Frequently asked Questions
Registration
Do I need to register for the summit?
YES. ALL ATTENDEES, BOTH STUDENTS AND ADULT CHAPERONES, MUST REGISTER TO ATTEND
When I tried to register, it said that registration had closed. Is there a waitlist I can get on?
Unfortunately, we are unable to have a waitlist for the summit. Registration is capped at our capacity plus 30 percent, which takes into account the substantial number of no-show attendees on the day of the summit.
I forgot to register/registration is closed. Can I just show up to the summit?
Only registered students will be guaranteed admittance to the summit. If an unregistered student shows up on the day of the summit, they will be required to wait in the will call area until all registered students have been processed. In the event that there is still space available after all the registered students have been admitted, unregistered students will be admitted in the order that they arrived. After we have reached capacity, any remaining unregistered students are required to leave the campus for liability purposes.
Attendance
Why can’t middle school aged students attend?
Although we have allowed 8th grade students to attend in previous years, the summit is now reserved for high school students only for the following reasons:
Maturity level: The planning committee strives to bring presenters and topics to the summit that speak to current events and issues important to young students of color. As many of the topics discussed revolve around the dense and multi-faceted issue of social justice, many middle school students do not have the comprehension level needed to both engage in, and respect, this dialogue.
Behavior: Attending the summit requires students to have the strong personal responsibility and critical listening skills that are more common in older students; we simply do not have the staff or the ability to continuously monitor individuals who need to be reminded consistently to behave appropriately.
How long is the summit?
The summit is an all-day event, from approximately 8:00am to 4:00pm.
What if I arrive late?
We cannot facilitate late arrivals. Our registration and check-in tables open at 8:00 am sharp and close promptly at 9:15 am when the keynote speaker begins. IF YOU ARRIVE AFTER 9:15 AM, EVEN IF YOU HAVE REGISTERED, YOU WILL NOT BE ABLE TO ATTEND THE SUMMIT.
Cost, Location, and Programming
How much does it cost to attend?
The summit is FREE to attend.
Where is the summit?
The student summit is located in the Student Union Building (Bldg 8) on the Highline College campus, with adult chaperone programming located in Building 7. Individual student workshops are held in various classrooms on campus; students are escorted by summit volunteers to and from these classrooms.
Do I need to bring my own food?
No. Breakfast, lunch, and snacks will be provided for you.
What workshops will I be attending?
Workshops will be assigned as students are processed through the registration table the day of the summit.
I want to see a particular workshop presenter. How can I ensure a seat in her specific workshop?
To ensure equal workshop sizes, students are assigned a workshop. Students are not able to choose their workshops. However, workshop presentations are thoroughly screened by the Y.E.L.L. Planning Committee to ensure each workshop is equally informative, engaging, and impactful.
For Adult Chaperones
I’m an adult chaperone for a school/organization but I don’t know which students I’m bringing yet. Can I just hold some spots?
No. All attendees (both students and adults) must be registered individually to attend. We can NOT hold spots under any circumstances.
I’m a chaperone and some of the registered students I was supposed to bring can’t come. Can I substitute different students in their place?
No. If a student or adult has registered but is unable to attend, they cannot substitute another individual.
As a chaperone, will I stay with my student throughout the day?
No. Adult chaperones/attendees and students are on different activity tracks in different buildings. The summit is for the students and part of the impact of the summit comes from being able to have real, open dialogue. Please respect this space and understand that you will be reconnected with your students at the close of the summit.
I’m a chaperone who is bringing multiple students. Can I send you a list of the students attending instead of registering them all?
We greatly appreciate attendees or adult chaperones registering themselves and/or their students. Having attendees or chaperones directly enter their information increases accuracy, so we politely ask that you register attendees individually.
I want to see a particular workshop presenter. How can I ensure a seat in her specific workshop?
As the summit is geared focused and created for high school aged females, chaperones are not permitted to sit in on these workshops; adult chaperones are able to view the keynote speeches remotely but have a fixed adult chaperone agenda in an adjacent building.
This is a valuable, transformative event that I want to be a part of. How can I get involved?
If you would like to volunteer at this year’s or a future Summit, please contact Tanisha WIlliams or Rickitia Reid.
My students received a t-shirt/lanyard/giveaway item. Do adult chaperones also receive giveaway items?
Unfortunately, adult chaperones are ineligible to receive giveaways. As Highline absorbs the entire cost of the summit, we decided to limit giveaways to students to increase the quality and quantity of items they receive.
Will all my students stay together if I bring a group of students?
One of the values of the summit is to encourage meaningful conversations and create new friendships. In order to facilitate this, students are assigned to workshops by individual rather than by school. Some students in you group may end up in the same workshop by chance, but it is highly unlikely that you student group will stay together for the entirety of the summit.
presenters & panelists
Kechi Amaefule
Kechi Amaefule is radiant and relatable speaker, author and certified life coach who inspires others to continue striving for greatness despite life’s obstacles. Born in Seattle, WA and raised by her Nigerian parents, she was exposed to the idea that anything you want in this life is achievable with dedication, strategy, and resilience. This ideation kick started her mission to assist women and young girls in shifting their mindset to progress positively and it remains at the center of all that she does. Through speaking engagements, workshop curation/ facilitation, and her work as the Executive Director and Founder of the nonprofit “Mothers Impacting Lives Every day (MILE)”, she empowers women and young girls to break down barriers and begin their journey of self-improvement and personal development. Her message to all she encounters is to understand that although you may run into detours, you can still make it to your destination through healing, perseverance and self-worth.
Marwa Almusawi
Salam! My name is Marwa Almusawi (she/her). I am of Arab American heritage and spent my formative years in Iraq, Iran, Jordan, and Syria. I am honored to serve as the Director for the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. I obtained my Master's degree in Education with a focus on examining the politicization of Muslim women’s representations. During my leisure time, I love finding great local cafes, baking, and hosting family and community!
Trinity Schanbeck
Trinity is a student who studies automotive technology at Green River College. Her current position at the college is a Relationships and Sexual Violence Prevention Peer Educator at the Center for Transformational Wellness in the College. She works to creative a safe environment at the college through her connections with other students and workshops.
Samriddhi Agarwal
I, Samriddhi Agarwal, am a queer women of color, a psychology student, and a peer educator with the Relationship and Sexual Violence Prevention (RSVP) program at the Center for Transformational Wellness at Green River College. I am passionate about exploring the intersections of gender, race, identity, and internalized oppression.I was raised in a space where patriarchy was tradition and self-worth was conditional. I learned early how deeply internalized misogyny can cut, especially when it comes dressed as love, culture, or protection. I spent the last few years unlearning those messages and helping others do the same. Through this journey, I aim to speak the truth, build community, and make sure no other girl grows up believing she’s too much, or not enough.
Elizabeth Rangel
Liz is a first-generation Latina who encountered a mentor from the TRiO Upward Bound Program that pushed her to find education as her way out of her abusive home life. She attended Big Bend Community College and dealt with homelessness, a family member behind bars, and the responsibility of helping to raise her nephew all while attending her first two years of college. After graduating from BBCC she took the initiative to apply and was accepted to 4 Universities before she decided to finish her bachelor’s in art with a minor in Spanish at Central Washington University. In her last year of college, Elizabeth had her daughter which helped push her to the completion of her bachelor’s degree. Since 2007 she has been working in education and has found her way through life's many obstacles and storms. She has received her master’s degree and entered into a new season of life.
Briana Quintanilla
Briana Quintanilla (Bri) works for the UW Sisterhood Initiative, where she advises and instructs incoming college students, primarily serving women of color. Bri is committed to helping students succeed in environments that support personal growth and belonging. No matter where she is, Bri aims to bring good vibes, great energy, and a reminder that community is everything.
Nicole Coope
Nicole Coope, LMHC, NCC, is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Certified Mediator, and Executive Communication Coach with over 20 years of experience helping individuals and organizations break unhealthy patterns and build strong, empowered futures. As co-owner of Kanoa, Inc., Nicole draws on her background in counseling, project management, and coaching to support personal growth, self-awareness, and leadership at every level. She is passionate about guiding young women to rise above limiting labels and thrive with purpose.
Cindy Jasmine Arias
Cindy J. Arias (she/her) is a first-generation graduate of Highline College and the University of Washington. Cindy has over 5 years of experience working with the community and for the city. Her background includes working at the nonprofit, where she taught coding to underserved and marginalized communities, as well as serving for the City of Kent. At Highline College, she currently serves as the Inter-Cultural Center Leadership Advisor, advocating for equitable and inclusive initiatives for students on campus. In her free time, Cindy enjoys photography, learning French, and spending time with her birds, chickens, cats, and dog.
SistahBoss
We are Marquinta Obomanu and Mary Wideman-Williams, co-founders of SistahBoss—a leadership development and support community for emerging and experienced Black women leaders. We create affirming workshops and trainings customized for Black women and girls to lead boldly, build meaningful connections, and create lasting legacies. Marquinta brings a rich background in youth development, with past work through Seattle University, the YMCA, Garfield High School, and Atlantic Street Center. She designs empowering spaces for Black girls to connect, grow, and thrive. Mary is a seasoned executive coach, educator, and leadership strategist with over 25 years of experience helping people lead with clarity and purpose. We’d be honored to bring our energy and expertise to this year’s summit. It would be a wonderful opportunity to connect with these future leaders and help them own their brilliance from the inside out!
Elizabeth Vidaurri
Elizabeth (Liz) Vidaurri brings over a decade of experience in the education sector, supporting students from K–12 through college. Her work centers on one-on-one mentorship, student engagement, and equity-driven initiatives that foster holistic student wellness. As a first-generation college graduate, Liz holds a B.A. in International Education & Development and an M.A. in Higher Education. She currently serves as a College Success & Completion Coach with the College Success Foundation
Shawna Freeman Lane
Dr. Shawna Freeman Lane is the Interim Vice President of Equity, Engagement, and Belonging and Dean of Employee Learning and Development (ELAD)/eLearning at Pierce College. Shawna holds a doctor of education (EdD) degree in Educational and Organizational Learning and Leadership from Seattle University, a Masters of Business Administration (MBA) and a Bachelor of Arts in Communications/Journalism from Augusta State University. With over 10 years of higher education teaching experience and professional development leadership, Shawna is dedicated to supporting student success through innovative, engaging, and inclusive practices. Shawna is a Part-time Business Faculty at University of Washington Tacoma, and prior to Pierce College, Shawna served as a tenured business faculty member, business department chair, and interim Associate Dean of Student Learning and Success at Highline College.
Colina Bruce, MNPL
Colina Bruce is the Founder and CEO of Noir Lux Candle Co., a Black woman-owned lifestyle and self-care brand rooted in creativity, culture, and community. What began as a pandemic passion project in her kitchen has grown into a thriving business and destination—home to Washington state's first Black-owned candle bar. Noir Lux offers hand-poured soy candles, custom corporate gifting, and in-person experiences that are rooted in joy, self-care, and gratitude. A proud double alum of Seattle University, Colina holds both BA in Communications and Masters in Nonprofit Leadership. At SU, Colina developed a deep commitment to leadership, service, and social impact. Her work reflects these values, with a strong focus on giving back through nonprofit partnerships, youth mentorship, and economic empowerment.
Noir Lux has been recognized in Oprah Daily and has become known for being the first and only company to create a custom candle collection for Starbucks Reserve, among other collaborative partnerships. Colina’s mission is to create a legacy of wellness, ownership, and opportunity—one candle at a time.
Yvette Ferrell
Yvette Ferrell is a proud Asian-American, first-generation college graduate, U.S. Army veteran, and mother of two. With over 15 years of combined experience in both government and corporate leadership and change management, she knows firsthand the challenges women of color face in breaking through systemic barriers. From navigating military service to transitioning into executive roles, she brings resilience, cultural perspective, and a deep commitment to helping young women embrace their identity and strive for excellence -on their own terms and without compromise.
Kristine Reeves
Representative Kristine Reeves is a dedicated public servant, small business consultant, and #workingmom of two, representing Washington’s 30th Legislative District. Her journey from foster care and periods of homelessness to the state legislature underscores her commitment to public service and her deep understanding of the challenges faced by working families. In 2016, Reeves made history as the first Afro-Latina elected in WA, and the first Black woman elected to the State Legislature in 18 years. She currently serves as Chair of the House Agriculture & Natural Resources Committee and holds positions on the Education and Consumer Protection & Business Committees . Her leadership extends to her role as Chair of the Legislative Black Caucus, which, under her guidance, has grown to become the largest in the western United States at 14 members. Reeves is a first-generation college graduate, earning her bachelor’s degree in Political Science from Washington State University and a master’s in Organizational Leadership from Gonzaga University. She is currently pursuing a doctorate in industrial-organizational psychology, focusing on making political institutions more inclusive workplaces so our democracy represents us all. Her professional background includes serving as a Director of Economic Development at the Washington State Department of Commerce, working on veterans’ & military family issues for U.S. Senator Patty Murray, while serving as her South Sound & Kitsap District Director. As a small business owner, Reeves specializes in community, organizational, and economic development. Reeves’ legislative priorities reflect her lived experiences, focusing on economic equity, educational opportunity, and environmental sustainability. She has championed policies that support working families, veterans, and marginalized communities, demonstrating a steadfast commitment to fighting for a future that includes us all.
DJ Miloonthebeat
Stage name DJ Miloonthebeat has been In the DJ Industry for the past 5 years. With a strong listening base within the R&B, Hip Hop, and Neo-Soul communities. Although she's fresh to the DJ Industry, DJ Miloonthebeat can credit much of her success to her appreciation and commitment to providing a platform for Underground and Independent artists. DJ Miloonthebeat started during the Covid-19 pandemic in the Spring of 2020. She practiced for countless hours Via IG & FB Live to work on her craft in front of a live audience. She started hosting on IG/FB Live a show called R&B Wednesday which featured 90s R&B to New Age R&B. She also hosted another show on IG/FB Live called Mellow Monday which Featured Independent and Undiscovered artists. In October 2020 she became a resident DJ for the Blue Note where she remain until the establishment went out of business in 2022. On April 1st, 2021 DJ Miloonthebeat took RnB Wednesday to Theblock105.com and was named the number RnB Show up until 2023, Since then DJ Miloonthebeat has continued to build her brand Miloonthebeat Entertainment.
