Plymouth’s leadership team is dedicated to transforming the lives of those experiencing homelessness with innovative and supportive strategies.
After a national search led by members of the board, staff, civic leaders, and community members, Karen Lee joined Plymouth Housing as Chief Executive Officer in 2022. Karen has previously served as the CEO of Pioneer Human Services, and a cabinet member and agency director under Governor Christine Gregoire. She also served four years including an overseas tour in the U.S. Army, as the Director of Gas Operations at Puget Sound Energy, and early in her law career, she worked at K&L Gates.
Karen is an active member in our community. She is currently a member of the Virginia Mason Franciscan Health and University of Washington Foundation boards, and she is a Corporate Director at the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco, Northwest Natural Holdings, and Lease Crutcher Lewis. Her list of accomplishments is long and what is constant throughout her distinguished career is her commitment to serving others and making it possible for everyone to lead a life of dignity.
John Siddall is Plymouth Housing’s Chief Financial Officer, overseeing finance, accounting, accounts payable and receivables, budgeting, and payroll. John brings over 20 years of experience in finance including strategy, budget development and management, cost control, process enhancement, operations streamlining, and workforce/resource planning. Skilled at process evaluation for enhanced productivity, John has been certified as a Project Management Professional and is a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives. He volunteers on the Board for Pacific Medical Centers and at Tacoma Rescue Mission. He holds an MBA from George Washington University and an MPA from the University of Washington, and graduated cum laude with a BBA from George Washington University. John likes to spend his free time with his family, traveling, and reading as many books as he can on varied topics.
Kimberly Arrington White joined Plymouth Housing in August of 2021 and brings nearly three decades of work in the social services field. Prior to coming to Plymouth Housing, she served as Chief of Case Management for one of California’s twenty-one regional centers providing services to more than 18,000 developmentally disabled individuals. She previously served as a Program Coordinator at Goodwill Industries and has worked with individuals with both behavioral and emotional health challenges. Ms. Arrington White holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a Master’s degree in Educational Administration, Organization and Policy.
Huynh is responsible for creating the vision, financing, implementation, and continuous quality improvement of behavioral health services and related health initiatives for residents living in Plymouth’s housing portfolio. Working closely with organizational leaders, Huynh works to offer comprehensive and accessible on-site clinical services to Plymouth residents by leveraging external partners and industry experts to design and implement preventative services, crisis intervention, intensive and outpatient levels of behavioral health care, medication management, and stay-based functional support for aging well.
Huynh brings over 12 years of experience as a provider and leader across the continuum of care, with a focus in program management and strategic partnership development. As a clinician and member of the mobile crisis team at DESC, Huynh responded to behavioral health crisis calls with first responders to divert people from unnecessary Emergency Department and jail visits. After leaving DESC, she moved on to Evergreen Healthcare, working on across medical units and the Emergency Department, as well as Swedish Edmonds, floating between the inpatient social worker role on the behavioral health unit, a group clinician in the partial program, and an intake coordinator. Prior to joining Plymouth, she was the Director of Operations for Swedish Behavioral Health Institute, building the intensive outpatient and interventional psychiatry service line to connect the acute care and integrated behavioral health services in the primary care and specialty clinics.
Huynh received a Master’s in Social Work from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor and a Bachelor of Science in neurobiology from the University of Washington. She has a LICSW in Washington State. Outside of work, she loves trying new restaurants, working out at Pure Barre and Rowdy Box, and spending time with her beagle Lucy Blue.
Mieko Gray joined Plymouth Housing as Vice President of Human Resources in 2023. Mieko has a breadth of nonprofit experience and over 10 years in Human Resources leadership roles. She holds an MBA and a bachelor’s degrees in business and human resources.
Kurt Jun is Plymouth Housing’s Vice President of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB), leading strategic efforts to create an inclusive and supportive environment for staff and residents. He oversees the DEIB Department, integrating principles he defines as “embracing the inherent value of every person” into all facets of Plymouth Housing. He brings over 30 years of experience in DEIB, including roles as a civil rights officer and global consultant in both private and public sectors. His expertise includes strategy development, program implementation, and community engagement. He has successfully led numerous initiatives to enhance inclusivity and belonging in previous roles. Kurt holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Seattle Pacific University and has received numerous recognitions and awards for his work in DEIB practices. He is actively involved at his local Union Gospel Mission as a mentor and sponsor, supporting men recovering from hurts and addictions. Kurt is a global traveler who enjoys building friendships by learning new cultures and worldviews. He considers books his ‘good friends’ and cherishes quality time spent with family.
Jeremy has been with Plymouth Housing for 13 years and has held seven different positions during that time, and now serves as the VP of Property Management. By utilizing data, input from staff and tenants, an awareness of leading industry practices, and a strong mindset for creative problem solving, Jeremy oversees safety in Plymouth’s buildings, grant management, and the development of quality programs and services.
Prior to moving to Seattle, Jeremy was a Psychosocial Rehabilitation Specialist working with children with behavioral disorders in southern Idaho. He has a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Northwest Nazarene University, studied Mandarin in Taipei, Taiwan at NTNU, and is a graduate of the Housing Development Consortium’s Leadership Development Program.
Jeremy loves running outdoors, is active in his church, and will happily engage with anyone in friendly competition that requires hand eye coordination i.e., ping pong, cornhole, bowling, you name it.
As VP of Real Estate with Plymouth Housing, Karen is responsible for overseeing Plymouth Housing’s real estate development activities, including new construction and rehabilitation. Prior to joining Plymouth Housing, Karen has held positions in a variety of roles in development and affordable housing including working for the Minneapolis Community Planning and Economic Development Agency, the Minneapolis-based developer, Sherman Associates, Minnesota Housing and Tacoma Housing Authority. Karen received a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy from Metropolitan State University. Outside of work, Karen is typically at the barn riding and showing her horse, Marley. Some of Karen’s other interests include reading, gardening, making stained glass art, traveling, attending concerts and theatre and time with her family.
Becky Rusnak joined Plymouth Housing as Vice President of Administration in 2023. In this capacity, she oversees IT, PMO, Data Analytics and Administrative Services. Her experience includes over 30 years of leadership in nonprofits, government, and for-profit companies. Becky most recently served as the Head of Programs for Amazon, where she led teams for project management, employee and customer experience, and operations. Her prior work includes leadership positions in operations with the University of Washington and Family Services of Houston. She holds an MBA with a focus on organizational behavior and a bachelor’s degree in finance. Becky is an avid sports fan and loves traveling, cooking, and especially hanging out with her son.
Shoko has been with Plymouth Housing since 2013. Prior to joining Plymouth, Shoko worked in philanthropy positions at a number of Seattle-area nonprofits, including the YWCA Seattle King Snohomish and Refugee Women’s Alliance (ReWA). Shoko is a graduate of Leadership Tomorrow’s Class of 2018. She also serves on the board of Zeno Math Powered. Shoko received her BA in business with an emphasis in Finance/Accounting from Western Washington University.
Leadership
George has been in the security/safety industry for over 40 years. He has an extensive background in law enforcement, security leadership, and working for non-profits. He is passionate and committed to Public Safety and has dedicated his entire career to keeping people safe. He is looking forward to the development and growth of the Safety Department.
George started his career in 1984 as a Campus Police Officer at his alma mater, Kent State University. He then went to the U.S. Marshals Service where he worked as a Deputy; Inspector; and Supervisory Deputy throughout his career. Additionally, George spent two years on loan to the FBI working on a Safe streets Violent Crimes Taskforce. George has worked at Planned Parenthood as the Director of Security and Safety in Los Angeles and Seattle. In Seattle, George worked for the largest Planned Parenthood in the country, overseeing 45 health centers across six states.
When not working, George enjoys the opera, jazz music, dance, theatre, and the arts. He is an avid jogger and has completed over five marathons and a number of shorter distance races.
Lisa has worked with Plymouth Housing for over 17 years and has held four different positions within the Finance Department, which she now oversees as Controller. Plymouth’s talented Finance team is responsible for maintaining, managing, and analyzing financial statements including account payable, account receivable, payroll, and audit. This team oversees the accounting for donations, grants, payee services, and residential and commercial property management activities.
Lisa spent over four years at Washington State University and University of Washington with a concentration in accounting, business, and social work. She has over 25 years of experience in accounting, mostly in the nonprofit sector. Prior to joining Plymouth, she was with Pioneer Human Services.
Outside of work, Lisa enjoys camping or spending time with friends and family.
Cheryl DeBoise rejoined Plymouth in March 2023, bringing 30 years of financial leadership primarily in nonprofit organizations. Her most recent roles include over five years as the Chief Operating Officer for Bellwether Housing and over five years in financial leadership roles at the University of Washington. Cheryl is a graduate of the University of Washington, with a degree in business administration with an accounting emphasis. She enjoys hiking, kayaking, sailing and music. You’ll find her at many of our local outdoor concert venues throughout the summer months.
Lisa Downs joined Plymouth Housing as the Learning and Development Director in October 2023. In this capacity, she leads the Learning and Development team and function, responsible for all employee training, professional, and career development programs. Her experience includes over 20 years of working in nonprofit, professional services, and for-profit companies. Lisa most recently served as a Senior Leadership Development Business Partner for Amazon, where she supported leaders to get the leadership development training and coaching they needed. Prior work includes running her own learning consulting business and serving on learning teams at EMC, Boeing, and PEMCO Insurance. She holds a Master of Science in Education degree and numerous certifications in adult learning, coaching, and human resources. Lisa is an avid sports fan and loves traveling, cooking, and spending time in the great outdoors with her husband Chris.
As Director of Communications, Gabrielle brings an antiracist lens and a passion for storytelling to Plymouth Housing. Through public relations, marketing, and other communications strategies, Gabrielle illuminates the impact of Plymouth Housing in the community, and why people should support and get involved with the organization. Most recently, Gabrielle made an impact in professional roles with Seattle Theatre Group, Seattle Opera, UW School of Drama, and as a community leader and volunteer with the Japanese American Citizens League. Gabrielle graduated from Western Washington University with degrees in Dance and Journalism in 2010 and was named a Distinguished Alumni of the school in 2022. Outside of Plymouth, Gabrielle is an award-winning Asian American dance artist and a proud parent.
As Clinical Director, Kristina is responsible for leading programs and services that support residents at Plymouth Housing. Kristina ensures Housing Case Managers are supported and have what they need to deliver trauma-informed, quality services to all residents in Plymouth’s portfolio. Kristina has worked for Plymouth for the past decade and her experience in various levels of supportive housing informs her goals to support case management staff. During that time, Kristina also received her Master of Social Work with an emphasis in Mental Health from University of Washington. Kristina received her bachelor’s degrees in psychology and sociology from Gonzaga University. When not at work you can find Kristina cheering for Gonzaga basketball (Go Zags!), reading, and going on walks around Seward Park with her family.
Mary joins Plymouth Housing as Senior Director of Permanent Supportive Housing, bringing more than 15 years’ experience in homeless and housing services to the PSH team. Mary has dedicated her career to helping people facing homelessness and housing insecurity in the Phoenix metropolitan area, and relocated to the Seattle area to continue this important work. She has held various leadership roles overseeing case management, emergency shelter, permanent supportive housing, rapid re-housing, and day center programs for families, most recently serveing as Chief Program Officer at Arizona Housing Inc, a Phoenix-based housing nonprofit. She is passionate about creating positive change and advocating for social justice and attainable housing for all.
Mary holds bachelor’s degrees in Psychology and Sociology from Northern Arizona University and a Master’s Degree in Social Work from Arizona State University. She is also a graduate of the American Express Leadership Academy and holds a Nonprofit Executive Leadership certificate from the ASU Lodestar Center for Philanthropy and Nonprofit Innovation.
Outside of work, Mary enjoys reading, painting, and adventures with her family.
Kendall Guthrie joined Plymouth Housing as the Senior Director of Change Management in 2024. This new position supports teams across the organization with continuous improvement efforts. Kendall brings a wide range of skills in strategic planning, measurement, evaluation, and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). She brings a passion for helping social sector organizations navigate change and develop a culture of learning, strategic thinking, adaptability, and belonging.
Throughout her career, Kendall has worked with organizations of all sizes across many issue areas, from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to small community-based nonprofits. She holds a PhD from the Annenberg School of Communications at the University of Southern California and is a Certified Co-Active Professional Coach (CPCC). In 2023, Kendall served as a Peace Corps Response Volunteer in rural Botswana, where she cultivated skills among rural community development officers and indigenous craftspeople.
Elliot began his career with Plymouth in 2009 and has worked in Property Management, Compliance, and the Rental Office. Most recently he served as the Rental Office Manager for seven years, overseeing the lease-ups of Sylvia Odom’s Place, Plymouth on First Hill, Bob and Marcia Almquist Place, Kristin Benson Place, Bertha Pitts Campbell Place, and Toft Terrace. In his current role Elliot oversees the operations of Plymouth’s Rental Office and Compliance Departments, working to balance Plymouth’s high standards for compliance with Plymouth’s mission to lower barriers of housing access for people who are homeless and disabled. Elliot holds an MS in art education and enjoys the arts, spending time with family, the outdoors, cycling, and riding on the Washington State Ferries.
Elizabeth (Liz) Ibarra is a seasoned Human Resources Director with a proven track record in employee relations, HR operations, and organizational development. With over 20 years of experience in the field, Liz has led HR teams in the USA and global companies, developing effective employee engagement strategies and fostering a positive work culture. She holds a Master’s in Business Administration from Chapman University and is certified as a Professional in Human Resources Management through LMU Los Angeles. Liz is a frequent speaker at Community Colleges and Universities and is passionate about promoting diversity and inclusion in the workplace. Outside of work, she enjoys fitness, outdoors activities, cooking, and spending time with family and friends.
Kevin has worked with the Shelter Plus Care (SPC) and Scattered Sites (SSP) programs for an accumulative five years before overseeing both programs. As the Director of Vouchers, he supervises these two programs that provide housing subsidy for 800 previously unhoused participants living in the community. He has worked with the unhoused community for seven years in Seattle as a case manager, permanent supportive housing supervisor, and the Scattered Sites Program Manager. Kevin earned his Master of Social Work degree in 2021 at the University of Washington. Outside of work, he enjoys reading fantasy/science fiction, philosophy, and Russian literature, playing board games, and spending time with friends and family.
Tim serves as the Director of Information Technology at Plymouth Housing, managing all employees technology needs. Tim is responsible for setting the strategic direction for future technology at Plymouth, while assuring systems stay available and secure on a daily basis. He brings 30 years of experience in technology, starting as a COBOL programmer and moving to Service Desk and Technology Management at NBBJ Architecture for 19 years. His most recent role was the Director of IT and Chief Security Officer for Kitsap Credit Union for eight years.
Tim has a bachelor’s degree in Political Science and Economics from the University of Washington (Go Dawgs) and holds a certification in ITIL, IT Process and Improvement, as well as Certification as an Information Security Manager, CISM. In his free time he volunteers with the Edmonds Arts Festival and Foundation, bringing arts, grants and scholarships to the local community and school district, while also serving as a volunteer soccer coach for the past 25 years.
Craig has joined Plymouth recently as the Director of Asset Management, primarily responsible for investor relations & reporting, capital projects for Plymouth properties, and commercial space management. Craig comes to Plymouth with over 25 years of experience in Affordable Housing with focus on asset management and development. He has spent the last eleven years working for a Community Action Agency in Central Washington primarily acquiring and developing Affordable Housing. He is a Seattle native and a graduate of Western Washington University. In his spare time as a former rugby player he now dedicates time to coaching a development side for a local club.
Katharine Revello is Senior Director of Quality Assurance and supports teams across multiple Plymouth Housing properties. Prior to coming to Plymouth in 2013 as a Building Manager, she spent time at the Seattle/King County Coalition on Homelessness and held multiple direct-service positions at Catholic Housing Services. Katharine attended the University of Washington School of Social Work, earning both a bachelor’s degree in social welfare and a master’s degree in social work. Outside of work, Katharine enjoys spending time with her family, especially in the great outdoors!
As the Director of Development, Gretchen is responsible for developing and executing a comprehensive fund development plan for Plymouth Housing. Gretchen works with the Resource Development team to contribute to overall fundraising revenue through special events, corporate fundraising, and individual giving. Prior to joining Plymouth Housing, Gretchen has worked in direct service and fundraising roles for education-focused organizations. Gretchen received her Bachelor of Arts in Art History, English, and Women’s and Gender Studies from the College of Charleston. Outside of work, she is typically reading, enjoying the outdoors, or spending time with friends.
Keith has over 20 years of experience in construction and facilities work, in addition to being in leadership roles since 1999. Keith’s skills range from technical expertise to community building and team development, and he has put those to use at Plymouth since he was hired as Maintenance Manager in 2015. Prior to that, he worked for Compass Housing Alliance, the Simon Estate, and S.S. Construction.
As the Director of Strategic Initiatives and Government Relations with Plymouth Housing, Dennis builds collaborative community partnerships and acts as a liaison with various groups, coalitions, institutions, and government agencies working to end homelessness. He works to support community processes and policymaking related to affordable housing. Dennis researches, pursues, and organizes public funding sources and other program resources to support Plymouth’s work. Prior to joining Plymouth Housing, Dennis served more than 12 years in the U.S. House of Representatives in roles including District Director and Legislative Director. Before serving in Congress, Dennis worked for three years at a private sector industrial supply and logistics company in business management and operations supervision. Dennis earned a Master of Business Administration from the University of Maryland, College Park, and a Bachelor of Arts in Public Policy from Duke University. Outside of work, he spends time outdoors, traveling, and with family.
Trina has worked in the supportive housing field for over 14 years, and with people experiencing homelessness for even longer. She joined Plymouth in 2014 as the Assistant Director of Property Management. Prior to her time with Plymouth, she served as the Director of Operations for the Church Council of Greater Seattle, where she oversaw the HomeStep and Self-Managed Housing Programs in addition to securing and maintaining government grants, building community partnerships, and working directly with program staff and residents.
Ben Straughan, Chair, Perkins Coie
Mark Barbieri, Vice Chair, Washington Holdings
Nelly Mubashi, Treasurer, Northwest Asset Management
Karen Chang, Secretary, Target
Lainey Templeton, Immediate Past Chair, Community Volunteer
Laura Bachman, The Bachman Group, LLC
Sean Brennan, Community Volunteer
Matthew Cazier, Harborview Medical Center
David Chen, Resident Representative
Andrew DeVore, Amazon
Olivia Doyle, WaFd Bank
Matt Galvin, Pagliacci Pizza
Mary Ives, Community Volunteer
Shari Leid, An Imperfectly Perfect Life, LLC
Ben Maritz, Great Expectations
Julia Meo, Zillow
Sarah Meyer, Kaphan Foundation
Chuck Riley, Lane Powell
Mike Schlect, Deloitte
Mari Smith, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation
Kayley Runstad Swan, Hamlin Robinson School Learning Center
Satish Thomas, Microsoft
Deb White, Resident Representative
Ben Straughan, Chair
Deirdre Black
Dan Brettler
Angus Cunningham
Phil Fujii
Gail Conway Gray
Kate Joncas
Stewart Landefeld
Eleanor Moseley Pollnow
Brian Olsavsky
Molly Pengra
Mari Smith
Joyce Taylor
Gillian Neukom Toledo
Jane Zalutsky