Communities In Schools of Washington is entering an exciting new chapter, and we’re proud to share some leadership news with our community.
Thank You, Hannah
Before we look ahead, we want to look back and say thank you. For the past year and a half, Hannah Gbenro served as our Board Chair with dedication, leadership, and a deep commitment to the students and schools served across the CIS WA network. Under her guidance, CISWA grew stronger and deepened its impact statewide.
On behalf of the entire CISWA community: thank you, Hannah, for your years of service and your heart for this mission.
Introducing Our New Executive Board Leadership
Effective July 1st, we’re proud to welcome a new slate of Executive Board leaders:
- Chair: Heather Andersen
- Vice Chair: Tod Droppelman
- Secretary: MarcKia Wilson
- Treasurer: Donna Clark
From Donor to Chair: Heather Andersen’s CISWA Journey
Heather Andersen’s story with CISWA didn’t start on the board. It started as a donor.
Along with her husband and the entire Andersen family, Heather has been a proud CISWA supporter for years, believing deeply in the power of caring adults inside schools. That belief turned into board service, and now, board leadership. Her journey from supporter to board member to chair reflects exactly what we hope for every CISWA champion: a relationship that grows deeper over time.
We connected with Heather to hear more about what brought her to CISWA and what she hopes to build in the years ahead.
“When my youngest started elementary school, I knew I wanted to find a way to give back somewhere I could truly make a difference. CISWA was that place. The more stories I heard, the more passionate I became. Hearing about the deep, multi-layered impact this organization has on students across Washington is what drives me to give not just financially, but with my time and heart. As Chair, I look forward to working hand in hand with Gwynth and her team to meet our fundraising and growth goals while being their biggest supporter and sounding board. The state organization has a unique opportunity to access resources and funding that local affiliates can’t always reach on their own, and when we work together as one, we grow bigger, better, and stronger for every student in Washington.”
— Heather Andersen, Incoming Board Chair, Communities In Schools of Washington
A Note from Executive Director Gwynth Nelson
Leadership transitions are a moment to reflect on how far we’ve come. Hannah helped carry us through incredible growth, and I’m deeply grateful for everything she brought to this organization.
I’m excited for this next chapter under Heather’s leadership. Her family’s long history as CISWA supporters means she understands, in a personal way, the impact this work has on students and communities across Washington. I look forward to everything we’ll build together.
— Gwynth Nelson, State Office Director, Communities In Schools of Washington
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