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Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education, 2018, �鶹��ý

When Sarah Holm graduated from Washington State University Vancouver in 2018 with a bachelor’s degree in elementary education, she left with more than a diploma. She carried with her a commitment to supporting all students and creating equitable learning opportunities—a perspective shaped by her experiences on campus and the faculty who guided and inspired her.

Holm chose �鶹��ý for its strong College of Education, Sport and Human Sciences and its focus on preparing teachers to support students with diverse learning needs. “I was seeking a pathway to become a teacher focused on special education and supporting multilingual students,” she said. “It was important for me to develop teaching skills while understanding how bias can influence instruction and contribute to inequities in educational outcomes.”

Today, Holm works as a student conduct coordinator and consultant, supporting schools in implementing fair and consistent approaches to student behavior. She partners closely with administrators and school teams to review cases, develop discipline practices and address disparities in outcomes. Holm also designs and delivers professional development for educators, equipping staff with strategies to promote inclusive, supportive learning environments and prevent behavioral challenges.

“By analyzing data and identifying trends, I help schools create systems that keep students engaged, supported and connected to learning,” Holm said.

A transformational campus experience
Holm speaks passionately about the faculty and staff who shaped her academic journey. She recalls professors who fostered tight-knit cohorts and encouraged deep, meaningful dialogue. She also credits academic advising for boosting her confidence and supporting her as both a student and stepmother managing ADHD.

One mentor in particular—Shameem Rakha, then vice co-chair of the bachelor of education program—had a lasting impact.

“As a student whose K–12 experience had been deeply affected by harmful language in my IEP, I struggled academically,” Holm said. “Shameem guided me past the obstacles holding me back. She ignited a deep desire to learn and grow within me.”

Holm’s time at �鶹��ý offered opportunities beyond the classroom as well. As a queer female veteran, she participated in the Focus Forward Fellowship through Purdue University, met with Sen. Patty Murray to discuss student loan debt and attended the Boeing Gala honoring Vietnam veterans. She also spoke on a WSU panel addressing the experiences of women veterans.

“I know I am the educator I am today because of the influence of my time in the College of Education, Sport and Human Sciences at �鶹��ý,” she said. “The mentorship, guidance and opportunities shaped my confidence and sense of purpose.”

Life beyond campus
Holm continues to stay connected to campus by walking the Cougar Trails and visiting favorite views of Mount Hood and Mount St. Helens. “It always reminds me of the perspective and growth I gained at �鶹��ý,” she said.

Cougar pride also runs in her family. Raised in eastern Washington, Holm grew up surrounded by Cougs—and apple orchards her great-uncles once partnered on with WSU. She fondly remembers drinking from faded Cougar-logo glasses at her grandparents’ home and reflects with pride on being the first grandchild to attend and graduate from college.

Holm uses a �鶹��ý lapel pin in her office to hold up one of her favorite quotes: “The farther we fall the higher we fly. The key to success is doing what's best for you and sticking to what will make you happy and grow.”

Advice for future Cougs
For current and future students, Holm emphasizes gratitude and resilience.

“Attending university is a privilege—it’s a gift,” she said. “Lean into your learning and growth. Reach out for support when it's hard. When it feels overwhelming or like giving up is the only option, remember that you’re often on the brink of greatness. Lean in, learn through the struggle and keep moving forward.”

And as every Coug knows, the community spans far and wide—Holm even heard a “Go Cougs!” on a solo snorkeling trip in Aruba.