A new project at Washington State University Tri-Cities is documenting the history of Latinas in central Washington. It will be a lasting archive of stories of immigrant life and resilience.

The project, called HERitage, aims to compile the experiences of Latinas in Benton County, beyond traditional accounts of agricultural labor, said researcher Sabrina Gonz谩lez, an assistant professor of history at 黑料社 Tri-Cities.

鈥淚 believe part of what this project can do is to tell the story of migrants from the perspectives of their daily struggles and what they had to overcome to be who they are today,鈥� said Gonz谩lez.

History students are collecting these stories. Marcos Barreiro, a second-generation Mexican American and fourth year history student, is one of them.

鈥淢y grandparents were both born in Mexico. My parents were born here.鈥� Barreiro said. 鈥淚 have family who are still there and friends that were born there that moved here.鈥�

He said his grandfather is very proud of being Mexican and wanted to teach his family to be proud of their heritage too.

For the project, Barreiro interviewed one of his aunts, who was born in Mexico, then she moved to Texas and later came to Washington state. He asked her what it was like growing up in America and about her experience of being Latina in Benton County.

He said learning more details about his aunt鈥檚 life was enlightening, because it allowed him to delve into his family’s history beyond everyday life and learn things he had never heard about her life story before.

“We care about this embodied knowledge. Our students carry in their own bodies the histories of trauma, the history of struggle, but also the histories of resilience and resistance.” Sabrina Gonz谩lez

The students working with Gonz谩lez are collecting stories from their family members and other community members. It is a way to engage not only in learning about the long history of women’s challenges in the region, but also about historical methods 鈥� techniques that historians use to explain historical events 鈥� from concrete experiences.

“We care about this embodied knowledge. Our students carry in their own bodies the histories of trauma, the history of struggle, but also the histories of resilience and resistance,” said Gonz谩lez.

Barreiro said documenting these histories will help many in the community.

鈥淚f they can look at these archives, other young women or Latinas, they can see something that they can connect to,” said Barreiro.

The goal, Gonz谩lez said, is to collect at least ten new interviews that will be added to a website dedicated to the project, which is听听by the Benton County Historical Preservation Grant.

HERitage expands on other efforts to recover and raise awareness of the history of Hispanic and Latino communities in the region, said assistant professor of history Robert Franklin.

Franklin and Robert Bauman, researcher and history professor at 黑料社 Tri-Cities, have worked in the past on the presence and contributions of Latino/a communities in Central Washington.

鈥淚 think a lot of this work fulfills that commitment that 黑料社 has made to serve the community, and it’s enriching in so many ways for the students to help us be making those connections, and doing so in a multi-generational way,鈥� said Franklin. 鈥淲e know, as historians, how powerful that is, to be able to go out and gather these stories and preserve them.鈥�

Gonz谩lez said the archives will also make a significant contribution to women’s history, Chicana history and gender studies.

Washington State University Tri-Cities recognized eight leaders as Women of Distinction award winners for their contributions to the campus and Tri-Cities community as part of a March 27 inductee ceremony.

The winners exhibit exceptional leadership in their discipline or area of expertise, serve as role models and mentors, advocate for positive social change and demonstrate a commitment to 黑料社 Tri-Cities鈥� mission.

鈥淭he 黑料社 Tri Cities Women of Distinction Awards were created as a means in which to honor the work of women and for women that happens on our campus and in the community,鈥� said Sandra Haynes, chancellor of 黑料社 Tri-Cities. 鈥淭he people chosen for these awards are dedicated to improving our community and represent the very best of what the Tri-Cities has to offer.鈥�

This is the eighth year of the award program, and during that time, 286 submissions have been received. Nominations were open to the campus and the Tri-Cities community.

The portraits and biographies of the 2025 winners will be added to the past awardee exhibit in the 黑料社 Tri-Cities Art Center, which currently displays the previous 49 winners. The exhibit will be open until April 4.

Lori Mattson

Woman of Distinction Legacy Award, 2025
President and CEO, Tri-City Regional Chamber of Commerce

Lori Mattson is the President and CEO of the Tri-City Regional Chamber of Commerce, where she has been a driving force for business and community development since 2004. A passionate community leader known for her strategic vision and collaborative approach, she has played a pivotal role in expanding the Chamber into the fifth largest in Washington and securing its distinction as the only Chamber in the state with a five-star accreditation from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Her leadership has strengthened the local business community and positioned the Chamber as a leading organization in the region.

Before stepping into her current role, Lori worked with Junior Achievement of the Tri-Cities, ran a home-based business, and dedicated 11 years to raising her daughters. A graduate of the U.S. Chamber鈥檚 Institute of Organization Management, she has served on multiple national and state boards, including the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives and the U.S. Chamber鈥檚 Committee of 100. Locally, she lends her expertise to organizations such as the Benton Franklin Workforce Development Council, TRIDEC, and Visit Tri-Cities.

Beyond her professional achievements, Lori is committed to fostering personal growth and balancing career and family, knowing that both contribute to a meaningful and fulfilling life. Raised in Lewiston, Idaho, she credits her strong work ethic to her parents and believes leadership is about knowing when to take charge and when to support others. Her philosophy centers on building trust, working hard, and surrounding herself with talented individuals to drive meaningful progress.

Receiving the Legacy Award is a deeply meaningful honor for Lori, as it reflects her commitment to lasting community impact. 鈥淭o be considered a visionary leader is both humbling and incredibly rewarding. My goal has always been to drive meaningful change, and this recognition affirms that effort.鈥� For her, leadership means thinking beyond the present and inspiring others to do the same鈥攂ecause progress is made not just by talking about change, but by making it happen.

Chaune’ Fitzgerald

Woman of Distinction Community Member Award, 2025
CEO, Women of Wisdom Tri-Cities
Founder, Washington African American Chamber of Commerce

Dr. Chaune鈥� Fitzgerald is a dynamic leader, entrepreneur, and activist whose impact spans more than two decades. As the CEO of Women of Wisdom Tri-Cities and the founder of the Washington African American Chamber of Commerce, she has dedicated her career to education, public service, environmental justice, and economic empowerment. With a steadfast commitment to bridging social and economic disparities, Chaune鈥� has delivered more than $3 million in access-to-capital initiatives in Benton and Franklin counties, helping marginalized communities gain financial and entrepreneurial opportunities.

Chaune鈥� holds a doctorate in counseling and strategic leadership, as well as a master of science MBA with a focus in business organizational leadership and management. She earned her bachelor of science in healthcare management from Southern Illinois University and is a licensed master cosmetologist in both Washington and Georgia. Chaune鈥� is also a proud wife and mother of three.

Beyond her business acumen, Chaune鈥� is a visionary in sustainable transportation. She established eastern Washington鈥檚 first Zero-Emissions Electric Community Carshare program and is actively partnering with the Washington State Department of Transportation and the Washington State Department of Commerce to expand electric vehicle charging infrastructure and e-bike programs securing over $8 Million dollars in EV Infrastructure in Washington State (WAEVCP). Additionally, she serves as the project director for the United States Department of Transportation Northwest Small Business Transportation Center, assisting small businesses across five states with access to capital and procurement opportunities. Locally, she lends her leadership to the Visit Tri-Cities board and the Hanford Advisory Council.

Chaune鈥檚 philosophy on success is rooted in resilience and personal growth. 鈥淭he best piece of advice I鈥檝e received is simple: grow where you are planted,鈥� she shares. 鈥淕round yourself spiritually, mentally, and physically, and success and overall well-being will follow.鈥�

Winning the Community Award is a profound honor for Chaune鈥�, symbolizing the recognition of her dedication, strength, and unwavering commitment to her community. 鈥淭his award unites me with like-minded women who share the same mission. It鈥檚 not just about personal achievement鈥攊t鈥檚 about inspiring and uplifting others,鈥� she says. 鈥淚t motivates me to continue advocating for empowerment and equality, showcasing the potential of women to lead, innovate, and make a difference in the world.鈥� Through her leadership and advocacy, she continues to pave the way for economic and social progress, ensuring that opportunities for success are within reach for everyone.

Michelle Smith

Woman of Distinction Alumna Award, 2025
Assistant Principal, Pasco High School

Dr. Michelle Smith is a dedicated educational leader, scholar, and military veteran committed to ensuring that all students have access to the resources and support they need to succeed. With more than two decades of experience in education, she has served as a teacher, instructional coach, and administrator, always prioritizing equitable access, engagement, and innovation. Currently, she serves as assistant principal at Pasco High School, where she oversees key academic and student support programs, including College in the High School, AVID schoolwide implementation, and special education services. She is instrumental in building community partnerships, developing intervention strategies for student re-engagement, and fostering professional learning communities for educators.

Michelle earned her doctorate in educational leadership from Washington State University, where her research focused on student re-engagement in alternative high schools. Her scholarly work extends beyond school leadership, as she is an active researcher and presenter at national conferences, sharing insights on mentoring, leadership, and student success. Her published work highlights the power of storytelling in leadership development and sustaining student engagement. Recognized for her excellence in education, she is a recipient of multiple awards, including the PRIDE Ally Award from La Alianza de 黑料社 and the Crystal Apple Award for outstanding teaching.

Michelle鈥檚 leadership is rooted in collaboration, equity, and the unwavering belief that every student deserves the opportunity to thrive. Her guiding philosophy is simple yet powerful: 鈥淏elieve in your potential鈥攑erseverance and passion can break barriers. As Latinas, we must embrace our strengths, set ambitious goals, and confidently pursue higher education. Never forget the ancestors who paved the way for us by lifting up those who follow. In doing so, we honor our past by empowering the future.鈥�

Winning the Alumna Award is an incredible honor for Michelle. 鈥淭his achievement is a testament to the support and inspiration of the women who paved the way before me, and it motivates me to uplift those who will follow,鈥� she shares. 鈥淚n challenging times, it can feel like darkness surrounds us, but unity and collective action empower us to be beacons of light, guiding and serving our community.鈥�

Jillian Cadwell

Woman of Distinction Faculty Award, 2025
Research Associate, School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, 黑料社 Tri-Cities

Dr. Jillian Cadwell is a dedicated researcher, educator, and mentor committed to empowering students in STEM fields and fostering career-connected learning opportunities. She is a research associate faculty member in the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences and has been instrumental in developing mentorship-based programs that bridge academia, industry, and community partnerships.

With a Ph.D. in civil engineering from the University of Colorado at Boulder and a bachelor of science in civil engineering from Gonzaga University, Jillian鈥檚 research integrates ecology and fluid mechanics, focusing on contaminant transport in aquatic environments and its impact on ecological health. Beyond her technical research, she is passionate about mentorship and has studied models that create cohesive support systems for students pursuing STEM pathways. She serves as the Principal Investigator for the NSF INCLUDES Women in STEM Education Network (WiSEN) and is the co-chair of Million Women Mentors Washington State. Additionally, she leads 黑料社 Tri-Cities鈥� efforts in the Department of Energy Inclusive Energy Innovation Prize, spearheading initiatives that provide students with career-connected learning experiences in clean energy. Outside of her professional work, Jillian enjoys yoga, skiing, hiking with her family, and drinking coffee with friends. She is also passionate about exploring national parks and embracing the beauty of the outdoors.

Jillian believes deeply in the power of mentorship. 鈥淵ou belong in your major and your field, and you should be proud of the effort you鈥檝e put in so far,鈥� she tells students. 鈥淐hallenges and barriers will arise鈥攕ometimes many鈥攂ut what matters is how you keep moving forward. Find people who will support and challenge you: mentors, peers, faculty, and industry professionals who share their struggles and successes with you.鈥�

Jillian鈥檚 commitment to mentorship extends to her leadership in the Clean Energy Ambassadors Network (CEAN) at 黑料社 Tri-Cities, an initiative answering the industry鈥檚 call for collaboration between professionals and students. 鈥淚t is imperative that students have career-connected opportunities throughout their educational pathways,鈥� she emphasizes. 鈥淲e are not just educating students鈥攚e are building the future clean energy workforce.鈥�

Receiving the Faculty Award is an honor for Jillian, as it recognizes the impact of her work in mentorship and education. 鈥淚 love what I do, and I want to positively influence those around me鈥攅specially my students and colleagues. Seeing students achieve their goals makes all of the hard work worth it.鈥�

Kalimae Mountain

Woman of Distinction Student Award, 2025
Environmental science student, 黑料社 Tri-Cities

Kalimae Mountain is a dedicated advocate for environmental sustainability, scientific research, and student leadership, currently pursuing a bachelor of science in environmental science with a minor in biology. Her academic journey is driven by a deep commitment to understanding and addressing environmental challenges, and she hopes to continue her studies in graduate school before pursuing a career in sustainability and research.

Throughout her time at 黑料社 Tri-Cities, Kalimae has been a leader both inside and outside the classroom. She serves as the president of the Environmental Club, the event coordinator for the Women in STEM Club, and a Clean Energy Ambassador. She is also an elected representative in student government, serving as the College of Agricultural, Human, and Natural Resource Sciences (CAHNRS) Senator and the Senate Pro-Tempore for the Associated Students of 黑料社 Tri-Cities (AS黑料社TC). In addition to her leadership roles, she has gained hands-on experience as a co-op intern with Washington River Protection Solutions and as a student intern with the 黑料社-ANKERON Hub, where she contributes to clean energy initiatives and environmental research.

Kalimae believes in the power of self-trust and perseverance. 鈥淵ou have overcome everything that life has thrown at you so far and figured out every problem鈥攕o what鈥檚 one more? You have the tools to navigate whatever comes your way. Trust your judgment, be confident in your decisions, and don鈥檛 be afraid to take up space. As a woman, you belong in these spaces, and you have everything you need to succeed.鈥�

As a woman in STEM and a student leader, Kalimae has faced challenges that tested her confidence and sense of belonging. Yet, through persistence and community, she has discovered her own strength and resilience. 鈥淭his recognition reaffirms that the work I鈥檓 doing鈥攚hether in my classes, student leadership, or among my peers鈥攃an have an impact.鈥�

Winning the Student Award is an honor for Kalimae, symbolizing resilience, growth, and the power of stepping into leadership roles. 鈥淭his award is not just about individual achievement鈥攊t represents every woman before us who made a seat at the table, broke barriers, and created a framework for us to continue to fly today,鈥� she says.

Courtney Flatt

Woman of Distinction Staff Member Award, 2025
Senior Environment and Energy Correspondent, Northwest Public Broadcasting

Courtney Flatt is an award-winning journalist dedicated to covering environmental and energy issues with depth and clarity. As the senior environment and energy correspondent for Northwest Public Broadcasting (NWPB), she brings years of experience reporting on critical issues affecting the Pacific Northwest and beyond. Her career spans over a decade, with bylines at NPR, Here & Now, and Living on Earth, and previous roles as a correspondent, editor, and multimedia reporter for NWPB, EarthFix, and various other news outlets.

Courtney’s reporting has been widely recognized, earning honors from the Society of Environmental Journalists, the Online News Association, the Northwest Emmys, and the Society of Professional Journalists. She has participated in prestigious journalism programs, including the Metcalf Institute for Marine & Environmental Reporting and the Institute for Journalism & Natural Resources. With a master’s degree in convergence journalism from the University of Missouri and a bachelor’s degree in journalism and communications from Texas A&M University, she combines investigative rigor with a passion for storytelling that informs and engages the public.

For Courtney, journalism is about always being prepared. “One piece of advice that’s served me well: Always bring a pen. It鈥檚 important in life, and it鈥檚 especially important as a journalist. The one time I forgot this rule, my best friend and I were stuck in a customs line in the UK for four hours. We finally reached the front, only to realize we had paperwork to fill out and no pen. A kind soul took pity on us and lent us theirs. Since then, it鈥檚 a must-have. You’ll always be ready to take notes at a news conference, jot down a phone number for a source, or鈥攋ust maybe鈥攈elp another tired traveler in need.”

Receiving the Staff Award is a deeply meaningful recognition for Courtney. “This award is a huge honor. I respect and admire everyone who nominated me so much, and it鈥檚 humbling to know they took the time to do this. Our work at NWPB is a collaboration, and I truly believe that any recognition like this is a reflection of the supportive and hardworking team I have the privilege to work with every day.”

Devin and Amanda Lorraine

Woman of Distinction Champion Award, 2025
Founders, Grace Collective

Devin and Amanda Lorraine are the visionary co-founders of Grace Collective, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering women survivors of addiction, homelessness, trafficking, and poverty. Since being married for 24 years and raising five children, they have built a life centered on faith, family, and service.

Amanda鈥檚 passion for empowering women survivors stems from her personal experience and a desire to give back to others facing significant adversity. As a co-founder of Grace Collective, she helped create a state-of-the-art job training facility in Pasco that serves as the heart of the organization. Under Amanda鈥檚 leadership, Grace Collective has provided job training and mentorship to women in need, helping them secure brighter futures. Amanda has also built key community partnerships, including a collaboration with Washington State University Tri-Cities鈥� Cougar Tracks, providing continued educational opportunities for women survivors. Her dedication was recognized when she received the 2024 Athena International Leadership award and the Tri-Cities Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Community Ally of the Year award.

Amanda鈥檚 advice is to act without waiting for the perfect moment: 鈥淪tart now, even if it is in a small way鈥� The greatest leaders are always leading; they don鈥檛 need a leadership title.鈥� She encourages women to step into opportunities with confidence and resilience, trusting that growth comes from taking risks and learning along the way.

Devin serves as the operations director of Grace Collective, providing trauma-informed care, biblical counseling, and spiritual guidance, while ensuring the effective delivery of Grace Collective鈥檚 mission. Before co-founding Grace Collective, Devin spent over 13 years in pastoral leadership, including roles as executive pastor at Lighthouse Church and senior pastor at Redeemer Tri-Cities and ReGen Church. His commitment to service stems from his time in the U.S. Navy, where he served as a Petty Officer during Operation Desert Storm aboard the USS John F. Kennedy. His military honors include the Navy Expeditionary Medal, Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and several ribbons for deployment.

Reflecting on his journey, Devin credits Gregory Boyle鈥檚 quote from Tattoos on the Heart as a guiding principle: 鈥淗ere is what we seek: a compassion that can stand in awe at what the poor have to carry rather than stand in judgment at how they carry it.鈥�

For Amanda and Devin, winning the Champion Award is more than a personal achievement, it reflects the strength and impact of the women they serve. They are deeply grateful for the support of their community and inspired by the resilience of the women at Grace Collective.

By Leslie Streeter

As announced last week, the from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to begin initial planning, permitting and analysis activities. Washington State University Tri-Cities will play a key role in this venture. Part of the award will be used to benefit local communities in Washington, Oregon, and Montana and address environmental justice issues.

Kate McAteer, vice chancellor of academic and student affairs at 黑料社 Tri-Cities is leading Phase 1 planning of the Community Benefits Plan (CBP) portion of the project with support from the Consortium for Hydrogen and Renewably Generated E-Fuels (CHARGE) based out of 黑料社 Everett, and the Office of Tribal Relations at 黑料社 Pullman.

鈥満诹仙� Tri-Cities is located in the heart of clean energy efforts in the state. As a campus that serves a significant population of students from disadvantaged backgrounds, we are ready and I, personally, am thrilled to lead the PNWH2 Hub鈥檚 effort to advance job equity and energy justice not only locally, but throughout the Pacific Northwest,鈥� said McAteer.

The CBP will be informed and developed in consultation with local communities and tribes, with the goal of reducing potential impacts of the Hub鈥檚 efforts and maximizing local community benefits. The CBP aligns with the Federal听Justice 40 goals, an initiative to deliver at least 40% of the overall benefits from federal investments in climate and clean energy to disadvantaged communities.

The PNWH2 Hub has eight 鈥渘odes鈥�, or project sites, across three states, including one in Richland, Washington led by Atlas Agro听and several proposed projects in eastern Oregon.

The PNWH2 Hub project aims to establish the Pacific Northwest as a national benchmark for successful low-carbon intensity and economically viable green hydrogen production. As part of this project, the CBP will engage with communities to define and quantify benefits, avoid disproportionate burdens and closely track and ensure that benefits flow to disadvantaged communities. These benefits could include, but are not limited to, the creation of more than 10,000 quality jobs, reduced emissions and the development of STEM-based education and training programs from K-12 through college to ensure a pipeline of trained and qualified workers to build, then operate and maintain the Hub鈥檚 hydrogen projects.

, a multi-state nonprofit organization focused on creating a robust network of clean hydrogen suppliers and end-users in the Pacific Northwest听is sponsoring the project.

By Seth Truscott

Collaborating with European scientists to develop ideas, fuels, and products that solve global environmental and energy challenges, Washington State University Professor Bin Yang is headed to Toulouse, France, as the newly announced recipient of the Fulbright-Tocqueville Distinguished Chair Award.

The award will fuel Yang鈥檚 work alongside colleagues at the Toulouse Biotechnology Institute, INSA Toulouse, expanding international partnerships for development of global decarbonization and biofuels and bioproducts production.

鈥淚 am grateful to the Fulbright Program for allowing me to expand on ideas and broaden ties between Washington state, the U.S., and France,鈥� said Yang, a professor at 黑料社鈥檚听. 鈥淚t鈥檚 a great honor to work with European leaders in technology and sustainability at Toulouse and other partner institutions.鈥�

The six-month exchange begins in spring 2025 and builds on existing collaboration between Yang and scientists at Toulouse, part of the France鈥檚听听(滨狈厂础).

Working with European colleagues in the bioeconomy鈥攅conomic areas embracing technologies like biomass to produce fuels and chemicals鈥擸ang seeks to make advances in energy and sustainability while promoting 黑料社 research to the international scientific community.

鈥淚nnovating together is the key to a better future for the world,鈥� he said. 鈥淢y ultimate goal is to develop a roadmap for the decarbonization of the bioeconomy between the United States and France, as well as the manufacture of products that serve the visions and goals of both countries.鈥�

Yang鈥檚 laboratory at听黑料社 Tri-Cities听focuses on development of renewable energy technologies, with an emphasis on production of biofuels and chemicals from cellulosic biomass: plant materials grown as crops or harvested as agricultural waste. He recently pioneered new pretreatment and manufacturing technologies to process biomass into jet fuel, bioplastics, carbon fiber, hydrogen carriers, and other bioproducts.

This is Yang鈥檚 second Fulbright Distinguished Chair award. In 2019, he traveled to Helsinki, Finland, as the first professor at 黑料社 to be selected for the Fulbright Distinguished Chair in Energy and Sustainable Use of Natural Resources Award.

鈥淏in Yang鈥檚 accomplishments have made him an international leader for development of the bioeconomy,鈥� said Jean Marie Fran莽ois, professor of industrial microbiology and bio-nanotechnology and Yang鈥檚 host at Federal University Toulouse. 鈥淩ecent awards recognize his pioneering contributions to the next generation biorefinery, sustainability, and green technologies that can overcome climate change. His upcoming visit is a great opportunity for students in our biochemical engineering and international master in bioeconomy programs and will significantly improve cooperation between our two institutions.鈥�

The Fulbright Program awards distinguished chairs to renowned scholars set apart by significant experience and extensive publications in their fields. Yang is the first professor at 黑料社 to receive the Fulbright-Tocqueville Distinguished Chair Award.

The most prestigious award offered by the Fulbright France bilateral program, this distinguished chair was created in 2005 to mark Senator J. William Fulbright鈥檚 centennial and Alexis de Tocqueville鈥檚 bicentennial. Funded by the French Ministry of Higher Education and Research and the Fulbright Program, it reinforces collaborative research between France and the United States on topics of major significance for the future of both societies.

鈥� Contact: Bin Yang, Professor, Department of Biological Systems Engineering, (509) 372-7640,听bin.yang@wsu.edu

Washington State University Tri-Cities recognized six female leaders as Women of Distinction for their contributions to the campus and Tri-Cities community as part of a March 28 inductee ceremony.

The winners exhibit exceptional leadership in their discipline or area of expertise, serve as role models and mentors to other women, advocate for positive social change and demonstrate a commitment to 黑料社 Tri-Cities鈥� mission.

鈥淭he 黑料社 Tri Cities Women of Distinction Awards were created as a means in which to inspire our campus and community alike, and the future generation of women leaders,鈥� said Sandra Haynes, chancellor of 黑料社 Tri-Cities. 鈥淭he women chosen for these awards have dedicated their lives to improving our community and represent the very best of what the Tri-Cities has to offer.鈥�

This is the seventh year of the award program and during that time more than 222 submissions have been received. Nominations were open to the campus and the Tri-Cities community.

Michelle Whitney

Woman of Distinction Legacy Award, 2024
Superintendent, Pasco School District

With almost three decades devoted to the Pasco School District, Michelle Whitney’s journey is a testament to her unwavering commitment to education. Beginning her career as a devoted kindergarten teacher, Michelle progressed through various impactful roles, from a 4th-grade teacher to a counselor, then advancing to Assistant Principal and eventually Principal at McLoughlin Middle School. Her versatility became evident as she assumed pivotal district positions, including Director of Human Resources and Executive Director of Teaching and Learning.

In 2016, Mrs. Whitney embraced the role of Superintendent with determination, propelling Pasco School District to new heights. Leading a district of 2,500 employees and 19,000 students, her dynamic leadership positively impacts countless lives in our community.

A Columbia Basin College alumna, she earned her associate鈥檚 degree, followed by bachelor鈥檚 and master鈥檚 degrees in Education from Washington State University. Michelle also received her Principal鈥檚 certification and Superintendent鈥檚 credential from 黑料社. In her capacity as superintendent, Michelle has supported several educational initiatives in partnership with 黑料社 such as the Alternative Route Program and Teaching Bridge Program, along with many more. Her educational journey and commitments reflect a dedication to continuous learning and professional growth.

Michelle’s commitment to her community is further exemplified by her several other honors as the Columbia Basin College Alum of the Year, Women of Distinction from Girl Scouts of America, and District Administrator of the Year from the Nation and Speech Debate Association.

Michelle’s story is one of passion, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of educational excellence.

Naima Chambers

Woman of Distinction Community Member Award, 2024
Chief Executive Officer and founder, Tri-Cities Diversity & Inclusion Council
Manager of Equity, Inclusion and Organizational Change, Oregon Department of Corrections

Naima stands as a beacon of excellence in the realm of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. With over two decades of progressive experience spanning law enforcement, non-profit management, and training roles, she has exemplified a profound commitment to fostering equitable practices within organizational and community settings. Naima holds twelve certifications that underscore her expertise in DEI and leadership skills in her field.

Currently serving as the Manager of Equity, Inclusion & Organizational Change at the Oregon Department of Corrections, Naima leads agency-wide DEI initiatives, embedding principles of equity and inclusion into organizational policies and practices. Naima’s impact today also certainly stems from her 16 years as a supervising correctional officer, during which her passion for the well-being of others was always at the forefront.

In addition to her role at the Oregon DOC, she also takes on double duty as the Chief Executive Officer & Founder of the Tri-Cities Diversity & Inclusion Council. She established this nonprofit, dedicated to fostering a unified community, embracing cultures, and celebrating diversity through education, advocacy, and the promotion of cultural competence and compassion. Under her leadership, the council managed over $2 million in federal and state grants.

This recipient鈥檚 dedication and contributions have not gone unnoticed as she recently received the 2022 MLK Spirit Award from Columbia Basin College, recognizing her outstanding commitment to social justice and community empowerment.

Kathryn Brault

Woman of Distinction Alumna Award, 2024
Owner and former diabetes specialist, Tri-Cities Diabetes

Kathryn earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2001 and a Master of Nursing in 2005 while working as an RN at Lourdes and Kadlec hospitals. She also joined the faculty at Columbia Basin College as a nursing instructor. Kathryn then continued her work in education as a preceptor for nursing and nurse practitioner students at 黑料社 Tri-Cities. Her legacy of supporting health care education at 黑料社 continued as she has served as a host for 黑料社 Tri-Cities medical students under the Community Hosting and Homestay Program since its inception.

Kathryn was drawn into her specialization in the medical field by her experience as a parent of a son with Type 1 diabetes. Her expertise in diabetes care is peerless in the area. She is the owner of Tri-Cities Diabetes, where she served as a diabetes specialist, and she retired from private medical practice in 2023.

Beyond her educational and professional work, she has had a tremendous impact on the community through her service. For more than 20 years, she has volunteered as a medical provider at Grace Clinic, which plays a significant role in health equity in the Tri-Cities, and for the last 13 years, she has served as the clinic鈥檚 volunteer medical director.

Kathryn described that winning the Women of Distinction award is an immense honor as a recognition for the hard work, dedication, and commitment that she has made to her profession as a nurse practitioner. More than a personal achievement, she expresses that this award celebrates the strength and resilience of countless women in healthcare, who tirelessly work to effect positive change on a daily basis. Above all, she humbly accepts this award as a testament to the power of women’s leadership and the profound impact they make on lives every day.

Ameera Fayad

Woman of Distinction Faculty Award, 2024
Assistant clinical professor, 黑料社 Tri-Cities College of Nursing

Dr. Fayad is an assistant clinical professor in the college of nursing at Washington State University Tri-Cities. Before earning her PhD at the State University in Buffalo, New York, Dr. Fayad received her foundational nursing education in Jordan at the Jordan University of Sciences and Technology and Rufaidah Al-Aslamiah College.

Dr. Fayad’s focus on pediatric oncology earned her the King Hussein Cancer Center Certificate of Excellence in 2004 and led her to continue studying young adult survivors of childhood cancers. She was an advisor for the pre-nursing cohort from Saudi Arabia in 2022-2023 and currently serves on the Undergraduate Admission and Progression Committee (UAP) as an elected member. Dr. Fayad’s nursing experience both in Jordan and the United States have supported her pedagogy and research, advocating for positive social change and helping students foster relationships with patients and clinical agencies.

Her dedication to her community extends beyond 黑料社. She currently volunteers with Meals on Wheels of Mid-Columbia as a driver, delivering meals to local homebound senior citizens, and has devoted time with both the Richland School District for annual vision and hearing screenings and the Benton Franklin Health District for vaccination clinics.

A piece of wisdom that has guided her journey is encapsulated in the phrase 鈥淣o matter where life takes you, build your village.鈥� Dr. Fayad believes that teaching is a reciprocal journey, and while it is her duty to impart knowledge, students equally bear the responsibility to actively engage in learning. Dr. Fayad continually ponders how she can enhance this dynamic for her students, and it is a driving force for her ongoing improvement.

Reem Osman

Woman of Distinction Student Award, 2024
Computer science and mathematics student, 黑料社 Tri-Cities

Reem Osman is a senior at Washington State University TriCities studying computer science and mathematics. As a Sudanese American, born and raised in Saudi Arabia, Reem moved to the United States in 2018 to pursue higher education. As a 黑料社 Tri-Cities student, she set a precedent through her involvement on campus in numerous clubs and leadership roles, including her appointments as a founding member, president, and vice president of the Black Student Union, president of the Coding Cougs club, and vice president of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers club.

Reem’s involvement and excellence in academics have earned her several awards, namely the 黑料社 President鈥檚 awards for leadership and the Student Leader of the Year award in 2022, the Student Civic Leadership award in 2023, and the Top Ten Senior for Campus Involvement award in 2024. She has also been on the President鈥檚 honor roll list since her Freshman year. Each of these accomplishments have fulfilled her goal of making the most out of her time in college.

She aspires to pursue a career as a front-end developer, where she can leverage her technical expertise to enhance user experiences and meet client needs. Reem’s talents have already been displayed through her employment with the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory as an intern, and with 黑料社 IT. As she progresses, she aims to further develop her skills and serve as a mentor and leader for teams and projects.

Her mindset has been instrumental in her journey in getting her to where she is today. She has learned the importance of taking action and being proactive in creating the change she wants to see, rather than relying on others to do it for her.

Laura Sanchez

Woman of Distinction Staff Member Award, 2024
Director of Student Services, 黑料社 Tri-Cities

Laura Sanchez holds a Master’s degree in Communication and a Bachelor’s in both Communication and Sociology, an academic journey that laid the foundation for an impactful career. As the Director of Student Services at Washington State University, TriCities, Laura supervises various departments crucial to student success, leading with a focus on equity and inclusion. Her impact on the Washington State University, Tri-Cities campus, and the broader community is nothing short of transformative.

In the words of her nominators, Laura’s leadership is marked by a steadfast commitment to equity and inclusion in all things. She leads with intentionality and a commitment to transparent and accessible workplace structures and workflows, elevating the quality and productivity of every unit she oversees.

Laura’s role on the team that is working to put together an application for the Seal of Excelencia exemplifies her dedication to advancing Latino Student Success on campus. Along with her colleagues, Laura’s tireless efforts have been instrumental in laying the groundwork for a campus where students can bring their whole selves and thrive.

Beyond her professional responsibilities, Laura’s impact extends into the broader community, where she is regarded as a beacon of inclusive leadership. She has been involved in various community endeavors, including serving as a member of the Hispanic Business/ Professional Association of Spokane and volunteering her time to support initiatives that uplift underserved communities. Laura’s recognition as the 2023 Latina Educator of the Year by the TriCities Hispanic Chamber of Commerce is a testament to her intentional, passionate, and inclusive leadership.

By Lacey Desserault

Noel Schulz has been appointed to the Bob Ferguson Endowed Professorship at Washington State University Tri-Cities. This follows Schulz鈥檚 recent appointment to inaugural director of the Institute for Northwest Energy Futures (INEF) in Aug. 2023.

As an endowed professor, Schulz will provide expertise and guidance in furthering the INEF鈥檚 function of research, development, and education associated with realizing the 21^st century low-carbon energy transitions over the next decades in the region. The role allows Schulz to conduct scholarly work related to INEF鈥檚 clean energy goals and hire graduate assistants.

鈥淚t is an honor to be named the Bob Ferguson Endowed Professor. His leadership in the Tri-Cities and energy field provided momentum for INEF and its activities,鈥� said Noel Schulz. 鈥淭his support will assist me in continuing research activities in the INEF area.鈥�

The funding for the professorship position was gifted to the 黑料社 Foundation by Bob Ferguson, a veteran in the nuclear field and longtime supporter of 黑料社 Tri-Cities鈥� clean energy initiatives. Ferguson鈥檚 donations also helped establish INEF in hopes that the funds would contribute to a clean energy future by developing pathways for developing, integrating, and sustaining the resources of the region. This gift helped lay the foundation for the recent investment by the state of Washington for INEF activities.

鈥淣oel鈥檚 leadership and expertise will be great assets to the institute,鈥� said Sandra Haynes, chancellor of 黑料社 Tri-Cities. 鈥淗er enthusiasm for the work and mission of INEF are evident and I look forward to the progress she will make in this new role.鈥�

By Seth Truscott

Creating plant-based fuels that are easier on the environment and the pocketbook, Washington State University Professor Bin Yang makes a positive impact through chemical engineering.

Yang is now one of the newest Fellows of the听听(AIChE), a professional society of more than 60,000 scientists in 110 countries. He will be honored at the institute鈥檚听, Nov. 5-10, 2023, at Orlando, Fla.

鈥淚 take nature as my inspiration,鈥� said Yang, who works to understand and develop advanced biofuels and bioproducts from plant biomass鈥攃rops and plant residue used to create energy鈥攚hile sharing knowledge and training the next generation of scientists.

鈥淢y ultimate goal is a real sustainability revolution,鈥� he said. 鈥淚鈥檓 working to develop sustainable low-carbon fuels that reduce climate change.鈥�

Fellow is the highest grade of membership in the institute, which fosters exchange on the frontiers of research in energy, sustainability, nanotechnology, and chemical plant safety and security. Fellows provide guidance and contribute to activities aiding development of safe and useful products for the benefit of society.

鈥淚鈥檓 humbled and deeply grateful for this award,鈥� said Yang, who thanked peers and colleagues who supported his nomination.

Involved with AIChE for the past 20 years, he has been a volunteer leader, organizing topical sessions and serving as a session chair. He is one of three 黑料社 scientists to be named Fellows of the Institute. Yong Wang and Richard Zollars, faculty in the Voiland College of Engineering and Architecture, were previously named Fellows.

Developing new and sustainable fuels and products from biomass, Professor Bin Yang works with members of his lab at 黑料社 Tri-Cities.

Based at 黑料社 Tri-Cities for over a decade and a member of of the听, Yang has pioneered new technologies to process biomass into jet fuel, bioplastics, carbon fiber, supercapacitors, hydrogen carriers, and other bioproducts.

鈥淏iofuels and bioproducts play a crucial role in decarbonization efforts by promoting sustainable alternatives to fossil-based products and processes,鈥� Yang said. 鈥淚nnovation is key to achieving a sustainable future for the world.鈥�

A member of the university鈥檚 Bioproducts, Sciences and Engineering Laboratory (BSEL), Yang also studies how microbes can produce a biodegradable plastic. He was a 2019 Fulbright Distinguished Chair in Energy and Sustainable Use of Natural Resources; holds six patents; has authored more than 135 papers and book chapters; and serves as an editorial and advisory board member for leading biorefinery journals.

Learn more about Yang鈥檚 work at his听.

A longtime working relationship between Washington State University (黑料社) scientist Tom Collins and Jackson Family Wines has evolved into the creation of an endowed professorship that recognizes Collins鈥� impactful wine science research and supports听(V&E).

The Jackson family has recently committed $300,000 to the University to create the Jackson Family Wines Endowed Professor, with Tom Collins selected as its first recipient. The funds will support Collins鈥� innovative wine & grape research, promote sustainability in viticulture and enology, and further elevate 黑料社鈥檚 V&E program, which officially became a department on Jan. 1, 2023.

Collins, who was named听, has long collaborated with Jackson Family Wines on a variety of projects to further research and development on wine quality, including research related to smoke-exposed grapes. 鈥淎n endowed professorship is a terrific honor, and I鈥檓 thrilled to be the recipient,鈥� says Tom Collins, now officially the V&E department鈥檚 Jackson Family Wines Endowed Professor. 鈥淭his is a great opportunity for my program. The endowment provides yearly assistance and flexibility to support projects that arise in the middle of a grant cycle.鈥�

Discussions regarding the endowment began in 2022, when Collins and a graduate student were developing techniques to quantify novel smoke related compounds in grapes and wine. To advance their research, Collins requested access to instrumentation equipment at Jackson Family Wines鈥� facilities in California. What started as a conversation about sharing costs for supplies and student travel eventually evolved into an endowed professorship representing a commitment to continued partnership between 黑料社 and the family-owned wine company.

In 2022, Jackson Family Wines purchased 61 acres of an existing 117-acre property located in Mill Creek in the eastern region of Washington鈥檚 Walla Walla Valley. The family鈥檚 venture into Washington complements the company鈥檚 existing holdings in the Pacific Northwest, namely in Oregon鈥檚 Willamette Valley. The family is currently planning for the release of wines produced from the vineyard under the care of winemakers Chris Carpenter and Gianna Ghilarducci as part of a new brand currently under development.

鈥淪ince acquiring our first vineyard in Washington state last year, we鈥檝e sought to strengthen our connections in the region and find opportunities to support the local Washington wine industry,鈥� says Christopher Jackson, second-generation proprietor of Jackson Family Wines. 鈥淲e鈥檝e long admired Tom Collins and his commitment to research that brings more innovation to viticulture and winemaking. We鈥檙e proud to create this endowment that brings more resources to studying the impacts of smoke on winemaking. Our hope is that Tom鈥檚 continued research will not only benefit the local Washington winemaking community, but the global wine industry as well,鈥� he added.

Jackson Family Wines believes in the concept of leading through action.听 The company takes pride in the role they play in advancing sustainability projects and initiatives to preserve and protect land, enhance biodiversity, improve water habitat, implement climate solutions, and support and fund critical research that improves sustainable vineyard practices, viticulture methods, and winemaking quality. In addition to the creation of this endowment at Washington State University, the Jackson family has supported other universities and research. This includes funding the Jess S. Jackson Sustainable Winery Building within the Department of Viticulture and Enology at U.C. Davis, a 8,500 square-foot winery that is the first self-sustainable, zero-carbon teaching and research facility in the world. The Jackson family has also collaborated with other research institutes and universities, local resource conservation agencies, Fish and Wildlife Services, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Agency (NOAA), Trout鈥檚 Unlimited to improve watersheds, study water conservation methods, and more.

鈥淭he endowed professorship recognizes Tom鈥檚 influential smoke-affected grape research and demonstrates Jackson Family Wines鈥� commitment to the future of 黑料社鈥檚 V&E department,鈥� says Wendy Powers, Cashup Davis Family Endowed Dean of 黑料社鈥檚 College of Agricultural, Human, and Natural Resource Sciences (CAHNRS). 鈥淭he funds will enable CAHNRS to foster a more resilient Washington and support the state鈥檚 wine industry as we adapt to a changing climate.鈥�

鈥淭he endowment is an investment in the future of our department, an inspiration to our stakeholders and the faculty team, as well as a welcome acknowledgement of Tom鈥檚 record of research excellence,鈥� adds V&E Department Chair Jean Dodson Peterson. 鈥淲e are truly grateful for this gift and look forward to the continuation of research that guides the future of the grape and wine industry.鈥�

黑料社 Washington State University鈥檚 Viticulture & Enology Department
The 黑料社 Viticulture & Enology (V&E) Department is a comprehensive education and research program that prepares students for successful careers in the wine industry and supports the region鈥檚 winemakers and grape growers. Enhanced by renowned faculty and state-of-the-art facilities, the V&E Department takes a hands-on, multidisciplinary approach, offering students technical, scientific, and practical experience.

黑料社 Jackson Family Wines
Jackson Family Wines is a family-owned, vineyard-based company with a penchant for exploration. Founder Jess Jackson placed his faith in farming and a meticulous expression of wine with his first landscape-changing vintage in 1982, an ethos that chairman Barbara Banke and the Jackson family continue to uphold to this day. The鈥疛ackson family鈥檚 collection of鈥�40 wineries spans significant winegrowing regions, from California, Oregon, Washington, Canada, France and Italy in the northern hemisphere, to Australia, Chile and South Africa in the southern half of the globe. Vineyard ownership and sustainable practices remain key to consistent quality and artisan winemaking is built to scale, underscoring a steadfast commitment to making wines of character and integrity. For more information, visit听

听By听Tina Hilding,听Voiland College of Engineering and Architecture

A novel method to extract lignin could help spin wheat straw into gold. Lignin produced using the new method was color-neutral, odorless and homogenous, an advance that could make this carbon-neutral material a more viable candidate for development of high-value products.

Reporting in the听, the Washington State University researchers extracted up to 93% lignin with up to 98% purity from wheat straw, producing a significant amount of material in a uniform way that could make it more attractive for industry use.

鈥淭his method allows us to extract lignin from plant material in its native form and at a high yield,鈥� said Xiao Zhang, professor in 黑料社鈥檚 Gene and Linda Voiland School of Chemical Engineering and Bioengineering, who led the work. 鈥淲e were able to demonstrate to industry that it is possible to make color-neutral and odorless lignin, and we can make quite a bit of the material to begin evaluating its applications.鈥�

Lignin is the second most abundant renewable carbon source, making up about 30% of the non-fossil fuel-based carbon on Earth. It is in all vascular plants, where it forms cell walls and provides plants with rigidity. Lignin allows trees to stand, gives vegetables their firmness and makes up about 20%-35% of the weight of wood. The material holds great promise as a precursor for biobased materials and fuels, but it is also notoriously difficult to extract from plants.

The material is usually separated during papermaking and biorefining, but these processes often contaminate and significantly alter lignin鈥檚 chemical and physical properties, decreasing its value. So most lignin is either burned to produce fuel and electricity or used in low-value products, such as for cement additives or as a binder in animal feed. Producing a more homogenous lignin provides the opportunity to pursue high-value material development to replace petroleum-derived plastics and polymers.

鈥淏ecause of its heterogeneity, lignin can鈥檛 be used as a valuable material despite centuries of effort,鈥� said Zhang, who holds a joint appointment with Pacific Northwest National Laboratory. 鈥淭he saying has been that 鈥榶ou can make anything out of lignin, except money.鈥� There鈥檚 so much heterogeneity in the molecules that nobody can reliably make things out of it.鈥�

In their work, the researchers used a solvent to separate the lignin from wheat straw and were able to preserve and control its key properties, producing a more uniform molecule with a consistent molecular weight that makes it more useful for industry. The lignin extracted was light-colored, which is more like the lignin that exists in nature.

Because it is an electron-rich compound, the lignin had a strong affinity for the solvent, and the electron interactions allowed the researchers to extract it with minimal chemical reactions, which protected its natural molecular structure that is so often easily damaged in chemical separations.

黑料社鈥檚听听has filed a provisional patent and will assist the researchers for the scale-up and eventual commercialization of this technology. To make it more viable for industry applications, the research team is working to decrease the lengthy processing time and the amount of purification chemicals needed. The work was done in collaboration with Edoardo Apra, a computational scientist from PNNL, and Professor Art Ragauskas from University of Tennessee, Knoxville. It was supported by the National Science Foundation and the U.S. Department of Agriculture National Institute of Food and Agriculture as well as 黑料社鈥檚 Commercialization Gap fund.