WA Institute for a Democratic Future – March 7, 2025

Upcoming Events

Join us on March 13 to support the Class of 2025’s trip to D.C. 

Join us next Thursday for the annual class’ Trivia Night and Silent Auction at Ozzie’s in Seattle.

Every year, WAIDF fellows take a transformative trip to Washington, D.C., to meet policymakers, build networks, and gain firsthand experience in leadership. Your participation helps make this journey a reality!

Get ready to bid on a treasure trove of items as well as professional services from the Class of 2025 fellows themselves! Who knew your next math tutor for your child, candidate or campaign website, Woodinville wine basket, , or a handmade ceramic vase and bouquet would be just a simple bid or two away?

A big part of Trivia Night is the Silent Auction where funds raised go to support the fellows’ upcoming D.C. trip in May. If you have cool political swag, a fun activity, books, booze, board games, or anything that you think would make a solid auction item, please reach out to Alexa Brenner (alexa.brenner@gmail.com) as soon as possible to coordinate details! 

WAIDF is heading back to Long Beach next month!
Join the Class of 2025 and alumni for a weekend of connection and programming. Programming will be Saturday 4/12 and Sunday 4/13, with arrival in Long Beach on Friday evening, 4/11. Sunday programming will be flexible for folks that want to leave late morning/afternoon to get home. 

A $25 registration fee is required. Once you register, we will send you a discount code to directly book your accommodations at either the Inn at Discovery Coast or Adrift.

“Our weekend in Vancouver and Olympia focused on engaging with local organizations and state officials regarding the budget, education, and infrastructure. Fellows spent Presidents’ Day on the Capitol Campus, once again shadowing representatives, senators, and lobbyists, and meeting with the House Democratic Caucus and statewide elected officials…”

Alumni Spotlight: Nancy Canales-Montiel, Class of 2024

Something new! In our Alumni Spotlights, you will learn about WAIDF graduates, their stories, successes, and memories of their time in the program. Catch up with them to learn how they impact change across Washington State.

With a passion for civic engagement and a commitment to serving communities, Nancy Canales-Montiel serves as the Executive Director for the Washington Student Association while assisting in curriculum building and teaching at Mi Centro’s civic education program; The Dolores Huerta Institute. Prior to taking on these roles, she served as the Development Coordinator at the Washington State Democratic Party. 

Learn more about her journey and insights as a political consultant focusing on civic education and her advice for those considering the program!