In this Q&A, Dr. Jeannine Dingus-Eason reflects on her new book, A Thousand Worries: Black Women Mothering Autistic Sons, a powerful examination of Black mothering, advocacy, and care at the intersections of race, disability, gender, and class. Drawing from scholarship, lived experience, and community narratives, the book centers voices that are too often excluded from dominant conversations about autism.

In this month’s Alumni Spotlight, Dr. Omar Escalera, who was named the inaugural Executive Director of the Broetje Family Trust, reflects on his journey, the values that guide his leadership and his vision for transforming communities across Washington and beyond. Read Dr. Escalera’s Q&A.

Linh Huynh (BA, '19, Education, Communities and Organizations (ECO) and Psychology; MSW, '21), a 2nd-generation Vietnamese-Chinese American and proud Husky, has built a career around cultivating curiosity and connection. After earning her B.A. in Psychology and ECO and her Master’s in Social Work at UW, she helped launch CuriosityBased, where she now serves as Learning and Development Manager. Today, she’s committed to creating learning experiences that invite people in, spark curiosity and honor diverse perspectives, all while staying grounded in the lessons she first explored at the College of Education.

The University of Washington College of Education launched a new Early Childhood Policy specialization within its Educational Foundations, Leadership and Policy (EDFLP) Master’s program to develop leaders who can shape equitable early learning systems. In this spotlight, we introduce Elsie De La Rosa, whose personal journey, from growing up in her family’s in-home childcare program to advocating for immigrant families, drives her commitment to transforming early childhood policy at both state and federal levels.

The University of Washington College of Education launched a new Early Childhood Policy specialization within its Educational Foundations, Leadership and Policy (EDFLP) Master’s program to cultivate leaders who can shape equitable early learning systems. In this spotlight, we introduce Raishawn Swensen, a passionate advocate whose lived experience and drive to empower Black families are fueling her journey into policy leadership.

The University of Washington College of Education launched a new Early Childhood Policy specialization within its Educational Foundations, Leadership and Policy (EDFLP) Master’s program to prepare leaders for equitable change in early learning systems. In this spotlight, we introduce Ruth Ayodeji, a member of the inaugural cohort whose lived experience and passion for educational justice are shaping her journey into policy leadership.

The University of Washington College of Education launched a new Early Childhood Policy specialization within its Educational Foundations, Leadership and Policy (EDFLP) Master’s program to prepare leaders for equitable change in early learning systems. In this spotlight, we introduce Rebecca Campbell, a member of the inaugural cohort whose decade of hands-on experience fuels her passion for advocacy and systemic transformation.

In our latest alumni spotlight, Dr. Ben Gauyan (EdD, ’09) shares what excites him about leading Walla Walla Public Schools, the throughline of his leadership journey, and how his L4L experience continues to shape his approach. From staying grounded by centering students to finding joy in family, music and sports, Dr. Gauyan offers thoughtful reflections on leadership and balance.

Dr. Emily Holm Tobin (Ph.D., '24, Learning Sciences and Human Development) is uncovering the surprising ways families learn and grow together in museums, zoos, and other informal spaces. With a unique background in history, archaeology and museum studies, she’s bringing fresh insights to early learning, showing how everyday family outings can nurture connection, curiosity and compassion.

Dr. Becky Clifford, a graduate of UW’s Leadership for Learning (L4L) program, has been named superintendent of the South Whidbey School District. With over 20 years in public education and a strong focus on equity, inclusion, and special education, Dr. Clifford brings compassionate, community-centered leadership to her new role. Read the full Q&A to learn more about her leadership journey, reflections on her time in Anacortes, and the impact of her L4L experience.