcomer to the Pacific Northwest, Nancy welcomed me with open arms and shared poignant stories about nonprofits and politics, here and in D.C. She and her family represent the best tradition of deep dialogue and discussion that helps us work across our differences for the good of us all,” said Jodi Sandfort, Dean of the Daniel J. Evans School of Public Policy & Governance.

Evans currently served on the UW Foundation Board and the Dean’s Council at the Daniel J. Evans School of Public Policy & Governance.  She also was on the visiting committee of the School of Public Health, as well as an honorary co-chair of the Evans School’s campaign.

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