WA Institute for a Democratic Future – May 5, 2025

Thank you, Nikki and Rachel

Dear WAIDF Community,

After four years as Executive Director of the Washington Institute for a Democratic Future, Nicole Gomez will be stepping down from her role this summer. Rachel Alger will also be stepping down as Program Director after three years. As we prepare to welcome new staff, we want to take a moment to honor the depth and impact of Nicole and Rachel’s leadership—and to thank them for all they have given to this organization and community.

When Nicole joined our staff in 2021, WAIDF was in the midst of rebuilding. Like so many organizations, we suspended all programming during the pandemic. After this extended pause, resuming programming in 2022 required a full programmatic and operational restart. Under Nicole and Rachel’s leadership, we rebuilt our systems, strengthened our financial footing, and in 2025, welcomed our largest cohort since before the pandemic.

Both Nicole and Rachel have been gracious with their time as they have balanced WAIDF with other vital contributions to our progressive political ecosystem. Nicole has spent the past two years working full-time as a lobbyist for the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE). In that role, she has tirelessly advocated for workers – whether in the face of significant budget cuts, or urgent labor contract negotiations, or high-stakes ballot measures. Rachel has worked for change at the federal and local level, supporting Congresswoman DelBene for more than four years before becoming the Policy Director for Seattle Councilmember Rinck.

Nicole and Rachel leave behind a lasting legacy.

We will be honoring their service at the graduation of the Class of 2025 on the evening of Saturday, June 28th, in Seattle, and we would love to have you join us in thanking them and celebrating our newest fellows. Event details will be shared soon— we hope to see you there.

With deep gratitude,

Sam McVeety
Chair, Board of Directors
WA Institute for a Democratic Future

Show your KUDOS to Nikki and Rachel! 🫶

Let’s express our heartfelt gratitude to Nikki and Rachel by signing their Kudoboards. Please share your favorite memories, whether a photo, video, or a simple note of appreciation. Your contributions hold significant value and demonstrate your gratitude to them.

Let’s Storm the Arena!
Join WAIDF alumni and friends for a family-friendly night watching the Seattle Storm take on the Atlanta Dream on Friday, May 30th. Tip-off at 7 p.m.

Join us at Queen Anne Beer Hall (203 W Thomas St, Seattle, WA 98119) for the pre tip-off!

WAIDF has openings on our board of directors!

We’re seeking passionate, community-driven leaders to join our Board of Directors. As we approach our 30th year (in 2027) of shaping the next generation of civic and political leaders in Washington State and beyond, we invite individuals committed to equity, leadership development, and public service to help guide and grow our mission. Exciting things are on the horizon, and we want you to be a part of it!

If you’re ready to make an impact and support emerging leaders across the state, we encourage you to apply or nominate someone today!

Applications must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. on May 28th.

Email secretary@democraticfuture.org or a board member for more information.