As the University of Washington’s 2025–26 Student Regent and a doctoral student in the College of Education, polo hernández leads with heart, authenticity and a deep connection to his culture. His journey, from working with tribal communities to serving on the Board of Regents, reflects his belief that true leadership begins with simply showing up as yourself.
Growing up in Basin City, WA, Alejandro experienced the challenges of learning English as a Spanish-speaking student. Now a UW College of Education undergraduate, he’s turning those experiences into a mission to make education more equitable for multilingual learners. Read his inspiring story!
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 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.
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 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.
Happy 2025 Autumn Quarter!
To those of you who are returning EduDawgs, welcome back, and to those of you who are new EduDawgs, we’re excited to have you join our CoE community.
Dr. Dana Nickson, assistant professor of education equity and justice in Leadership, Policy and Politics, is rewriting the story of Black families’ educational agency — one rooted in place, power, and intergenerational resilience.
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.