We are so excited to welcome Jess Tholmer to the Washington State Opportunity Scholarship team as the new Event and Sponsorship Manager!

Why did you choose WSOS? What excited you the most about WSOS?

I was interested in WSOS’s mission and am excited at the newness and chance to be innovative at work. 

Tell us about yourself. What pathway brought you to WSOS?

I grew up quite poor, and my family is still stuck in cycles of generational poverty. I’m also Black-biracial—I lead with my intersecting identities, as we all do. I’m passionate about all resources and organizations that support leveling the playing field and giving folks a chance they may not have had otherwise. 

How does your job impact Opportunity Scholars?

As Events and Sponsorship Manager, I work with Opportunity Scholars as volunteers and guests, depending on the event. My job is to foster relationships and raise money, directly impacting WSOS’s ability to support our excellent Opportunity Scholars. 

What do you like to do outside of work?

I’m an avid watcher of things (movies, TV); I read a lot and write, usually about what I read. 

If you could live anywhere in the world for a year, where would it be?

Siciliy or somewhere in the Cork County area of Ireland— two of my ancestral homes!