Wendi Lindquist, Author at Evans School of Public Policy & Governance

NextGen SPA Profile: Andrea Gutierrez Hernandez

Pronouns: She/Her
Hometown: Kelso, Washington
College/University: Gonzaga University
Major: Business Law and Public Policy

Tell us a little about yourself?

I’ve always been passionate about helping others, which is why I’ve held various leadership roles, including National Honor Society President and class VP in high school. In college, I’m currently the treasure for the Women’s Network at Gonzaga. While I initially entered as an engineering student, I realized my true passion lies in law. Outside of academics, I love playing pickleball, hanging out with friends, and enjoying the outdoors.

What is your dream job? What kind of impact do you hope to make?

My dream job is to work in the behavioral analysis unit, but more realistically to be an immigration attorney.

If you could have dinner with anyone in the world (deceased or alive), who would it be and why?

If I could have dinner with anyone in the world, it would be Ruth Bader Ginsburg. I’d love the chance to hear firsthand about her experiences on the Supreme Court and the challenges she faced. I would also really enjoy meeting one of my greatest inspirations and learning from her directly.

Who is your favorite public servant and why?

My favorite public servant is AOC because of her confidence and intelligence. She’s incredibly well educated and advocates for important causes.

NextGen SPA Profile: Chrystal Gonzales

Pronouns: She/Her
Hometown: Federal Way, Washington
College/University: University of Washington
Major: Education

Tell us a little about yourself?

Academics: I graduate in May 2025 with my AA: Interdisciplinary Studies: Art and Humanities, Interdisciplinary Studies: Social and Behavioral Sciences, History, and Gender Studies with Honors across subjects. I graduate from UWT in Education with High Honors in Spring 2026.
Interests: I volunteered at CERT, Federal Way Public School District, and trying for CERT under Homeland Security. I also am involved in Red Cross, South King Fire, and KCHA. As well as many side adventures and projects.

What is your dream job? What kind of impact do you hope to make?

Political representative of fair and equitable education. I hope to help all people become more equal.

If you could have dinner with anyone in the world (deceased or alive), who would it be and why?

Anyone that witness the fall of a nation via war in at any time/place in the world.

Who is your favorite public servant and why?

There is no one person. We all can be great public servants in our own way.

NextGen SPA Profile: Annie Foo

Pronouns: She/Her
Hometown: Point Pleasant Beach, New Jersey
College/University: UC Berkeley
Major: Political Science; Environmental Economics and Policy

Tell us a little about yourself?

I am currently a UC Berkeley student, pursuing a simultaneous degree in Political Science (BA) and Environmental Economics and Policy (BS). I’m really passionate about organizing in social and environmental justice spheres. I love gardening, film, comedy, and music. I’m interested in using policy as a tool to create change in systematic inequalities rather than a driver of them.

What is your dream job? What kind of impact do you hope to make?

Host of the Daily Show, using a platform to education and call people to action, while also providing comedic relief.

If you could have dinner with anyone in the world (deceased or alive), who would it be and why?

Timothee Chalamet just because I love him. I want to ask him questions on navigating life and feeling like your destined for greatness.

Who is your favorite public servant and why?

Grace Lee Boggs, I don’t think there are many Chinese American activists who are noted for their work. I am really inspired by her work

NextGen SPA Profile: Samir Faruq

Pronouns: He/Him
Hometown: St. Louis, Missouri
College/University: University of Washington
Major: Biochemistry and Chemistry

Tell us a little about yourself?

Hello! My name is Samir Faruq and I am majoring in both biochemistry and chemistry with a minor in human rights. I currently attend the University of Washington and am on the pre-med track. I am interested in the intersectionality of medicine and policy. In my free time I like to do origami, thrift shopping, try new recipes, and go bird watching.

What is your dream job? What kind of impact do you hope to make?

I want to be a doctor that not only treats patients with the power of modern medicine, but also understands structural and cultural experiences that shape one’s health

Who is your favorite public servant and why?

Malala Yousafzai. Her drive for girl’s rights to education is admirable and she doesn’t let anything stop her from standing up for what’s right.

NextGen SPA Profile: Christopher Escobedo

Pronouns: El/They
Hometown: Lakewood, Washington
College/University: University of Washington
Major: Law and Policy and Criminal Justice

Tell us a little about yourself?

My name is Christopher Michael Escobedo. I am a Civil Rights leader with LULAC, a current student at University of Washington Tacoma and most importantly a father of five. I am a Pierce County Arts Commissioner. I am the President of MEChA de UWT which is the Chicano Movement for students. I have earned an Associate’s Degree in Kinesiology with honors from Pierce College at Fort Steilacoom. I am here to serve.

What is your dream job? What kind of impact do you hope to make?

As the President of the United States of America I would hope to persuade Americans to end racism and slavery. I would also push for the United States to sign the Human Rights treaties created throughout the world. Once we end colonialism then we shall see a long lasting world peace.

If you could have dinner with anyone in the world (deceased or alive), who would it be and why?

Jesus Christ. I would ask him how we should proceed with the Revolution he began over 2000 years ago.

Who is your favorite public servant and why?

Bernie Sanders is my favorite because his platform comes from MLK and the Civil Rights movement.

NextGen SPA Profile: Tamiyah Dubose

Pronouns: She/Her
Hometown: Montgomery, Alabama
College/University: Fisk University
Major: Criminal Justice

Tell us a little about yourself?

From Montgomery, Alabama, I’m Tamiyah Dubose, a junior majoring in criminal justice who has a love for purpose and a compassion for people. Because I think that advocacy, empathy, and being there for those who need help the most are powerful, I’m pursuing a career as a social worker. I’ve always felt that words have the ability to inspire, heal, and unite people, so when I’m not concentrating on my education or volunteer work, you can find me engaged in reading or creating poetry.

What is your dream job? What kind of impact do you hope to make?

My dream job is to be a school social worker with the goal of helping students learn more about who they are and to provide them with opportunities that they may not be able to achieve on their own.

If you could have dinner with anyone in the world (deceased or alive), who would it be and why?

Maya Angelou because of her powerful stories told through her poetry.

Who is your favorite public servant and why?

My favorite public servant is Jasmine Crockett because she continues to advocate for what she believes is right even in the midst of adversity.

NextGen SPA Profile: Emmy Chaviano

Pronouns: She/Her
Hometown: Miami, Florida
College/University: Florida International University
Major: Psychology

Tell us a little about yourself?

Bilingual psychology undergraduate student with a strong foundation in administration, accounting, and customer service. Adept at problem solving, organization, and communication, with a proven ability to handle high pressure environments while maintaining accuracy. Engaged in university organizations and public service initiatives, preparing for a future in public administration. Seeking opportunities to apply and expand knowledge in the field of public service.

What is your dream job? What kind of impact do you hope to make?

My dream job is to hold a managerial administrative position in any level of government, but hopefully in my county. I want to help improve how Miami-Dade County serves the community by making things more efficient, organized, and accessible

If you could have dinner with anyone in the world (deceased or alive), who would it be and why?

If I could have dinner with anyone, it would be Michelle Obama. I’d love to hear about her experiences in public service and get advice on leadership and how to make a difference in the community.

Who is your favorite public servant and why?

My favorite public servant is the mayor of Miami-Dade County, Daniella Levine Cava. She truly works hard to make positive changes.

NextGen SPA Profile: Amy Perez

Pronouns: She/Her
Hometown: Quito, Ecuador
College/University: CUNY Baruch College
Major: Public Affairs
Minor: Political Science and Anthropology

Tell us a little about yourself?

I was born in the US, but I grew up in Ecuador until my 18 years old. I moved alone to NYC three years ago. It has been challenging to be here alone, but I am happy that I am accomplishing my dreams. I have been always passionate to help others. I love art and all the ways it is developed. I like watching movies. I like swimming and when I was in high school I was in the swimming team. My dream is to be CEO of a non-profit organization that I will create to help vulnerable communities.

What is your dream job? What kind of impact do you hope to make?

My dream has always been to help others. My dream job is to be the CEO of a non-profit I want to create to help vulnerable communities. I want to help people around the world working for international organizations, be a social worker, work for government offices so I can create programs that can help people and also the environment.

If you could have dinner with anyone in the world (deceased or alive), who would it be and why?

Eugenio Derbez because some of his movies leave the audience with great life messages that make us reflect on some world problems such as his movie “Radical” and I would like to know what motivates him to do those movies and what is he doing to continue sharing that message in real life.

Who is your favorite public servant and why?

Senator Julia Salazar from NYC senate district 18th. She is my favorite public servant because she is always advocating for vulnerable communities.

Celebrating a 2025 Husky 100 Honoree

Christopher Brathwaite’s Journey of Advocacy, Leadership, and Global Impact

The University of Washington’s prestigious Husky 100 annual award recognizes students dedicated to community impact, innovative thinking, and inclusive leadership. Among this year’s honorees is Christopher Brathwaite, a second-year Master of Public Administration student at the Evans School and Fulbright Scholar from Saint James, Barbados. Christopher’s journey exemplifies resilience, global perspective, public service, and diplomacy.

Journey to Evans

Growing up in Barbados, Christopher developed a deep belief in community strength. Determined to pursue public policy, he received support from the Fulbright U.S. Student Program. After careful research and conversations with faculty, Christopher chose the Evans School for its strong academic reputation, global rankings, and demonstrated commitment to student success.

Finding Belonging and Community

Transitioning to life in Seattle was challenging for Christopher, who experienced culture shock, isolation, and impostor syndrome. “In Seattle, I often didn’t see people who looked like me,” he noted. However, the Evans School’s commitment to inclusivity was evident in the support he received, as faculty engaged him and other international students, integrating their perspectives into the U.S.-centric course materials.

Christopher found belonging through the International Student Association and the Evans People of Color group. “Joining these groups was a turning point; I started seeing more of myself in those around me,” he reflects.

An Essential Pillar of Support

Kate Sykes, MPA ‘19, the Director of Student Services at the Evans School, has been a crucial support for Christopher throughout his academic journey. He describes her as more than an administrator; she’s a mentor who has helped him navigate academic and personal challenges. “Kate is amazing,” he says. “She’s a listener and a guide.” While many have helped him, Kate stands out the most. She even took the initiative to nominate Christopher for the Husky 100 award, rallying support from faculty for his nomination.

Significant Achievements

Christopher’s achievements embody the core values of the Husky 100 award. His summer 2024 internship as a graduate attaché at the Embassy of Barbados in Washington, D.C., funded by the The Elaine Chang Endowed Fellowship for International Peace & Development and The Paul M. Rucker Fellowship for International Education, allowed him to contribute to foreign policy responses and strengthen ties between his home country, the U.S., and the Organization of American States. Aspiring to be a foreign service officer since age 16, he understands the importance of diplomacy for his island nation.

Beyond internships and the classroom, Christopher leads the Black Graduate Student Association and, as former Co-Chair of the Evans International Student Association, ensures all students feel supported. He also helped create the Evans School International Student Handbook, a vital resource for the international student community.

Advice for International Students

Christopher offers heartfelt advice for international students struggling with isolation or impostor syndrome: “Take up space. You belong here, even if you don’t always feel that way. Enjoy yourself and seize every opportunity because you won’t be in such a position again. There is a seat at the table waiting for you. Use it to shift the narrative.”

Guidance for Future Public Servants

Christopher often reflects on a powerful question posed by Barbados’ first Prime Minister, Errol Barrow: “What kind of mirror image do you see of yourself?” Christopher stresses that public service is one of the noblest responsibilities, requiring mindfulness in every decision, action, and document signed. He is profoundly aware of this responsibility and is deeply committed to foreign affairs and public service.

Looking Ahead: A Career in Foreign Affairs

Christopher’s vision extends far beyond his time at Evans. Inspired by mentors such as Ms. Donna Forde, François Jackman, and Simone Rudder, he aspires to become a foreign service officer and diplomat. He aims to eventually serve as Barbados’ Permanent Representative at the UN and, perhaps, as the Director General of Foreign Affairs for Barbados. Christopher intends to leverage the experiences and connections he has developed through Evans and Fulbright to benefit Barbados.

A Personal Reflection

Reflecting on his Husky 100 recognition, Christopher emphasizes that the honor symbolizes his personal achievements and the Evans School’s unwavering support. “This award confirms that I belong at Evans,” he says humbly. “It’s an acknowledgment of Evans’ investment in me.”

He is excited to move back to Barbados after graduation, having missed his family and friends for the past two years. He has a special connection to the beach, filled with cherished memories from weekends spent with his family and grandmother. As her youngest grandchild, he fondly remembers her advice to “stay in church and stay in school.” While everyone calls him Christopher, his grandmother was the only one who calls him “Topher,” a nickname he treasures.

Celebrating Excellence

Christopher’s narrative illustrates the profound impact one can have through dedicated service, resilience, and a global perspective. His recognition as a 2025 Husky 100 honoree is a testament to his exceptional contributions and the supportive community that shaped his UW experience.

We congratulate Christopher Brathwaite on this well-deserved honor and eagerly anticipate his continued public policy and diplomacy success.

Want to show your support? Feel free to share your congratulations or connect with Christopher to learn more about his journey.

NextGen Summer Policy Academy Launch

Photo of students walking outside of Parrington Hall next to a photo of U.S. Capitol building

This summer, the Volcker Alliance NextGen Summer Policy Academy is launching with 76 emerging public service leaders hosted by the Evans School and our partners at the University of California, Berkeley’s Goldman School of Public Policy and the University of Minnesota’s Humphrey School of Public Affairs.

The NextGen Summer Policy Academy is designed to equip undergraduate students who are rising seniors with the skills, networks, and experiences they will need for impactful careers in public affairs.

Students will take part in a one-week residential study program in Washington, DC, and then travel to one of the three host schools, where they will stay for two weeks and engage in hands-on policy training, leadership development, and career exploration alongside a diverse group of peers from across the country.

The Evans School is excited to welcome 26 emerging leaders:

Faiza Adhuna, Baruch College
Sarai Cecena, University of California, Los Angeles
Emilys Chaviano, Florida International University
Tamiyah Dubose, Fisk University
Christopher Escobedo, University of Washington
Samir Faruq, University of Washington
Annie Foo, University of California, Berkeley
Chrystal Gonzales, University of Washington
Andrea Gutierrez-Hernandez, Gonzaga University
Farah Haq, Baruch College
Taleah Ibrahim, Gonzaga University
Marianna Lares, Indiana University Bloomington
Denzel Massaley, Pennsylvania State University
Nahje McDowell, Baruch College
Xitlaly Mendoza, University of Washington
Senthian Mugisha, The City College of New York
Pamela Ortega, Baruch College
Amy Perez, Baruch College
Zion Romero, University of New Mexico
Natalie Sandoval, Florida International University
Rossy Sierra, University of Washington
Gurasis Singh, University of Minnesota, Twin Cities
Sandra Teran, University of Houston
Sarah Torres, Syracuse University
Artist Tyson, Texas Southern University
Arieyanna Wactor, North Carolina Central University

At the Evans School, students will be exposed to an array of nonprofit and government agencies involved in the creation and implementation of social policies that respond to pressing societal and economic issues. Specific issues of social policy include addressing poverty and inequality, social welfare programs, education policy, and criminal justice.