The School of Art + Art History + Design Alumni and Friends Group is an alumni-led dynamic network dedicated to fostering meaningful connections between alumni, students, and the School through engaging events, professional development opportunities, and curated communications.
Our Mission
The Alumni and Friends Group is committed to strengthening our community by:
- Hosting professional development panels and workshops to support students as they transition from the classroom to their careers.
- Organizing an annual sale showcasing and celebrating the creative work of both students and alumni.
- Providing alumni news highlights in the School’s quarterly newsletter to keep our community informed and inspired.
- Supporting and sustaining the Free Materials Library, ensuring students have access to essential creative resources.
- Bringing alumni together through social gatherings, fundraisers, and exclusive events at the Jacob Lawrence Gallery, as well as exhibitions, lectures, and programs at museums and arts organizations in the region.
Whether you’re looking to reconnect, mentor, or simply celebrate the School’s vibrant artistic community, we invite you to be part of the Alumni and Friends Group. Stay engaged, get involved, and help shape the future of our creative legacy!
How do I join the Alumni + Friends Group?
The alumni group is still in the early stages of its creation, with ample opportunities for you as an alum to shape the direction it should take. Please take a moment to complete our brief alumni survey. Your responses will help us better understand our alumni community's diverse achievements, create more meaningful connections between alumni, develop programs that serve your interests, and keep you informed about School news and opportunities.
How do Engage and Connect ?
The Alumni + Friends Group offers opportunities to stay connected through community-building and networking activities. The goal is also to give back through volunteer opportunities. Here are some ways alumni can connect and engage:
Explore opportunities to Connect
Leadership Board Members ( 2025)
- Cassandra Skanes, Fountainhead Gallery Representative
- Hilary Lee, KUOW Project Manager, Office of the President & GM
- Liz Copland, College Edge Program Manager, UW College of Arts and Sciences
- Kate Mortensen, Assistant Director of Development for Arts & Humanities, UW College of Arts & Sciences
- Miha Sarani, Visual Artist and Instructor
- Shael Anderson, Visual Artist and Vice President at Matchbox Mobile
- Cynthia Caci, Assistant Dean, College Advising, UW College of Arts and Sciences
- Judi Clark, Retired Director of Academic Advising
- Julianna Jones, Executive Assistant + Director of Dean’s Office Support Staff, College of Arts and Sciences
- Jerred Mace, CEO of One Court
- Payton Todd, Visual Designer at Studio Matthews