"In my word cloud for Ruby, the words that come to mind are compassionate, dependable, humble, kind, authentic and calm. She listened more than she spoke—but when she did speak, it was with a fierce dedication to justice for children.

I first met Ruby when I interviewed for a faculty position at the University of Washington, where she was leading Jumpstart. From the moment we met, I was captivated by her warmth and authenticity. Over the years, I had the privilege of working closely with her and witnessing her unwavering commitment to equity in education and social justice.

One memory has stayed with me all these years.

One day, I stopped by her office simply to say hello—and, if I'm being honest, to get a little dose of Ruby's love. She was unpacking her lunch and carefully unfolded a beautiful cloth napkin, placing it on her desk as a placemat. I commented on how lovely it was and how unusual it seemed in the middle of a busy workday.

She smiled and said something to the effect of, "You can make any moment special with a little extra care and attention."

I have never forgotten that.

Looking back, I realize this simple gesture captured who Ruby was. She was intentional, caring, thoughtful and effortlessly stylish. Most of all, she understood that people and moments matter. She had a way of making every interaction feel meaningful and every person feel seen.

Ten years later, I still carry that lesson with me. Ruby taught us that justice lives not only in the big things we fight for, but also in the small ways we show up for one another every day—with care, grace and love.

I miss you, Ruby."

"Ruby was a smart, talented and trusted colleague. I first met Ruby when she was leading the Jump Start program at UW. I was impressed. When the National Center on Quality Teaching and Learning was funded by Head Start and we began to build our team, we immediately thought of Ruby. She joined us and spearheaded several projects. Ruby, of course, was passionate about the children and families served by Head Start programs across the country. But, she had a particular passion and a special gift for guiding the teachers and other adults who supported the children and families. She inspired and strengthened them. Ruby’s spirit stays with those of us who knew her."

"Ruby had a passion for literacy - she loved to read. She got her daughter Jazzy a library card when she was less than 5 months old! Her daughter also has a love for reading. She’s especially into manga books right now."

"Ruby, you were the perfect blend of compassion, visionary commitment to doing the right thing, playfulness, and a just the right dash of spice. Your legacy continues to have profound impacts: not only on the student scholars who receive your scholarship, but also on colleagues who carry your inspiring spirit into various work and life pathways today. Your leadership and memory are forever treasured. With love and gratitude for your beautiful smile and unmatched spark."

"Joining Jumpstart was my first introduction to the force that was Ruby Linsao. As a new staff member, she welcomed me with her big smile and warm laugh, but she also quickly became a role model and a friend. While she was always busy - helping students, her family, friends, staying late at work to get everything done, she always made time for you. Her passion for education was infectious, and she was a strong advocate for children through her many roles. Watching her career path, I know she was destined for great things, so it is fitting that even in her passing she has continued to impact so many with the scholarship in her name. She was one of the most thoughtful, present and truly kind people you could ever meet. Once you knew Ruby, you became a part of her community - and we are all the luckier because of it."

"Ruby shared this ‘Purpose’ Venn Purpose Venn diagram as something she used to help her figure out how she wanted to live her life and give back to her community. It became something we shared with our scholarship recipients early on, as a way to invite them into thinking about their own purpose too."

"Working with Ruby and developing a friendship with her was one of the great privileges of my life. Ruby embodied what it means to be present, thoughtful, and connected. While she was younger than I, and at times I was her supervisor, I learned more from Ruby than I taught. I think of her daily, especially in the context of doing work you love and balancing that work with your personal life. I feel sad for what our world lost when we lost Ruby. But I also feel grateful for the gifts she gave in her far too short time with us on this Earth."

"Ruby introduced me to an image that has remained on my office door ever since: three intersecting circles labeled what the world needs, what you are good at, and what you love. At the center, where all three overlap, is a single word: purpose. Whenever I look at it, I think of Ruby. She lived at that intersection. She dedicated her life to advancing educational equity and was a tireless advocate for ensuring that every child enters kindergarten ready to succeed. She had a remarkable gift for inspiring and mobilizing young adults to join that cause, helping them see both the urgency of the work and their own capacity to make a difference. Just as evident as her talent and commitment was her deep love for the mission. You could see it in the joy, energy, and zest she brought to her work every single day. Ruby was truly a shining star, and her legacy continues to light the way for others."

"As background, Ruby went by Roxane to family. She was one of my first cousins, and if you asked either of us growing up, we'd probably say we were "best friend cousins." Our moms were sisters and, among the eight sisters, were probably the "best friend sisters." They immigrated to Toronto together in their 20s, and Rox and I would often say to each other, "Can you imagine? Can you imagine you and me moving to a whole other country without our family?" Thinking about the courage our moms had made us appreciate the bond they shared, and the bond we were lucky enough to carry on in our relationship with each other.

Before Rox moved to Washington, she lived in California and even stayed with my family for a short time. After she moved to Steilacoom, our moms made it a priority that us cousins stayed close. Every summer, my sister and I flew to Washington to spend time with our cousins. These were what kids now call a "90s summer," but it was actually in the 90s, days spent outside, exploring, playing, laughing, and just being together. Because of those summers, I had the privilege of staying close with Rox throughout our lives.

In high school, I remember she was incredibly smart, athletic, and the kind of person who was friends with everyone. Her smile and laugh said it all.

As we got older, we continued to stay close as we built our careers and families. One of my favorite memories was convincing her to go with me to see Oprah speak in Seattle. We didn't get to meet Oprah, but we were inspired by what she had to say about life, the event was called "The Life You Want", and we met Gayle King! I appreciate that Rox was willing to experience this with me, to basically take time and think about the lives we wanted and to dream big, and I love that she was totally up for the adventure on very short notice.

That was one of the qualities I loved most about her. Rox brought an energy that made life more joyful. She was ridiculously positive, always willing to help, and always up for making a memory. Just as importantly, she cared deeply about the families she served through her work. Whenever we talked, it was clear how much she wanted children and families to thrive and how committed she was to making a difference in their lives.

I hope people understand that Rox's legacy isn't just one of achievement, it is one of generosity, joy, and genuine care for others. This scholarship ensures that the compassion she showed every day continues to live on by supporting students who will go on to make the same kind of difference in their own communities. I can't think of a more fitting way to honor who she was."

"I knew Ruby as Roxane — she was my first cousin and just a couple years older than me. Growing up, my mom would send my sister and me from our home in the Bay Area to stay with her family in Washington for the summer. Those summers are some of my favorite childhood memories. It was a time before cell phones and tablets, and we filled our days so completely that I barely remember ever turning on a TV. We’d explore their town on foot, pick blackberries off the side of the road, and even catch the local bus to the Tacoma Mall, completely immersed in just being kids/teens together.

As we transitioned into the busyness of college and adulthood, we naturally saw each other less, but what I loved most about Roxane was that whenever we did reconnect, it was as if no time had passed at all. She possessed a rare, wonderful kindness and she shined so brightly in this world. When you spoke with her, you knew she was truly listening and genuinely cared. That deep capacity for love and service was evident in everything she did — from the way she adored her own growing family, to the passion and dedication she brought to her work helping others."

"Receiving the Ruby Linsao Early Learning Scholarship continues to influence the way I connect with and support young learners. In my work with elementary school students, I use puppets to create a welcoming, playful environment where children feel comfortable expressing themselves and exploring new ideas. By making learning joyful and accessible, I carry Ruby’s spirit forward in my professional and personal life."

"Ruby was a loving friend and joyful mother who understood that small humans deserve the best of our attention and resources. Her legacy is a beacon in a society that too often forgets this. It’s wonderful that her memory helps advance and train the next generation of young adults dedicated to early childhood development."

"During the years that I grew up across the street from my older cousin Rox, I remember her as someone who was kind and full of energy. She was always very thoughtful of me and made me feel included with all of the older cousins and siblings. As we got older and distant, she made the effort to connect with me and it was in those moments that I will remember her most.

My path in life hasn't been the easiest. Yet, during a time in my life where I was at one of my lowest, Rox gave me time, space, a listening ear, and most of all: no judgement. I can remember a moment where I was looking at my older cousin - at the time, already established in her work in education - and feeling like an equal. That's the kind of effect she had. She cared for people genuinely, intentionally, wholeheartedly, and unconditionally.

As I write this, I reflect on where I am today, someone who now also works in education, and I can't help but wonder how much her spirit has guided me in my life. How much good can come from simply treating others with respect, dignity, and kindness. If I can embody even 1% of her spirit, then I know my own work will have mattered."

"Some people leave behind accomplishments; others leave behind a way of being that quietly changes everyone around them. Ruby did both.

She believed deeply that every child deserved to be seen, nurtured, and given the opportunity to flourish. That conviction was not simply the work she did—it was the way she lived. She led with grace rather than fanfare, generosity rather than self-promotion, and a quiet confidence that brought out the very best in others.

In my countless interactions with Ruby, I invariably walked away more joyful, more inspired, and more deeply devoted to the work we shared. She had that rare gift of enlarging the spirit of those around her simply by being herself. I can think of no greater tribute than to carry those same qualities forward—with joy, with purpose, and with an enduring commitment to others. Ruby’s legacy lives not only in the programs she helped build or the children and families whose lives she touched, but in the hearts of the colleagues, friends, and communities she inspired every day. We will miss her deeply, and we will honor her memory by living the values she so beautifully embodied."

"I was honored to receive the Ruby Linsao scholarship during my junior year at the University of Washington. I put off returning to school for so long because of the financial strain that comes with pursuing a degree. Receiving this scholarship eased that burden and allowed me to focus on my education. I’m proud to have graduated with my degree in Early Care and Education in spring 2026.

One of the most meaningful aspects of receiving this scholarship was the opportunity to meet Ruby’s friends and loved ones. Through them I got to learn more about the incredible impact she had on the University of Washington and the early learning community. I am very grateful to have been supported by a scholarship that honors her life and legacy, and I hope to carry that spirit forward through my own work in early care and education. Being a recipient has given me the opportunity to be part of Ruby’s lasting legacy."