Local Leaders Bring Diverse Expertise & Unwavering Commitment to Expand Reach and Propel Organization’s Mission Forward

Seattle, WA – July 31, 2024 – Big Brothers Big Sisters of Puget Sound proudly announces the appointment of seven distinguished professionals to its esteemed Board of Directors. Brian Clevenger, Corey Rosemond, Mark Ghazai, Heather Tabler, Michelle Alverson, Natalie Zier, and Brent Schlosstein join the organization, bringing with them a wealth of expertise and a shared commitment to empowering youth in the Puget Sound region.

Michelle Alverson, Senior Director of People at Expedia Group, joins Board of Directors.

Michelle Alverson brings extensive leadership experience in global corporate Human Resources to the board, with over 25 years of expertise. Michelle has a master’s in organizational systems development from Antioch University Seattle and a Bachelor of Arts in human resources from Kent State. Currently serving as the Senior Director of People at Expedia Group, she has played a pivotal role in talent acquisition, retention, performance and development, succession planning, and leadership coaching across various industries and organizational scales. Alverson also brings her wealth of board experience, having served on the board of JDRF Northwest for over six years and chairing the Board of Directors Nomination Committee for three years. Her strengths in strategic thinking, systems thinking, and leadership make her an asset to the organization. 

Brian Clevenger, renowned chef & founder of General Harvest Restaurants, joins Board of Directors.

Brian Clevenger, renowned chef and restaurateur, brings a unique perspective to the board, emphasizing the importance of mentorship in nurturing talent and unlocking potential. Brian received his associate degree in culinary arts and bachelor’s degree in hospitality management from the Art Institute of Seattle. After graduating, Brian continued to cook and train at award-winning restaurants until he opened Vendemmia in 2015. Owner of restaurant group General Harvest Restaurants, Brian brings valuable experience in entrepreneurship and a deep connection to the region. His passion for culinary arts and youth empowerment will enrich the organization’s programs and initiatives.

Mark Ghazai, leader in Artificial Intelligence in the Tech for Social Impact Team at Microsoft, joins Board of Directors.

Mark Ghazai is the Global Managing Director of Azure and Artificial Intelligence AI in Microsoft’s Tech for Social Impact (TSI) team. With over 18 years at Microsoft, Mark is passionate about using technology to drive social impact and make the world a better place. As part of Microsoft TSI and Philanthropies, he is working to accelerate digital transformation and adoption of AI for millions of nonprofits worldwide. Mark has a master’s degree in information systems security from Strayer University and a bachelor’s degree in electrical and power engineering from Sharif University of Technology in Tehran, Iran. Mark also has experience as an educator and a long history of advisory support and volunteerism with global nonprofits. Mark is looking forward to using his experience to help young people achieve their dreams and build their biggest futures.

Corey Rosemond, head of Multiplatform Gaming Partnerships at Google, joins Board of Directors.

Corey Rosemond, a global gaming leader and Director of Multiplatform[AW1]  Gaming Partnerships at Google, holds a bachelor’s degree from Washington University and a master’s in business administration from the University of Texas. An experienced gaming ecosystem growth leader targeting mainstream large-scale experiences, he held a variety of roles leading Roll20’s transformation into a worldwide phenom in the TTRPG space. Corey is currently serving as an Advisory Board member to Roll20, SxSW Gaming, and the Pacific Northwest Chapter of the American Diabetes Association. With his expertise in technology and innovation, Rosemond is committed to leveraging his skills for social good, advancing Big Brothers Big Sisters’ mission in the digital age.

Brent Schlosstein, respected employee benefit leader and founder of Alera Group, joins Board of Directors.

Brent Schlosstein, Founder & Senior Partner at Alera Group, has been a stalwart in the employee benefit consulting space for over 30 years. His visionary leadership led to the creation of Alera Group in 2017, where he continues to drive innovation and excellence in the industry. Schlosstein, who holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Washington, brings extensive knowledge and a deep commitment to community service to the board.

Teacher, Realtor, and Entrepreneur Heather Tabler joins Board of Directors.

Heather Tabler, founder of Tabler Rentals and Tabler Realty Services, brings a unique blend of entrepreneurial spirit and community engagement to the board. With a master’s degree in education policy and leadership and a bachelor’s degree in English and secondary education from the University of Maryland, Heather spent several years as a teacher. Heather is a solution-based thinker with a growth mindset, who grew Walls Property Management from 5 employees to 30 in her 10-year tenure. Her combined experience as a business owner and educator will bring a new viewpoint to the board.

US Air Force Veteran and Organizational Development leader Natalie Zier joins Board of Directors.

With over 15 years of experience in organizational effectiveness, Natalie Zier currently serves as the President of reVISIONorg, an organizational development consultancy guiding high-growth companies through strategic transformations. As the former Chief Operating Officer at Fresh Consulting, she drove significant growth and operational improvements. A Veteran of the USAF, Natalie holds a B.S. in Business Administration from the University of Maryland and has completed advanced programs at Stanford and Northwestern University. A dedicated volunteer, Natalie has a long philanthropy and community engagement history. As both an Alumni Little and Alumni Big, she is thrilled to give back to BBBSPS!

“We are thrilled to welcome Mark, Heather, Corey, Michelle, Brent, Brian, and Natalie to our Board of Directors,” said Alonda Williams, President & CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Puget Sound. “Their diverse backgrounds and unwavering dedication to supporting young people will enhance our ability to serve more children and make a lasting impact in our community.”

Each of these new board members will play a pivotal role in guiding the strategic direction of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Puget Sound, ensuring that every child can reach their full potential with a supportive mentor.