Meet Amy
Education:
Yale University, MFA
Brandeis University, BA
Occupation:
Creative Manager, WA State Department of Health
Regional Committee & Boards:
Sound Cities Association, Public Issues Committee
King County Solid Waste Advisory Committee
King County Board of Health (Co- Vice Chair)
I have been a resident of Sammamish for 30 years. In 2021, I decided to run for City Council because the City leadership did not reflect the diversity of our community—35% of whom are people of color. Additionally, the City lacked a Climate Action Plan, and protecting our environment is one of my core values.
My parents immigrated to the US in the 1960’s. I am a first-generation Asian American, born and raised in Saginaw, Michigan—a working-class town that was once home to four General Motors plants. In the early 1970s, my parents opened the first Chinese restaurant in Saginaw. Like many immigrant families, they worked tirelessly to provide for our future, with the dream of sending me and my brother to college. The restaurant was a central part of our lives. As children, it was where we went after school for snacks. As teenagers, we spent our weekends there—cleaning and waiting tables. Today, our family’s journey would be considered a classic immigrant success story.
I am a graphic designer with decades of experience either designing or leading creative teams. I've had the privilege of guiding design teams at companies such as Starbucks, MOD Pizza, and currently at the Washington State Department of Health.
In addition to my professional life, I spent nine years as a stay-at-home mom to my two sons, who are now young adults. Later, I balanced the demands of a professional career as a single parent, and now I share the responsibilities of caring for an aging parent. These personal experiences have shaped my perspective and commitment to building a community that supports people across all stages of life.
Just as I did when I ran in 2021, I am running a lean, self-funded campaign. I believe that money often spent on local political campaigns can have a greater impact when directed to organizations that serve our community. If you are inclined to support, I encourage you to donate to two local nonprofits doing meaningful work: Eastside Friends of Seniors, supporting aging adults with essential services. The Garage, A Teen Cafe in Issaquah, providing a safe and inclusive space for local youth.