The Master of Public Administration Capstone is a defining experience for our students—bringing theory into conversation with practice and connecting mission-driven learning to real-world public service. This spring, Olympia Capstone 2026 students have the opportunity to learn from an outstanding group of guest speakers whose work spans local and state government, tribal leadership, equity-centered policy, and systems change.
Each speaker brings lived experience and professional insight aligned with the MPA program’s mission themes. We are honored to welcome the following leaders.
Thinking Critically and Creatively
Week 1 – April 2
Noah Coburn, PhD
Provost, The Evergreen State College
Dr. Noah Coburn, Provost of The Evergreen State College, opens the Capstone speaker series by grounding students in the importance of critical and creative thinking in public leadership. As Evergreen’s chief academic officer, Dr. Coburn brings a deep understanding of interdisciplinary education, institutional decision-making, and the role of higher education in advancing the public good.
His work challenges students to think expansively—questioning assumptions, embracing complexity, and using creativity as a tool for problem-solving in public and nonprofit organizations.
Communicating Effectively & Working Collaboratively
Week 3 – April 16
Dontae Payne, MPA
Mayor, City of Olympia
Mayor Dontae Payne brings a practitioner’s perspective on leadership, collaboration, and communication at the local level. As Olympia’s mayor, he works at the intersection of community engagement, policy development, and political leadership.
His experience highlights the importance of relationship-building, transparent communication, and coalition work—skills essential for public administrators navigating complex stakeholder environments. Dontae received his MPA from Evergreen in 2020.
Crystal Leatherman, MPA
Director of Policy and Government Affairs, Washington Retail Association
Crystal Leatherman offers insight into advocacy, policy development, and cross-sector collaboration. Representing businesses across Washington State, she works closely with legislators, agencies, and community partners to shape public policy.
Her perspective helps students understand how effective communication and collaboration operate across public, private, and nonprofit sectors—and why these skills are critical for durable, inclusive policy outcomes. Crystal received her MPA from Evergreen in 2020.
Embracing Diversity
Week 4 – April 23
Sam Fennell, MPA
Operations and Policy Manager, Washington State LGBTQ Commission
Sam Fennell’s work centers on advancing equity and inclusion for LGBTQ+ communities across Washington State. Through policy analysis, community engagement, and systems advocacy, Sam helps ensure that state policies reflect the lived experiences of historically marginalized communities.
Sam’s presentation emphasizes how public administrators can embed diversity, equity, and inclusion into daily operations—not as an add-on, but as a core responsibility. Sam received his MPA from Evergreen in 2024.
Megan Matthews, MPA
Director, Washington State Office of Equity
As Director of the Washington State Office of Equity, Megan Matthews leads statewide efforts to dismantle systemic barriers and advance equitable outcomes across government. Her leadership illustrates how data, policy, and accountability frameworks can be leveraged to create structural change.
Students gain insight into how equity work is operationalized at the state level—and the leadership required to sustain it. Megan received her MPA from Evergreen in 2019.
Valuing Fairness and Equity
Week 6 – May 7
Malika Lamont, MPA
Program Director, LEAD Support Bureau Washington State / Director, VOCAL-WA
Malika Lamont’s work sits at the intersection of criminal legal reform, public health, and community advocacy. Through the LEAD (Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion) program and her leadership with VOCAL-WA, she advances alternatives to punitive systems and centers community-based solutions.
Her experience demonstrates how public administrators can challenge inequitable systems while building partnerships that prioritize dignity, safety, and fairness. Malika received her MPA from Evergreen in 2015.
Meta Hogan
Program Manager for Homeless Outreach Stabilization and Transition at the Washington Healthcare Authority
Meta Hogan brings more than twenty years of experience working with individuals experiencing homelessness to her role as Program Manager for the Homeless Outreach Stabilization and Transition program at the Washington State Health Care Authority. Her career spans frontline and leadership roles—including outreach worker, case manager, shelter director, peer supervisor, and program director—grounding her work in deep, practice-based insight.
Her leadership centers on person-focused, trauma-informed approaches and strengthening statewide outreach and stabilization efforts. Hogan is committed to advancing equitable, coordinated solutions that support individuals in moving from crisis toward housing stability and recovery.
Advocating Powerfully on Behalf of the Public
Week 7 – May 14
Korbett Mosesly, MPA
Community Reinvestment Plan Managing Director, Washington State Department of Commerce
Korbett Mosesly’s work focuses on community reinvestment and economic justice. At the Washington State Department of Commerce, he leads efforts to ensure that public investments are responsive to community needs and aligned with equity goals.
His talk highlights how public administrators can advocate effectively within government systems—using policy, funding, and accountability tools to advance public interest outcomes. Korbett received his MPA from Evergreen in 2015.
Imagining New Possibilities for Positive Change
Week 9 – May 28
Kris Peters, MPA
Chairman, Squaxin Island Tribe
Chairman Kris Peters closes the Capstone speaker series by sharing a vision of leadership rooted in sovereignty, community resilience, and long-term stewardship. As Chairman of the Squaxin Island Tribe, he brings a powerful perspective on governance, economic development, and cultural continuity.
His leadership encourages students to imagine new possibilities for public service—grounded in respect, responsibility, and community-centered change. Kris received his MPA from Evergreen in 2016.
Learning from Leaders in Practice
Together, these guest speakers embody the values of the Evergreen MPA program and model what it means to lead with integrity, equity, and imagination. Their insights help Capstone students connect academic learning to real-world challenges—and prepare for meaningful careers in public and nonprofit service.
We are grateful to each speaker for sharing their time, experience, and wisdom with Capstone 2026.