Cynthia Anderson

Results-driven leader with strong background in advancing equity and inclusion in higher education through strategic leadership, innovative teaching, and impactful community engagement. Expertise in navigating complex challenges with a thoughtful and adaptive approach, driving initiatives that cultivate belonging and support diverse populations while embedding anti-racist and justice-oriented practices across programs and curricula. Proven ability to build cross-cultural relationships and effectively teach the principles of equity, inclusion, and belonging in both academic and organizational environments. Committed to fostering an inclusive culture that empowers individuals and promotes social justice.

• Featured speaker on Labor of Love: Kitchen Table Politics, a podcast featuring BIPOC adoptees navigating parenthood (2025)
• DEI Consultant – El Centro de Educación Creativa, Costa Rica (2023-2024)
• Speaker – NACADA National Conferences (2010, 2020)
• Speaker - Washington State League of Women Voters (2021)
• Performer – Yoni Ki Baat, Seattle Art Museum(2019)
• Performer KUOW StoryWallahs: What’s in your name? (2019)
• Facilitator – UW Master Workshops on Inclusive Advising (2008 - present)

Hiring & Selection Committees

• CHID Administrative, Outreach, Faculty, Program Assistant, and Work-Study Hiring Committees (2008–2022)

Campus Committees

• CHID Diversity, Curriculum, Alumni, and International Programs Committees (2006 - present)
• UW Dean & Provost Advisory Council on Teacher Preparation for UW School of Education (2008)
• Study Abroad Scholarship Selection Committee (2008 - present)

Community Engagement & Collaboration

• Co-Organizer, Black Lives Matter Ballard Events (2020–Present)
• Member, UW United with Students Steering Committee (2016–Present)
• Contributing speaker at the UW Center for Communication, Difference, and Equity ((2023)
• Research Collaborator, Seattle Central College & University of Washington Equity Research Initiative (2019–Present)

• Husky 100, University of Washington (2023)
  Recognized for making a significant impact on campus, in communities, and for leadership in learning and innovation.
• First-Generation Celebrated Staff Member, University of Washington (2023)
  Honored for contributions as a first-generation college graduate and advocate for student success.
• Distinguished Staff Award, University of Washington (2009)
  University-wide recognition for outstanding achievement and service.
• Professional Development Award, NACADA: The Global Community for Academic Advising (2013)
  Awarded for excellence in advising and commitment to professional growth.
• Global Citizenship Award, UW Study Abroad – PANGAEA Program (2008)
  Recognized for promoting intercultural understanding and global engagement.
• Centennial Queen, Sequim Irrigation Festival, Sequim, Washington (1995)
  Selected community ambassador during Washington’s oldest continuing festival