Board of Directors
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Lenny Wilkens
FOUNDER
Lenny Wilkens is the embodiment of teamwork. As the only person in the history of the NBA to be listed among the top 50 players of all time as well as one of the top 10 coaches, his understanding of how good leadership can help tap limitless potential is second to none.
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Cynthia Harper
PRESIDENT
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Melissa Valdez O'Connor
VICE PRESIDENT
Melissa has spent the last 15 years in the research and global health field, most recently at the Centers for Disease Control and the non-profit global health organization PATH. Melissa graduated from the University of Washington and holds a MPH from Emory University. Besides the LWF, Melissa is involved with other local philanthropic and non-profit groups, her church and enjoys spending time with her husband, Sean, and two young children.
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Jame Wilkens-Bravo
SECRETARY
Jamee is a proficient graphic designer who has dedicated much time and talent to the LWF, including brand collateral print and web design. She supports Laura Ingalls Wilder Elementary by volunteering her services updating the online newsletter. Jamee graduated from UCLA with a BA and was also awarded an AA from the Art Institute of Seattle. Her work history includes Boeing, Humongous Studio, Microsoft, and Expedia.Jamee is a proficient graphic designer who has dedicated much time and talent to the LWF, including brand collateral print and web design. She supports Laura Ingalls Wilder Elementary by volunteering her services updating the online newsletter. Jamee graduated from UCLA with a BA and was also awarded an AA from the Art Institute of Seattle. Her work history includes Boeing, Humongous Studio, Microsoft, and Expedia.
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Joseph Goudeau
FOUNDING BOARD MEMBER
Joseph Goudeau managed the Future Brands Washington and Alaska portfolios and was President of William Ryan Select. In addition to serving as past president of DRAW (Distillers Representatives of Washington), he served on the board of the Central Area Senior Center and founded their annual golf tournament, one of their most profitable fundraisers. He is presently retired and serving on the board of the Lenny Wilkens Foundation.
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Andrea Savage
BOARD MEMBER
Andrea Savage, the Chief Marketing Officer at Realogics Sotheby’s International Realty, has been instrumental in driving the growth of the marketing department. Leading a talented team, she has played a key role in achieving over $3 billion in residential sales. Her passion for building impactful brands, creating meaningful connections, and empowering others through innovative marketing strategies has made a significant impact in the industry.
Outside of her professional achievements, Andrea is committed to spreading positive energy within her community, among friends, and with her family. An outgoing person who values laughter, she is also an amazing aunt with a nurturing demeanor. During her leisure time, she enjoys sailing with her husband and embracing the joy and adventure it brings.
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Natalie Kelly Grande
BOARD MEMBER
Natalie Kelly, the VP of Learning & Development at Realogics Sotheby’s International Realty (RSIR), is known for her clear & comprehensive approach to agent training and development. She leverages her deep real estate experience to foster a culture of growth, learning, and excellence among agents. Outside of work, Natalie is an adventurer at heart, enjoying snowboarding, biking, and playing court sports on weekends. She’s also a passionate foodie who loves exploring restaurants and breweries with her husband, dog, friends, and family, always finding joy in the little moments of life.
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Michael Dana
BOARD MEMBER
An account executive at Halyard Health as well as a small business owner, Michael currently serves on two non-profit boards, the LWF and the Trufant Family Foundation. On the weekends he can be found playing with his five grandchildren and rooting for the Seahawks and Hoosiers.
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George Northcroft
BOARD MEMBER
George has executive experience in corporate and government operations. Besides LWF he serves on other non-profit boards that focus on education and the performing arts.
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Shawn McWashington
BOARD MEMBER
Shawn McWashington oversees business development and aspects of community relations for HomeStreet Bank. A former professional football player and radio analyst, Shawn and or his mother Deloria Jones have been involved with the Lenny Wilkens Foundation for over 2 decades.
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Brent Ericksen
BOARD MEMBER
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Mark Fremmerlid
BOARD MEMBER
President at Four Park Avenue. Oversight, management and sales for a national company specializing in parking management, valet parking and transportation services.
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La Shandra Hurst
BOARD MEMBER
La Shandra has worked in the non-profit sector for 13 years, providing her marketing, fund development and event planning skills to youth-serving organizations such as Girls Inc., MESA, Portland State University, Youth Opportunity Inc. and Girl Scouts of Oregon and Washington. She is currently the program manager for Microsoft Employee Giving and serves on many community boards throughout the Seattle area.
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Kenneth Duncan Jr.
TREASURER
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Francis Bravo
BOARD MEMBER
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Leesha Lipp
BOARD MEMBER
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Damien Reed
BOARD MEMBER