Staff

About Leah: Having worked professionally with new college students for more than a decade, and stewarding thousands through this major life transition, I can’t imagine a more exciting, challenging, and yet rewarding time in a student’s life. I received my Bachelor’s degree in Biology and Secondary Education from St. Lawrence University in Canton, New York, and a Master’s degree in Higher Education Student Affairs from Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia. I’m a new mom with a toddler, so my free time is pretty limited, but we do enjoy getting outdoors, playing with our dogs, reading, and spending time with family and friends. (pronouns: she/her/hers)

About Hector: I was born in California, raised in Mexico, and graduated from Chico State University in California with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology. My interest in higher education involves creating services catered to minorities and underrepresented populations. In my free time, I tend to explore Seattle, share time with friends, and continue my search for the best iced coffee. (pronouns: he/him/his) 

About Ben: I was born and raised in California in the Bay area and graduated from Sonoma State University with a Bachelor’s degree in Liberal Studies. I enjoy hiking, board games, Game of Thrones, Disney, and exploring new places. (pronouns: he/him/his)  

Year in School: Third 

Majors: Sociology and Anthropology 

About Sarah: This will be my second year working closely with Orientation and Seattle U's newest community members! On campus, I also work as a desk assistant with Housing and Residence Life. In my free time, you can find me at a local coffee shop with friends, wandering around Capitol Hill, or enjoying the sun when it makes an appearance. I hail from Agoura Hills, California, but have come to call Seattle my home. (pronouns: she/her/hers) 

Year in School: Fourth 

Major: Criminal Justice with specialization in Forensic Psychology

About Claire: I am so excited to continue working with Orientation as an Orientation Coordinator this school year! A little bit about me – I transferred to SU from Pierce College Puyallup, where I earned my Associate’s degree in 2017. I am from Bonney Lake, Washington. Here at SU, my involvements beyond Orientation include working as a lifeguard and swim instructor at UREC, being a peer buddy through Best Buddies, and working as an undergraduate representative on the iLead planning committee. Outside of school, I love visiting home and hanging out with my family and two dogs, Joey and Lars. (pronouns: she/her/hers) 

Year in School: Second 

Majors: Social Work  

About Ash: My passion is working with people, specifically queer youth, and Orientation has allowed me to do this as I work towards my degree. I am overjoyed to be welcomed back on the O-staff team this year. Outside of work, I enjoy baking, watching the Great British Baking Show, painting, traveling, trying new food, and petting dogs. Feel free to say "hi" if you see me around campus. I would love to chat with you about: Star Wars, LOTR, pets, TV shows, music, and pretty much anything. (pronouns: they/them/theirs) 

Year in School: Second

Major: Social Work

About Rita: I've had so many great memories from Orientation and I am pumped to have the chance to welcome and support our newest/current Redhawks! Besides Orientation, you can catch me studying in a coffee shop, checking out local thrift stores, and when it gets sunny, playing frisbee in the dog park! I love to talk about everything with anyone, especially if it's about birthing rights, intersectionality, and joys of karaoke. (pronouns: she/her/hers)

About Nancy: I moved to Seattle in 2016, having worked for many years in the Maryland non-profit community, including with one of the country’s first AmeriCorps national service programs. I hold a Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Maryland. When not at SU, I love exploring the spectacular PNW outdoors and my new city. (pronouns: she/her/hers)