WHO WE ARE

Marcia is presently retired after a long career in public, private, and academic settings. She most recently worked as the Director of Regional Relations for Washington State University, based out of offices in Seattle. She currently serves on the Citizens Advisory Board for the Thomas S. Foley Institute for Public Policy and Public Service, as well as the Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art WSU.

Mariam is a yoga instructor and personal fitness coach. Her professional background is in business development and event planning. She is from the Republic of Georgia and has lived in Tacoma since 1999. Mariam has been a long-term volunteer for the Tacoma Sister Cities International and WAC Tacoma. She enjoys outdoor activities, cooking, and spending time with her husband, son, and cat. 

Amy is a Senior Program Manager for The Borgen Project, a nonprofit located in Tacoma. Amy meets with members of Congress to build support for life-saving legislation and educates the organization's volunteers in advocacy skills to mobilize around how increased global programs and solutions are vital for addressing poverty and hunger. Amy enjoys spending time with her husband and two golden retrievers taking canoe trips and hikes. She also loves using rainy PNW days as an excuse to stay in with a good book. 

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Arthur DeLong is a partner at Eisenhower Carlson, LLC, where his practice focuses on mergers and acquisitions, and securities transactions.  He is a longtime board member of the Tacoma World Affairs Council, and lives in the North End of Tacoma with his wife and two children. Arthur enjoys living in the Pacific Northwest, with all the region has to offer.

John Lucas is a Professor of Political Science at Pierce College.  He received his Ph.D. from Indiana University, and his research focused on Nigerian politics.

Brian is retired after a successful, 40-year career in communications. His extensive portfolio of non-profit experience also includes leadership positions within PTA groups and the Everett-based Hands for Peacemaking Foundation (where he currently serves as president). He was staff liaison to several non-profits during his 11 years with the office of former Lt. Governor Brad Owen. He is an outdoor sports enthusiast, and enjoys spending time with his wife Dee, three adult children and three grandchildren.