Alumni Corner Podcast

 Alumni Corner is a podcast from the University of Washington College of Education that highlights the journeys, leadership, and impact of our alumni working in education and communities around the world. 

Through thoughtful conversations, the series explores how alumni are shaping classrooms, institutions, policy, and research, and how their experiences continue to inform the future of education. Each episode centers alumni voices, real-world impact, and the many paths that begin at the College of Education. 

Want to learn more about the team behind the podcast? Visit our Advancement and Outreach page to explore the work supporting alumni engagement and storytelling at the College of Education. 

Episode 3 

In Episode 3 of Alumni Corner, alum Sam Uzwack, Head of School at Eastside Preparatory School, reflects on a career shaped by teaching, learning and a willingness to adapt. 

Sam shares how lessons from the classroom—including the importance of meeting students where they are—continue to shape his approach to leadership and supporting educators today. The conversation also explores the changing landscape of education, from adapting teaching practices to navigating emerging technologies like AI and finding new ways to keep students engaged.

Throughout the episode, Sam reflects on his time at the University of Washington, his growth from student to teacher to school leader, and why learning remains at the heart of effective leadership.

Watch Episode 3 on YouTube or listen wherever you get your podcasts.

Previous Episodes

Episode 1
The Cost of Inequity & the Power of Leadership with Dr. Trevor Greene & Dr. Kelly Aramaki
Watch Episode

Episode 2
Navigating Academia Across Borders & Cultures with Dr. Roxanna Chiappa
Watch Episode

Behind the Scenes 

Get a preview of Alumni Corner through behind-the-scenes moments from our recordings. Featuring alumni guests, studio setups, and candid moments from the conversations that will be released this spring.

  • Sam during Episode 3
  • Vanessa and Nelson during Episode 3
  • Sam, Vanessa, and Nelson during Episode 3
  • Sam, Vanessa, and Nelson's reaction during Episode 3
  • Roxana Chiappa featured in Episode 2
  • Vanessa Stone and Dr. Roxana Chiappa during Episode 2
  • Vanessa Stone during Episode 2
  • Dr. Kelly and Nelson during Episode 1
  • Hosts with Dr. Greene & Dr. Aramaki Featured in Episode 1

    Meet The Team

    Host: Nelson Wynn

    Assistant Director for Advancement, University of Washington College of Education

    Nelson Wynn serves as the Co-Host of Alumni Corner, leading conversations that center alumni voices, leadership, and lived experience. Through thoughtful dialogue, he creates space for meaningful reflection on education, community impact, and professional journeys, while highlighting the lasting connection between alumni and the College of Education.

    Co-Host: Vanessa Stone

    Assistant Director for Marketing & Communications, University of Washington College of Education

    Vanessa Stone serves as the Co Host of Alumni Corner, bringing a collaborative and reflective approach to each episode. She helps guide conversations that connect alumni stories to the broader mission, values, and storytelling priorities of the College of Education.

    Producer: Ebony Moxey

    Multimedia Content Specialist for Advancement, University of Washington College of Education

    Alumni Corner is produced by Ebony Moxey, who oversees the creative direction, production, and leadership, and execution of the series. The podcast is part of the College of Education’s ongoing efforts to elevate alumni stories, strengthen community connection, and showcase the impact of education across local and global contexts.

    Research Assistant: Winston

    Student worker, University of Washington College of Education 

    Freshman, Cristo Rey Jesuit Seattle High School

    Winston joins us through Cristo Rey Jesuit Seattle’s Corporate Work Study Program, gaining hands-on experience while building skills and confidence.

    A curious ninth-grader with a bright smile and love of learning, he brings thoughtful energy to our podcast work by researching alumni and the stories of educators we feature. We’re grateful to have him on our team as he explores his interests and grows.

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