Plymouth’s leadership team is dedicated to transforming the lives of those experiencing homelessness with innovative and supportive strategies.

Executive Team

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.  

Andrea Carnes joined Plymouth in 2012.  Andrea’s experience includes over 25 years in supportive and affordable housing at Plymouth, the YMCA of Greater Seattle, and Bellwether Housing. Previously, she provided countywide leadership to create housing options for high-risk young adults exiting the foster care system and spoke nationally on best practices for supportive housing for these individuals. In addition, Andrea has served on the board of the South Lake Union Community Council and Downtown Seattle Association’s Metropolitan Improvement District Advisory Board. She graduated from Seattle Pacific University with a BS in sociology.

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.

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 the Senior Director of Health Equity, Research, and Policy Development, Taurmini (she/her) works collaboratively with colleagues and external partners to develop and evaluate innovative interventions to support the wellbeing of Plymouth residents, staff, and greater community. Responsible for ensuring that the Behavioral Health Dept aligns with best practices, Taurmini brings experience and expertise in clinical leadership, research, policy development, and program evaluation to her role.

Prior to joining Plymouth Housing, Taurmini led the Behavioral Health Dept at Neighborcare Health. Supported by public and private funding, she piloted multiple successful clinical interventions and ensured that new roles created career pathways for peers and current staff.  As a NIH funded researcher, she has published papers on healing, homelessness, stigma, harm reduction, the impacts of systemic oppression, and other topics related to equity and wellbeing.

Taurmini’s doctoral studies at the University of Washington focused on how our environment and community potentiate resilience and wellbeing. She holds a Master of Social Work; Master of Public Policy; Graduate certificate in Public Health; and is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Supervisor.

Outside of work, Taurmini is often found meandering with her child – trying to get their dogs, Onyx and Nyla, to listen for once.

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 a Senior Director of Permanent Supportive Housing, 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.

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.

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.

As far back as he can remember, David has felt a spirit to be of service to his community. Following that spirit led him to Plymouth, where he serves as a Senior Director of Permanent Supportive Housing, guiding the people and processes that support Plymouth residents.

David came to Plymouth after serving four years at Catholic Community Services, where he led the South King County shelter programs. Six years later, he has served in three positions in both Property Management and Social Services, providing all kinds of support to residents and staff.

He has made it his life’s goal to support building lasting relationships with residents and staff, instilling gratitude and appreciation along the way. He hopes to continue serving the greater Seattle community by partnering with outside resources that support ending homeless, addressing addiction, and building equitable lives for all.

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.

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.

Board of Trustees: Officers

Ben Straughan, Chair, Perkins Coie

Mark Barbieri, Vice Chair, Washington Holdings

Nelly Mubashi, Treasurer, Northwest Asset Management

Karen Chang, Secretary, Target

Lainey Sickinger, Immediate Past ChairCommunity Volunteer

Board of Trustees

Laura Bachman, The Bachman Group, LLC

Sean Brennan, Heritage Bank NW

Matthew Cazier, Harborview Medical Center

David Chen, Resident Representative

Andrew DeVore, Amazon

Olivia Doyle, Washington Federal Bank

Mary Ives, Community Volunteer

Ben Maritz, Grtexp.co

Julia Meo, Zillow

Sarah Meyer, Kaphan Foundation

Chuck Riley, Lane Powell

Lavina Sadhwani, Seneca Group

Mike Schlect, Deloitte

Kayley Runstad Swan, Hamlin Robinson School Learning Center

Satish Thomas, Microsoft

Deb White, Resident Representative

Advisory Council

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