Hailey was born and raised in Kansas City, Missouri, and served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 2019-2023 as an Aviation Ordnance Systems Technician at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni in Japan.

Her experiences in the military further developed her interest in health, service, and the systems that influence people’s well-being. After her enlistment ended, she enrolled at San Diego Mesa College before transferring to the University of Washington’s School of Public Health to complete a Bachelor of Arts in Public Health-Global Health. She plans to become a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist.

Outside of school, Hailey enjoys cooking and attempting challenging dishes, traveling abroad with her wife, learning new languages, and staying active.

Nikolai is a veteran of the U.S. Navy who worked as an AEGIS technician on naval cruisers. After transitioning out of the Navy, he chose to pursue a career in social work with the aim of helping service members.

He is currently earning his bachelor’s degree in Social Welfare at the University of Washington School of Social Work. He currently works at the SVL as a student peer mentor.

Jonathan served in the U.S. Army from 2014 to 2018 as a Carpentry and Masonry Specialist, in Bavaria Germany, and Fort Lewis, Washington. ​Following his enlistment and time working in property management, he enrolled at Seattle Central College.

Jonathan then transferred to the University of Washington to continue his education, where he is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Construction Management. ​Outside of his studies and professional pursuits, Jonathan enjoys climbing, skiing, sailing, and hiking. He also spends his vacations bumming around hostels preferably in a country he hasn’t been to before.

Lawrence is a veteran of the U.S. Air Force, serving for 5 years. Lawrence is originally from the Northeast, but eventually wound up in the Pacific Northwest at his duty station.

Lawrence is currently pursuing a master’s degree in social work and enjoys spending time reading, hanging out by the water, and live music.

Des, originally from Jefferson City, Missouri, served in the U.S. Navy from 2017-2024 as an Intelligence Specialist. They served as a geospatial analyst on two operational deployments aboard USS IWO JIMA and USS BATAAN. Notably, Des is a “Blue Nose” having crossed into the arctic circle. They witnessed the aurora borealis at sea.

At their last command, Des served as an aviation intelligence instructor at Electronic Attack Weapons School on Whidbey Island. There they were privy to remarkable mentorship from senior naval educators. Instructing revealed a passion for teaching and education.

Following their enlistment, Des enrolled at the University of Washington where they are studying English with ambitions to become an educator in the future.  In their off time, Des enjoys long runs along the Burke-Gilman trail, backpacking the Washington wilderness with their partner, Jaise, and hanging out with their cat Zucca (he has extra thumbs).

Matthew grew up in Washington state, and served in the United States Marine Corps from 2018-2023 as an F-18 Aviation Mechanic working in Beaufort, South Carolina.

After his service, Matthew began his higher education at Seattle Central Community College, and transferred after two years, applying to the UW Aerospace Engineering program where his mechanical experience has been a great boon.

When he isn’t studying or in class, Matthew enjoys playing board games, reading science fiction, and exploring Washington with his fiancé. At home, the two have a cat named Penelope, who loves cuddling, and listening to podcasts as a family.

Jace was born and raised in Korea. He currently is pursuing his MST at the University of Washington. Before coming to UW, Jace worked as an auditor at EY and served in the Army.

His experiences in auditing and military service shaped the perspective he brings to his studies and work. As a Veteran Peer Mentor, Jace looks forward to supporting the UW community, connecting with students and staff, and learning from colleagues while continuing his education.

Outside of work and school, Jace is a Liverpool fan and enjoys following the team. He also loves running, hiking, and spending time outdoors.

Evan is a veteran of the US Navy, where he served aboard submarines from 2013-2022. He worked in aerospace manufacturing at Blue Origin prior to attending the University of Washington as a full-time student.

Originally from southern California, he has lived in Washington for over 6 years and is attending UW to earn a BS in Engineering. In his free time, he enjoys playing sports, board games, and taking long walks on the beach with Shadow (pictured) .