Edmonds Community College Foundation
Foundation Board Members
- Ruth Arista - Chair
- Steve Pennington - Vice Chair
- Diana Clay - Treasurer
- Jean Sittauer - Secretary
- Vaughn Sherman - Past Chair
- Cheryl Arford
- Mark Bailey
- Nils Bajczuk
- Ken Chandler
- Nicholas Echelbarger
- Doug Fair
- Randy Goodwin
- Kevin Hanchett
- Libby Lewis
- Chris Loos
- Michael P. Meiers
- Karen Miller
- Dean Nichols
- Meg Rankin
- MaryAnn Sailors
- Margaret Setchfield
- Paull Shin
- Carol Wood
Emeritus:
Ex Officio:
Board of Trustees Liaisons:
Executive Committee
Foundation Board - Chair
Co-owner and Operator - Arista Wine Cellars
Foundation Board member since May 2001
Committees: Executive, Auction (Wine Procurement chair)
Ruth joined us after being affiliated with the Board since 1999 as a member of the Auction Committee. Ruth and her husband David own Arista Wine Cellars, a specialty wine shop in Edmonds.
A Northwest native, Ruth attended Lakeside School in Seattle and Lake Forest College near Chicago. She spent three years in Texas as a member of the United States Modern Pentathlon Team. Ruth was U.S. National Champion in 1983 and a member of the U.S. Women's World Teams in 1982, 1983 and 1984. Ruth has worked in the restaurant business and as a freelance writer. She and David live in Edmonds.
“The Edmonds Community College Foundation supports the community of families and the desire to learn. Whatever I can do to enhance that is important to me.”
Foundation Board - Vice Chair
Executive Manager, Retired - The Boeing Company
Foundation Board member since January 1999
Committees: Executive, Scholarship, Culinary Major Gift Initiative
Steve is our 2002 Distinguished Alumnus. After graduating from Edmonds High School, Steve served four years in the Air Force as an airframe mechanic in Vietnam. When he returned from active duty, Steve began working at The Boeing Company while continuing his military service as a reservist. He graduated with an Associates of Arts degree from Edmonds Community College, and is an alumnus of Central Washington University. He retired from the Air Force Reserves as a Chief Master Sergeant.
He devotes his time to some of his favorite things, including riding his new BMW touring motorcycle. Steve has been married to Jean for more than 30 years. They enjoy visiting their children and grandchildren.
Foundation Board - Treasurer
Co-owner & Managing Member - Clay Enterprises, LLC
Foundation Board member since January 1997
Committees: Executive, Finance (chair), Grants, Real Estate, Auction, Events, Culinary Major Gift Initiative
Diana is co-owner and managing member of Clay Enterprises, LLC, a family business involved in real estate development, investments, management and leasing, primarily in the South Snohomish County area. Diana began working in her family business in 1974 -- the same year she took classes at Edmonds Community College.
She has served chair of the board of directors of Prime Pacific Bank and as a board member of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Snohomish County. Diana has a passion for the culinary arts and teaches cooking classes as a hobby. She and her husband Michael enjoy spending time with their children and grandchildren at their cabin at Lake Kachess. Diana has lived in the Lynnwood area since 1955.
“Being involved with the Foundation is very rewarding because I get to see how what we do translates into opportunity for so many people.”
Foundation Board - Secretary
Realtor - Coldwell Banker Bain
Foundation Board member since August 2002
Committees: Executive, Grants, Advocacy, Real Estate, Auction, Events
Jean graduated from the Medical Assisting program at Edmonds Community College and went on to become an office manager for different medical practices in Everett and Edmonds. She eventually began her own company, which established bookkeeping and collection systems in medical practices. Her community volunteer activities include participating in the James G. Murphy Auctions, working as the Auction Coordinator for the Holy Rosary Parish and School Auction and work with the Little Red School House, including its Children’s Village, and the Holy Rosary School Board.
Jean was born and raised in Edmonds. She enjoys spending time gardening and landscaping, bike riding and playing the piano. Her family, including husband Fred Gouge and their sons, enjoys boating, fishing, crabbing and shrimping.
"I believe that affordable access to higher education should be available to anyone who wants to continue their educational goals. I was thankful for having the opportunity to attend Edmonds CC after graduating from Edmonds High School and look forward to helping others with the Foundation's support of scholarships and educational opportunities.”
Foundation Board - Past Chair
Consultant - Association of Community College Trustees
Foundation Board member since June 1996
Committees: Executive, Finance, Advocacy
Vaughn was the Council for Resource Development's 2006 Benefactor of the Year! He served on the college’s Board of Trustees from 1981 until 1996, when the Foundation successfully recruited him to serve on its Board. Prior to his work with community colleges, Vaughn was a fisheries biologist and an operations officer with the Central Intelligence Agency. He is a graduate of the University of Washington and holds a BA in Zoology.
As a consultant for the Association of Community College Trustees, Vaughn has made presentations and conducted retreats in most of the states supporting community college systems.
Returning to Edmonds in 1974, Vaughn became active in various community services and is currently a certified mediator for the Dispute Resolution Center. He and his wife, Janice Lind-Sherman, have eight children and nine grandchildren. In his rare spare time, Vaughn enjoys boating and digital photography.
“The guiding principle of the Foundation - helping the college prepare the community for the challenges of tomorrow is what brought me to the board.”
Members
Teacher, Retired - Edmonds School District
Foundation Board member since September 2008
“I've seen what can happen for people and their lives when they are given the proper tools to succeed. I can't imagine what could be more gratifying than to continue with that advocacy.”
Attorney - Beresford Booth PLLC
Foundation Board member since April 2008
Committees: Audit, Golf
A resident of Edmonds for seven years with wife Deanna, Mark received his law degree from the University of Washington and is an attorney with Beresford Booth in Edmonds. He is also currently on the board of Everett Golf and Country Club.
Mark enjoys golf, guitar and music and received his undergrad degree from Berklee College of Music.
“Education is the key to success for our community , and I want to help make Edmonds Community College a first-class facility, accessible by deserving students of modest means.”
Vice President and Commercial Loan Officer - Citybank, Lynnwood
Foundation Board member since September 2006
Committees: Audit, Finance, Culinary Major Gift Initiative
An alumnus of Edmonds Community College, Nils joined our Board after having attended our auction and golf tournament events. His experience in finance and as a fundraiser for Junior Achievement and his many contacts in the community bring valuable expertise to the Foundation.
He and his wife Sandra, an elementary school teacher, live in Mukilteo. In his spare time, Nils enjoys tinkering on vintage cars and playing golf.
“I believe that community colleges are playing a larger role than ever in planting a strong foundation for people’s careers.”
Vice President, Operations - Premera Blue Cross
Foundation Board member since January 2007
Committees: Grants, Audit, Culinary Major Gift Initiative
Ken has over 17 years experience in the health insurance industry. He has held senior leadership positions with several large, multi-state insurance carriers, been responsible for overseeing operations with hundreds of employees, and designed and implemented processes to establish efficient and cost effective work environments. He received his bachelor of science in accounting from San Francisco State University. Ken is a certified fraud examiner and a certified internal auditor.
Ken and his wife Leslie moved to Edmonds in 2002. Ken is active with the City of Edmonds Community Outreach Committee. His hobbies include fishing, snowboarding, golf, traveling and wine collecting.
"I joined the Foundation Board because I believe this group can help strengthen the community by supporting the key aspects of the College, allowing for endless possibilities to make a lasting difference."
Vice President - The Echelbarger Co.
Managing Partner - Echelbarger Capital, Real Estate Fund I
Foundation Board member since June 2008
A 2004 graduate of Amherst College, Nick brings a fresh outlook to the board. He is also the annual fund class chair at Lakeside School, his high school alma matter and currently works in various family businesses.
"Edmonds CC is one of the most effective local resources to help people change their destiny.”
Judge - Edmonds Municipal Court
Foundation Board member since May 2000
Committees: Membership & Retention, Golf
Doug is the past president of the Snohomish County Bar Association and helped to incorporate the Edmonds Police Foundation. He served as the chair of the Washington State Bar Association Bar Leaders Conference and on the Long-Range Planning Committee. Doug received his bachelor of arts in communications from the University of Washington and his law degree from the University of Oregon.
Doug has been in Edmonds since 1985. He and his wife, Snohomish County Superior Court Judge Ellen Fair, are active in their children’s school activities. Doug also enjoys hiking, skiing, sailing, golf, cribbage and contract bridge.
“My personal and professional success started with a good education. I am happy to be part of an organization that provides opportunities for others to achieve their dreams.”
Vice President of Client Relations - Washington Capital Management
Foundation Board member since September 2006
Committees: Scholarship, Golf, Auction, Culinary Major Gift Initiative
Randy’s role at Washington Capital Management and his experience volunteering and fundraising for programs as diverse as the Y.M.C.A. and the Northwest Association of Administrators brings valuable expertise to the Board
Randy attended Highline Community College and Washington State University. He and his wife, Yvette, live in Seattle with their two children. As a community college alum, Randy has a personal interest and appreciation for the high quality of a community college education.
“My experiences in a community college environment, why I went to one and my success in business, are invaluable for my understanding of the importance of Edmonds Community College.”
Of Counsel - Lasher Holzapfel Sperry & Ebberson, PLLC
Foundation Board member since October 2006, 1996-1998
Committees: Golf, Events, Culinary Major Gift Initiative, Auction
An Edmonds High School graduate, Kevin attended Shoreline Community College and the University of Washington. He graduated from the University of Puget Sound School of Law in 1986. Kevin’s wife, Liz Murata, was an instructor at the Edmonds Community College for more than two decades. Kevin also taught at our college part-time over the years, and has often been a guest lecturer. He and his wife live in Edmonds.
“Helping our college prepare the community for the challenges of tomorrow -- with scholarships for students, support for the college, its faculty, staff and facilities and advocacy for the college -- is why I choose to be part of the Board.”
Project Manager - Boeing Commercial Airplanes Export Compliance Team, Retired - The Boeing Company
Foundation Board member since February 2007
Committees: Grants, Scholarship, Auction, Events, Theatre Major Gift Initiative, Culinary Major Gift Initiative
Libby has worked in management and other positions at Boeing for more than 25 years. Her work with the Boeing Employees Community Fund and Big Brothers/Big Sisters in Seattle and Wichita has given her a wide range of experiences that will greatly benefit the Foundation Board.
A graduate of Moses Lake High School and Western Washington University, Libby lives with her husband, David Traugott, in Edmonds. They enjoy traveling and attending local cultural, theater and musical events.
“I like the mission statement of the Board- that it starts with the students, but also includes all of the elements critical for success.”
Community Volunteer
Foundation Board member since April 2003
Committees: Membership & Retention (co-chair), Grants, Advocacy, Auction, Events, Culinary Major Gift Initiative (chair)
Chris, a Seattle native, is currently retired. She lives in downtown Edmonds. Chris is very active in the community, having worked with the Edmonds Arts Festival, Olympic Ballet Board Support and Edmonds Historical Museum.
Chris enjoys gardening and has started horticulture classes at Edmonds Community College. She also enjoys spending creative time in her art studio. She and her husband, Jack, enjoy traveling, entertaining and being grandparents.
“One person can do something that will make a difference for a student, the college and the South Snohomish area. The payoff for all of the hard work is the student who wouldn’t have the chance to attend college that gets the opportunity through the efforts of the Foundation. My goal is to expand the Foundation’s mission, reaching out to involve more of the community in our work with the college.”
Dentist - Silver Lake Family Dental Clinic
Foundation Board member since April 2005
Committees: Scholarship, Membership & Retention, Golf, Culinary Major Gift Initiative
After graduating from Kennewick High School in the Tri-Cities, Mike attended Columbia Basin College before transferring to Central Washington University to earn a bachelor’s in biology. He received his doctorate of dental science from the University of Washington. Mike enjoys travel, wine collecting, golf, skiing, and boating. Mike and his wife, Anne, live with their two boys in Edmonds.
“I feel it is important for students to have the opportunity to complete college. Financial burdens may make that very difficult to achieve. The scholarships provided by the Foundation will make it possible for many of these students to continue their studies.”
Former Edmonds Community College Trustee and Former Snohomish County Council Member
Foundation Board member since January 2001
Committees: Audit, Auction, Membership & Retention, Advocacy, Theatre Major Gift Initiative
Karen served on Edmonds Community College’s Board of Trustees for 22 years. She had the honor of being appointed and reappointed by four different governors. She served as chairman of that Board for four terms, and as president of the Trustees Association of Community and Technical Colleges for the state of Washington. Karen was "Trustee of the Year" for 1993/1994. She also served for seven years on the Snohomish County Council, two years as its chairman, and six years on the Municipal Research Services Corporation, two years as its president.
Currently, Karen serves as chairman of the Washington State Housing Finance Commission, which she was appointed to in 1997, and the president of the National Council of State Housing Boards. In addition, she serves as chair of the Citizens Oversight Panel for Sound Transit and on the board of the Snohomish County Public Defenders. Karen has been married to Jim for more than 50 years. They enjoy visiting their children and grand and great-grand children.
“Having been involved with Edmonds Community College since 1978, I have developed a passion for what is being done here and at the other community colleges in this state, and I want to be part of it.”
Partner, Retired - Accenture
Foundation Board member since February 2007
Committees: Finance, Audit
Dean’s extensive volunteer experience includes being Chairman of the Budget Committee for the Whitman College Board of Overseers, the Edmonds United Methodist church finance committee and the Board for Inroads of Puget Sound.
A graduate of Whitman College in Walla Walla, Dean earned his M.B.A. at the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. He was the recipient of a Woodrow Wilson Fellowship at Fisk University in Nashville. Dean and his wife, Carla, live in Woodway where they enjoy tennis, golf, skiing and sailing. They travel extensively in the Mediterranean on their sailboat.
“I serve on the Edmonds Community College Foundation Board because I believe in the power of education in bettering peoples’ lives. I strongly support the Foundation’s focus on scholarships as a way to improve the access to higher education.”
Co-owner and Operator - J. Rankin Jewellers
Foundation Board member since September 2008
“I feel everyone is entitled to an education and the college, with its teachers and leaders, need all the support we can give them.”
Controller - Chermak Construction
Foundation Board member since September 2008
Committees: Finance
MaryAnn brings over 25 years of experience in corporate America to the Foundation. She’s held senior management positions in the financial services, banking, biotech and construction industries. In 1997 MaryAnn started, and became part owner with her husband, of an electrical contracting company in San Francisco, California.
Born and raised in New Jersey, MaryAnn graduated from Morris County College, Drexel University and she earned an M.B.A in Finance from the University of San Francisco. MaryAnn is a member of Toastmasters and enjoys travel and the outdoors.
“By helping someone attain success, you are innately helping the community and instilling in that person the strong values that Edmonds Community College represents.”
Clinical Professor, Retired - University of Puget Sound
Foundation Board member since January 2007
Committees: Grants, Scholarship, Theatre Major Gift Initiative, Auction
A former high-school principal in the Lake Washington School District, Margaret was a clinical professor at the University of Puget Sound. She was twice president of the Washington Council for Educational Administration Graduate Programs, president of the Community Advisory Board for Tacoma Principals, and she was a member of the community committee for the Tacoma Public School’s study of vocational education. At the University of Puget Sound, she chaired the Professional Education Advisory Board for Educational Leadership, along with serving on numerous educational and community-related boards and committees.
A graduate of Ellensburg High School, the University of Washington and Central Washington University, she earned her master's degree at the University of Washington. Margaret lives in Edmonds.
“Scholarships that a college can offer students are extremely important. It is important to build sufficient funds so that the development of a scholarship program may honor need, diversity and excellence.”
State Senator - 21st District
Foundation Board member since January 1999
Committees: none at this time
Senator Shin taught at Shoreline Community College for 26 years and is currently the state senator for the 21st legislative district, which includes Edmonds Community College. Shin serves as the ranking member on the Economic Development Committee and as a member of the Higher Education Committee. He is active in bringing international trade to the area and has served on the Governor’s Council on International Trade, Blue Ribbon Study on Washington Trade, and the Governor’s Commission on Asian American Affairs.
Shin, who was adopted by an American GI during the Korean War and brought to the United States by his adoptive family, began his education with a GED. He now holds a Ph.D. in History from the University of Washington, as well as a master's of public affairs and master's of public and international affairs from the University of Pittsburgh. He and his wife, Donna, have lived in Edmonds for more than 30 years. They have two children and five grandsons.
“I believe in education. The Edmonds Community College Foundation is part and parcel of my commitment to the college itself. The guiding principle of the Foundation ‘Helping the college prepare the community for the challenges of tomorrow’ is what brought me to the board.”
Sales Manager, Retired
Foundation Board member since September 2003
Committees: Finance, Grants, Auction, Events, Membership & Retention
Carol is a retired sales manager who worked in the commercial office furnishings and mobile storage industries. She earned a bachelor of arts from Elmhurst College and has done post-graduate work in business management. She served on the Board of the Seattle Association of Records Managers and Administrators and is active in the Edmonds Community College’s Creative Retirement Institute.
Carol, whose husband Bill is an attorney, enjoys tennis, photography, art and traveling. Originally from Chicago, she has lived in Edmonds for more than 26 years.
“I serve on the Edmonds Community College Foundation board because it provides a meaningful opportunity to work for the betterment of our community.”
Emeritus
Lawyer, President & Principal - Beresford, Booth PLLC
Emeritus Member; Foundation Board member September 1994 - January 2008
A lawyer, Dick is the president and principal of Beresford, Booth PLLC in Edmonds. Dick received his bachelor of art in finance from the University of Washington and his law degree from Willamette University. He provides legal counsel to the Foundation pro bono and is the resident expert on the foundation property investments.
Dick has lived in Edmonds for more than thirty-five years. He and his wife Pam, a former Edmonds school-teacher, have two children and two grandchildren. They enjoy the outdoors, golfing and boating.
“My wife is a teacher and we can see how difficult it is to get an education with different family circumstances. The community has to take over when the government does not have the means.”
CEO - Pull A Part
Foundation Board member since June 2002
Committees: Finance, Scholarship, Advocacy, Culinary Major Gift Initiative
Steve is the CEO of Lynnwood-based Pull A Part, a family business now in its third generation. Established fifty years ago, the company is one of the largest auto recycling operations in the Northwest. Steve’s business generously created a vehicle donation program for the Foundation.
A Washington native and long-time Rotary member, Steve is an alumnus of Edmonds Community College who served on the South County Chamber Board of Directors and the Stevens Hospital Foundation Board. Steve and his wife Donna live in Mill Creek. Steve enjoys biking, hiking, golf and visiting his children and grandchildren throughout the Edmonds area.
“I am on the board because I have a strong desire to help others succeed. I believe the quickest way to success is through education, which the college can provide with the foundation’s help. It gives me an opportunity to give back to the community that has given me and my family so much.”
