A legacy of inclusion A legacy of inclusion A legacy of inclusion

Since 1994, the Multicultural Alumni Partnership has been a force for representation, connection and support within the UW community. What started as a grassroots network focused on elevating underrepresented voices on campus has grown into a vibrant community of alumni committed to expanding access and opportunity.

Each year, MAP’s Scholarship and Awards Program brings that mission to life—celebrating the students, alumni, educators and community partners who embody the values of leadership, resilience and inclusion. The program highlights the power of a diverse Husky community working toward equity and belonging.

From left, Lewis Jackson, Elmer Dixon and Willie Brazier at a press conference of the Seattle Black Panthers in 1968. The Multicultural Alumni Partnership presents Dixon with the Samuel E. Kelly Distinguished Alumnus award this year.

Community Awardees

Elmer Dixon

Samuel E. Kelly Distinguished Alum
Elmer Dixon co-founded the Seattle chapter of the Black Panther Party in 1968 while still a freshman at the UW. In addition to protecting the Black community from police brutality, the Seattle Panthers launched a number of community-based programs including free breakfasts for children and a medical clinic for the city’s under-served Black population.

Today, Dixon is president of Executive Diversity Services, a Seattle-based consultancy providing training in cultural competency, organizational development and conflict management. With more than 38 years of experience, Dixon has worked with over 200 organizations including Microsoft, PepsiCo, United Airlines and the state of Washington.

A past president of the Society for Intercultural Training and Research, he often speaks on topics such as inclusive leadership and community-police relations. His memoir, “Die Standing: From Black Panther Revolutionary to Global Diversity Consultant,” recounts his extraordinary journey and offers lessons for today’s movement builders.

Roxanne Christian, ’07, ’11

MAP Distinguished Alum
Roxanne Christian, who holds a B.A. in sociology and a master’s in educational leadership and policy studies, is interim president of the Alliance for Education, leading the organization through a transition while advancing its mission of educational justice for Seattle students, families and educators. Previously, Christian spent nearly 15 years at the UW in development roles, helping leaders build strong relationships and drive resource growth.

Tracy M. Hilliard, ’00, ’03, ’10

MAP Distinguished Alum
Tracy Hilliard is a leader in community-centered research, racial healing and systems transformation. She has a Ph.D. in Health Services Research, an MPH and a B.A. in sociology. As co-founder and co-executive director of Lift Every Voice, she partners with communities, nonprofits and philanthropy to advance equity-focused initiatives. Hilliard has led the MAP scholarship program, served on the board of Building Changes and held leadership roles in the American Public Health Association. As a clinical assistant professor, she continues to mentor and teach at UW’s School of Nursing.

Tyson E.J. Marsh, ’01

MAP Distinguished Alum
Tyson Marsh is an associate professor and director of the Leadership Development for Educators Program at UW Bothell. Drawing on his background growing up in Eastern Washington and experience working in rural, suburban and urban schools, he explores how education functions within cultural, political and economic systems, particularly as they effect Black and Indigenous communities.

Tubman Center for Health & Freedom

MAP Community Organization Award
The Tubman Center is reimagining community care in the Puget Sound region. Inspired by Harriet Tubman’s dual legacy as a freedom fighter and nurse, the organization blends clinical care with grassroots healing and community connection to address the root causes of poor health.

Student Awardees

Tara Freeze is pursuing a master’s degree in speech-language pathology. Her interest in the field was sparked by her work with children on the autism spectrum and by witnessing her uncle’s journey with ALS. She plans to work in a hospital setting, supporting patients and families with communication and swallowing needs.

Owen G. Lee Scholar
Deserée Lai is a first-generation college graduate, mother and doctoral student in oceanography. She has developed programs that expand undergraduate research access. Focusing on community college and underrepresented students, Lai bridges her research with advocacy for educational equity to strengthen pathways into STEM for future students.

Fikir Melku is a third-year student pursuing a degree in accounting. He participates in the National Association of Black Accountants, Management Leadership for Tomorrow and Black@Foster. He is also as a peer adviser for fellow students and a mentor for high school students. His dedication to building community and creating opportunities fuels his work.

Alfredo Arreguín Scholar
Jasmin Rubalcava-Duran is a first-generation college student shaped by the hard work and dedication of her Mexican immigrant parents. She is pursuing her MSW with a specialization in public policy. She is grateful for the opportunity this award provides to further her academic journey.

Lois & Thaddeus Spratlen Scholar
Allysa Valdez Rodriguez is a senior majoring in Public Health–Global Health. Growing up Mexican American in Eastern Washington, and now as a first-generation college student, she has seen firsthand the challenges Spanish-speaking families face in accessing healthcare. These experiences inspired her dream of becoming an OB/GYN.