Pearl Franklin

Pearl Franklin is a Junior studying Political Science at the University of Washington - Seattle. Pearl participated in the February 2018 NEWL Leadership for Women and Leadership workshop where she listened to guest speakers Mona Das: Former candidate for U.S. Congress, Patty Murray: U.S. Senator for Washington, Melanie See: Grants Coordinator and Outreach Director for a U.S. Senator of Washington, Gael Tarleton: Washington State Representative, and Melissa Tumas: Education Coordinator. It is in participating in the Women and Leadership workshop that Pearl learned about women's role in politics, and how to become politically active. After the Women and Leadership workshop, Pearl created a leadership action plan to know her community and join a non-profit organization. She received her A.A. from Green River college before interning for Americorps and United Way, with the Free Summer Meals Program. While at Americorps, Pearl was responsible for creating new activities and preparing and serving meals for the kids. Her experience in Americorps has expanded her interests in education, public transportation, child care, food, and health. She is currently searching for institutions and nonprofits that are taking further political action within her community. Upon graduation of the University of Washington, Pearl plans to attend law school. 

Diamond Savusa

Diamond Savusa, 19 years old, is a first year student at GRC this year, and has accomplished many of her personal goals after attending The NEWL workshop last winter. Diamond's goal to travel and find inspiration for a future career in journalism was met when accepted into Green River's Study Abroad Program in Taiwan last Spring. And to closer reach her future goals in journalism, she will begin writing for Green River's student ran newspaper, The Current, this Fall quarter. 

Ashley Guerra

I remember asking Rebeka for help on an assignment, and her finishing the conversation by saying that I would be a great candidate for the NEWL institute. I applied, was accepted, and was curious as to what this day would hold. My opinion was that we would simply do leadership groups that spoke about how women need to be empowered, but that was far from the truth. The day of the institute, I was always on my toes waiting on what we were doing next. From discussing female roles in the past, to presenting my opinion, NEWL taught me that women leadership is vital. This opened my eyes to realize that feminism isn't about female dominance, it's about gender equality. Women should be able to lead since our nature is unique to our gender, and men just can't replicate that. 

If you plan on being a physician, a business woman, or are not even sure, this institute is an amazing opportunity to learn how women leadership impacts our society.

Tram Hoang

Campus NEW Leadership Institute was a remarkable experience in my life, where I had the opportunity to engage in many interactive panels with local inspiring women in political fields. Not only did I gain a better understanding about politics and community issues, but also I gained the confidence to become a great leader. I am glad to have the opportunity to meet people with dynamic backgrounds, from whom I have learned to respect different cultures and that each community has its own beauty.

Wen Qian Chua

As an international student studying here, I have participated in Campus New Leadership Workshop organized by the Campus New Leadership Institute at the Student Union of Green River College. It was an unforgettable experience, I learned a lot about Women and American Politics, the role of women in the society, and it widens my exposure to the world. I realize that women hold the power like any other men to change the world for the better and every human being is equal. Therefore to play my part and give back to the community, I am currently working with the Interurban Center for the Arts (ICA), a non-profit organization which concentrating on ensuring that children in the community to be able to receive arts knowledge. Playing my part, I have donated three of my artworks for auction in an event, and the benefits will be fully utilized by the ICA in the community to help develop artistic talents among children. This event has significantly opened my eyes and it was remarkable to meet the women leaders in our community. I appreciate that I am given the opportunity and I hope that in the future I can endure whatever is on the path and make this world a better place. 

Phoebe Vuong

As a first-generation student, I started off with no prior experience in leadership. During the election year, I attended the Women in Leadership workshop at Green River College (GRC) and was inspired by the speakers, especially Justice Mary Yu’s story to take part in leadership and lead social change. Over the next year, I started small by taking a fundamental political class at GRC, attending conferences, and participating in local community action. Through those experiences and the tremendous support and encouragement of GRC instructors and counselors, I gained more confidence and ran for office at my new University.  Currently, I am co-chair of Rush Student for Sexual and Reproductive Health (RSSRH) and membership-coordinator -Elect of Student Nurse Association (SNA) at Rush University where I am pursuing my master’s in nursing. I am passionate about expanding access to preventive care and protecting Women’s reproductive rights. As a NEWL scholarship recipient, I hope to encourage the next generation of women and LGBTQ community to actively get involved in politics and continue fighting for positive social change. My tip is to start small: do something that you are passionate about and reach out to NEWL board members, GRC instructors, or myself for additional support. We are here to help you become the next generation of leaders and hopefully with your help, together we will shatter that glass ceiling.