2025 HAPPEN Executive Leadership Team Special Elections
In case you missed it: The following positions are up for special election on the HAPPEN Executive Leadership Team (ELT)!
Nominations are open for the new Special Projects Lead position. Brief bios and photos of nominees and position descriptions can be found on the HAPPEN website. The confirmed nominees are eligible for election.
HAPPEN members, as defined in Article IV, Section I in our bylaws, are encouraged to vote for their preferred candidates. Members may vote by completing this survey one time by June 26, 2025 (voting survey will close at 11:59 pm on Thursday, June 26, 2025).
Meet our Nominees
Upon acceptance of their nomination, nominees provided the following information for your consideration.
Jina Pak - Communications Lead nominee
I'm a Korean immigrant - First generation. I've immigrated in 2020 with 2 babies and invited my husband from Korea next year in 2021. I've worked as a CPA in accounting firm for about five years and as a tax examiner in estate tax unit of WA dept of Rev for 2.5 years. I've been in Compassion Korea NGO as a volunteer translator and fieldtrip to the countries in poverty for kids in need for about 10 years. I'm a WA licensed CPA with in-depth tax knowledge with 5 yrs experience in accounting firms and a tax examiner in WA DOR currently for 2.5 years as well as volunteer experience in Compassion Korea NGO for kids living in poverty country for about 10 yrs. Basically, I have a heart for DEI value in WA, I have a very suitable background to contribute and understand the people in need of tax help and communications coordinating. Because I truly appreciate WA, America, I hope I can contribute to become better communities as I mentioned above.
Keith Quinata - Co-Chair nominee
What really draws me to the co-chair position is the opportunity to help uplift and empower communities I personally identify with. I want to be part of something that centers stories that address voices that are often overlooked or lumped into a broader narrative that don't fully reflect our unique experiences, challenges, or strengths. I am dedicated to creating spaces for real dialogue, healing, and advocacy. I'm also passionate about social justice, especially when it comes to equity, representation, and dismantling systems that have historically marginalized our communities. This role feels like a meaningful way to not only represent but also serve alongside others who care deeply about that mission. I'm excited about leading that vision, of which I can work collaboratively to create programs, conversations, and strategies that honor our cultural identities while pushing for progress and visibility. It's more than just a position - it's a way to give back, build solidarity, and create lasting change for our people.
Noemi Cagatin-Porter - Mentorship nominee
I am honored to express my interest in serving as the Mentorship Committee Lead for HAPPEN. As an immigrant Filipina woman and lifelong advocate for community empowerment, I know firsthand the transformative power of mentorship and representation, especially in spaces where equity, access, and belonging are critical to both personal and professional success.
Throughout my career, I have worked at the intersections of housing, education, financial literacy, and community development. Currently, I serve in a leadership role with DSHS overseeing housing programs that support individuals with developmental disabilities,
I am the founder of CJK Community Homes, a nonprofit that combines culturally rooted support with wraparound services, housing more than 135 individuals across Pierce County. Half of our staff come from lived experience, and many are now mentors themselves, proving what is possible when we invest in people.
I am passionate about creating pathways for others to rise. That’s why mentorship has always been at the heart of my leadership. I’ve led youth financial literacy cohorts, supported BIPOC and immigrant women into homeownership, and guided young adults through education and employment transitions. I bring a trauma-informed lens and antiracist framework to this work, rooted in humility, curiosity, and a deep belief in human potential.
If elected, I will leverage my organizing and facilitation experience to build a mentorship program that is structured, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of our membership. I will ensure mentors and mentees are equipped with toolkits, matched with intention, and supported throughout their journey. I am also committed to cultivating a culture of learning through regular cohort meetings, peer support, and growth-oriented feedback loops.
Serving on the Executive Committee is not just a responsibility I would uphold, it’s a commitment I make to advocate for our members and their communities. I am prepared to foster trusted relationships, elevate critical issues, and help advance HAPPEN’s mission with integrity, transparency, and care.
Thank you for considering me for this opportunity. I am ready to listen, lead, and serve.
Sandra House - Mentorship nominee
As a proud 1st generation, Vietnamese-American woman born and raised in Northern California, my roots are deeply grounded in a culture of resilience, community, and adaptability. Growing up in the vibrant Bay Area, I was surrounded by diversity and opportunity, which helped shape my passion for connecting with others and building meaningful relationships. That passion eventually guided my career path and continues to be the driving force behind everything I do today. My journey to Washington started when I joined the U.S. Navy. It was one of the most transformative chapters of my life. The Navy brought me to the Pacific Northwest, where I discovered not only a beautiful place to live, but also a deep sense of community and purpose. After completing my service, I made the decision to stay—and it’s been home ever since. These days, I work as a Talent and Outreach Consultant at the OIC, and I truly love what I do. I’m passionate about recruiting because it’s all about people. I thrive on building relationships, learning people’s stories, and helping them find the right roles where they can shine. Whether it’s sourcing top talent, improving outreach strategies, or championing inclusive hiring practices, I bring energy, empathy, and intention to every part of the process. Outside of work, my world revolves around my family. Being a bonus mom to three amazing kids keep me busy! Our weekends are often filled with laughter, good food, and family movie nights—moments I treasure deeply. I also find comfort in the quieter things: spending time with my husband over a home-cooked meal, getting lost in a good book, or simply enjoying the company of our cat, Jayde, who rules the household with tons of sass and charm. As I continue to grow personally and professionally, I remain committed to giving back, lifting others up, and creating inclusive spaces wherever I go. Whether it’s through mentorship, community outreach, or simply sharing my own journey, I believe in the power of connection and the importance of showing up fully—for ourselves, our families, and our communities.