Five students from the College of the Environment—Laurel J. James, Leah Litwak, Sierra Kross, Brian Tracey, and Linnea McCann—have been selected as members of the inaugural class of the Husky 100. This new award recognizes 100 undergraduate and graduate students from across the three University of Washington campuses who are making the most of their time as members of the UW community, and making a difference inside and outside of the classroom.
Laurel J. James
- Harrah, Wash.
- Interdisciplinary Ph.D. (Forest Resources and Anthropology) ’17
“I’m an enrolled member of the Yakama Nation pursuing an interdisciplinary Ph.D. in Anthropology and Forest Resources, and I’m a single parent to my wonderful son. I take pride in the work that has been accomplished at the UW as a part of my individual research, group research, and in my professional UW staff position as the NARA Tribal Partnership Projects program manager. The tribal scholars whom I’ve assisted and tribal collaborations that have been formed are the highlight of my UW experience.”
Leah Litwak
- Jarrettsville, Md.
- B.A. Environmental Studies ’16
“I am a senior majoring in Environmental Studies with a minor in Nutritional Sciences. On campus, you can find me teaching undergraduate students and giving tours to future Huskies. When I’m not on campus, I work as a farmer’s market vendor and travel as much as I can. Food is a passionate interest of mine; in the future, I would love to engage in work incorporating food, the environment, sustainability, health, and people.”
Sierra Kross
- Celebration, Fla.
- B.S. Environmental and Resource Management (Wildlife Conservation) ’16
“My experience at the UW has taught me to face obstacles with confidence. By expanding my comfort zone, I have learned how to be a leader, not fear new experiences, and explore my passions without restraint.”
Brian Tracey
- Brooklyn, N.Y.
- Master of Marine and Environmental Affairs ’16
“I am Brian Tracey. I was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York. Over the last couple of years, as the socioeconomic war on Black America became more public and visceral, I naturally gravitated toward the only outlet on campus that I saw for myself, the Black Student Union. As I continue my work in the University to deconstruct discrimination and inequity at microlevels, my ability to work together with allies has strengthened our efforts and forged many strong bonds with individuals and groups outside of my own.”
Linnea McCann
- Seattle, Wash.
- B.S. Earth and Space Sciences: Geology ’16
“My Husky Experience is a collection of mistakes, opportunities, and amazing people who encouraged me to overcome challenges and seek knowledge both in and outside of the classroom. Conducting research in an isotope geochemistry lab has taught me the value of perseverance and dedication. A desire to give back to others has led me to pursue an active leadership role as an officer of the UW Earth and Space Sciences Geology Club.”
Congratulations to Laurel, Leah, Sierra, Brian, and Linnea on their accomplishments! Learn more about the Husky 100 program, and read profiles of the entire 2016 class.
