Partnering for the greater good
The University of Washington is proud to work with Starbucks in a partnership that strengthens our shared vision to serve Washington and the world.
Starbucks is a catalyst for promise and potential and its mission is in lock-step with the UW’s purpose to unleash boundless possibilities for everyone, everywhere — starting with our state. As two historic Seattle institutions, our local partnership emboldens our work for the global good. Together we are uniting our goals and initiatives in education, community outreach and sustainability to propel people — and opportunity.
Our partnership is transforming the lives of students
and all of the people we serve
Unsheltered families
Starbucks and the UW recognize we can do more together. The UW Food Pantry and Starbucks have partnered to combat food insecurity through the collection and redistribution of food from Seattle campus and have diverted more than 50 pounds of Starbucks sandwiches, salads, bread and pastries to students in need. We are also collaborating with the United Way King County, Mary’s Place, Wellspring and other local providers to bring Family Resource Exchanges to campus, providing critical resources and support to students, families and children right here in our UW community. UW Bothell hosted an event in August 2019 with UW Seattle and UW Tacoma slated to host in 2020 – read more about the partnership.
Hometown Heroes
The UW and Starbucks believe those who have served in the military deserve to be celebrated for their service and sacrifice and comes together to recognize heroes from our hometown community! Hometown Heroes are nominated and the UW and Starbucks honor them at Husky Football home games with in-game recognition and a special gift.
Strengthening the student experience
As a global force for innovation, Starbucks inspires leadership development through internship opportunities at the company’s Seattle headquarters and education and mentorship programs like the Environmental Innovation Challenge. As a proud supporter of student life events and adventures, you’ll find Starbucks engaging our community during Dawg Daze, W Day, Veterans Week, and volunteering their time and talents alongside Huskies at projects across Seattle during MLK Week of Service. As a Career Center preferred employer, Starbucks hires Huskies who will learn and grow with the company like Stephen Ramirez, ’15.
Promoting equity and inclusion
Our public mission drives us to serve our state by providing access to opportunities for all. As a global brand, Starbucks shares that commitment and together we put equity and inclusion at the heart of our work. Starbucks is also creating possibilities by providing student scholarships to underrepresented students through the Office of Minority Affairs & Diversity. Read more about Starbucks’ long-standing commitment to inclusion.
Protecting our environment
Environmental sustainability is a core tenet of the mission and values of both the UW and Starbucks. Our shared commitment includes building LEED-certified structures, as well as research and innovation in clean water and climate change. Our work has led to a natural partnership with UW conservationists and students through the Environmental Innovation Challenge as well as Earth Day celebrations. See what happened at the first UW-Starbucks Earth Day of Service at the UW Center for Urban Horticulture.
Looking ahead: Creating moments of connection
The UW is proud of the past, present and future collaborations with Starbucks. Since 2012, we have been combining our time, talent and resources to work for a world of good.