Sound Child Care Solutions (SCCS) has announced that they have hired a new Executive Director – Amruta Mane. Amruta is a former teacher who understands the need for an investment in anti-biased learning for children from all backgrounds. In alignment with SCCS’s mission, she firmly believes that this approach to education best sets children up for success later in life.

Children playing at Sound Child Care Solutions

SCCS's mission is closely aligned with my own philosophy of honesty, integrity, accountability, empathy and inclusiveness which guides my endeavors to fostering strong relationships with all children and families, especially those from diverse and financially insecure communities.

In March Issaquah Food & Clothing Bank chose Stephanie Norton-Bredl as their new Executive Director after an extensive search, during which they utilized an interim Executive Director to bridge the gap in leadership. In speaking of her time in the role thus far, Stephanie noted,

Issaquah Food and Clothing Bank staff at an event.

I feel extremely lucky to have the opportunity to serve alongside such an amazing team of staff, volunteers, and supporters. My first two weeks were spent immersed in programming, working side by side with our staff and volunteers. … I’ve met many clients, both here at the food bank and at community events, who have expressed how much our services have meant to their families. ...I’d like to express my gratitude for the warm welcome that I’ve received from our staff, our volunteers, our partners, and supporters. I’m excited about what we will accomplish together in the coming months!

After an extensive national search, the Board of Directors at the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) has selected Michele Y. Smith to be their next Chief Executive Officer. ​Board President, Shaunta Hyde, summarized her choice in saying,

“On behalf of the board and staff, we are excited to bring Michele’s vision, passion, and excellence to MoPOP. Our mission is to make creative expression a life-changing force by offering experiences that inspire and connect our communities. Michele’s background and experience are exactly what we were looking for as we grow in Seattle and the global arts community.

After 10 years of leading Goosefoot the former Executive Director, Sandra Whiting, decided to retire, causing them to look for a new leader to take the helm. Whidbey Island resident, Elise Miller, has been selected to lead the thriving organization into the future. Elise is an experienced nonprofit leader and board member with a genuine love for her community.

A view from above of people standing in the shape of a peace sign.

Having lived on Whidbey since 1998, I’ve been an ardent admirer of Goosefoot's innovative efforts to address many of South Whidbey's most pressing challenges. I couldn’t be more delighted and honored to serve in this capacity—and to get to work with Goosefoot's exceptional staff and board to strategically tackle the next set of priorities.

Tacoma Community House has announced that Aimee Khuu will be their next Executive Director. She begins in the role on January 31, 2023, bringing a passion for the important work that they do as well as extensive professional experience in nonprofit leadership. In speaking of the role ahead of her, Aimee says:

Tacoma Community House team

Equity and social justice have been at the very foundation of my vocation and life journey for the past 20 years. My personal and professional experience has been driven by the belief that the resources exist for all people to thrive, and public private partnership are critical to ensuring equitable access to housing, education and employment.  On a deeply personal level, I know the impact of refugee resettlement. My father arrived to the United States as a refugee from Vietnam, and as the daughter of a refugee, I continue to learn the stories of my family and community. The mission and work of Tacoma Community House aligns perfectly with my life journey, professional experience and life work. I am honored to serve as the Executive Director of Tacoma Community House.

It has been an honor to serve our community by leading Hugo House through its public reckoning with racial equity and helping to implement lasting change in our beloved organization. I know Hugo House will have a bright future with fresh leadership.