Alumni Spotlight: Andrea | Where are they Now?

Connecting with our incredible Alumni! We’ve created this special section to catch up with them, learn about their transformative experiences with Palmer Scholars, and see how their journeys have evolved since then.

Andrea Cobb, Senior Program Office at the Gates Foundation

Andrea Cobb

When did you start at Palmer Scholars?

I graduated from Lincoln High School in 2000, the same year I applied for a scholarship with Palmer Scholars. I remember interviewing with Mr. Merle Palmer and others at Lincoln High School and was thrilled when I was awarded the scholarship. Merle and his wife, Rosie, encouraged a group of us scholarship recipients, including me, to consider attending Willamette University. They even organized a road trip to Willamette with Merle, Rosie, and Steve Schain. I held the scholarship from 2000 to 2004, and later, when I applied for graduate school, I received the Enhancement Award, which helped cover the cost of my master’s program from 2007 to 2009.

I reengaged with Palmer Scholars by serving two separate terms on its Board of Directors: from 2008 to 2011 and again from 2013 to 2017. This involvement gave me valuable insights into the organization's goals related to scholarships and mentorship support. My unique perspective as a former scholar allowed me to contribute new ideas for improving the program, particularly in enhancing family engagement. I believed that the personalized nature of the program could be further enriched by involving students' families more deeply. Additionally, my personal connection with Merle Palmer made it important for me to continue advancing his legacy and vision to support future students.

Where are you currently in your life?

In 2015, I was elected to the Tacoma School Board, where I served until 2021. Currently, I’m a Senior Program Officer on the K-12 Education team at the Gates Foundation. Throughout my professional career, I’ve focused primarily on education, working for organizations such as the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI). Serving on boards is an integral part of what I do, and I currently serve on the Tacoma Public Library Board of Trustees.

I credit Palmer Scholars for the support that early on motivated me to work in education, focusing on access to college and ensuring that students with potential can succeed in post-secondary pathways.

What advice do you have for current and future scholars?

The world is small, and every experience you have today builds toward future experiences and builds on those you’ve had previously. Take full advantage of personal connections, learning sessions, and every trip you can take. Continue to build your network and give back when you can. These opportunities will continue to serve you well in the future.

Are you a former Palmer Scholar? We would love to hear from you! Contact us to be featured on our next "Where are they Now" blogpost.