Class of 1962 Endowed Scholarship
The Class of 1962 Endowed Scholarship was developed to commemorate the 1962 alumni’s collective experience at UW. Their generous gifts fund this scholarship in honor of their 50th Reunion and the 150th Anniversary of UW! The donors to this endowment, members of the University of Washington Class of 1962, wish to fund “the gap”: the growing number of middle-class students, many of whom do not qualify for federal funding or Husky Promise and must take out student loans and work full- or part-time to support their education.
The Class of 1962 Endowed Scholarship provides financial assistance to current undergraduate students at the University of Washington who are Washington State residents with demonstrated academic merit, leadership and service.
2023-2024 Scholars
Lynnea Gerecke
Architectural Design major
I am originally from Tacoma, Washington, and I am a rising Junior majoring in Architectural Design. I chose to pursue a career in Architecture because of my love of the arts, creative expression, and sustainability. Before college, you could find me at the dance studio at least 20 hours a week, practicing styles such as ballet, tap, contemporary, jazz, hip hop, and musical theater, creating an immense love for performance and dance. My love for dance and the arts continued during my time at the University of Washington. I am a member of Aura Dance Company, a Contemporary, Jazz, and Ballet R.S.O. The club meets 2-4 times a week, practicing dance technique, and rehearsing for upcoming performances. I am also a member of UW AIAS, a student organization dedicated to promoting the art and science of architecture. Outside of school, I enjoy baking, running, and traveling. In Spring 2023 I participated in a Study Abroad in London, England. My time abroad helped me to expand my knowledge of architecture, and culture. Creating a deeper appreciation of the world’s history and values. I currently serve as the Student Architecture Representative, on the College of Built Environment’s Diversity Council. I love my position on the council as I get to help guide the College of Built Environments in matters of social justice, diversity, equity, and inclusion. I am honored to have been chosen as a recipient for this year’s award. I was motivated to apply for the 1962 scholarship because I am very passionate about my education, and my future career as an architect. I am extremely grateful for this opportunity as it will allow me more time to focus on my studies and help make funding my education less stressful.
Lynnea’s short and long term goals: After receiving my undergraduate degree, I plan to attend graduate school to receive a Master in Architecture. Once a licensed architect, I hope to have my own architecture firm that focuses on designing community centers, residences, and schools for low-income and marginalized communities. This area of architecture inspires my love for helping others, especially those who may experience similar hardships to myself.
Lynneas’s tips: Keep an open mind. It’s important to remember that a different path isn’t always a bad one.
Tristan Jafari
Biochemistry major
Hi! My name is Tristan, I’m a Junior majoring in biochemistry. My experience at the University of Washington has been an interdisciplinary exploration shaped by my interests in academia, service, and healthcare. Courses in organic chemistry, biology, and mathematics have equipped me with a robust understanding of the fundamental principles that can be implemented in scientific inquiry. In fact, one of the highlights of my academic journey has been my involvement with the UW Medicine Diabetes Institute, where I’ve had the privilege of conducting research aimed at understanding the effects of sex hormone signaling on the development of cardiometabolic syndrome. Outside of the classroom, I work as an EMT in Snohomish County with patients experiencing homelessness and substance use disorders (SUDs) and as a Medical Scribe with the University District Street Medicine Team. These roles have also deepened my appreciation for the human side of medicine, reinforcing my commitment to advocating for patient populations. Ultimately, it is a love for learning and drive to improve human well-being that keeps me motivated! I am incredibly grateful for the generosity and support of the donors that made this scholarship possible and I am committed to making the most of this opportunity to further my academic and professional pursuits.
Tristan’s short and long term goals: I am applying to medical school next year while I continue my academic work as a biochemistry student, scientific work as an undergraduate researcher in the UW Diabetes Institute, and practical work as an EMT. In the long term, I hope to advance the field of emergency medicine through a combination of research innovation and patient care.
Tristan’s tips: Share the joy you find in pursuing your interests! Let it demonstrate your commitment, curiosity, and potential.
Scholarship Archive
Browse our archive for more Class of 1962 Endowed Scholarship history.