OLYMPIA, WA (2/5/2026) - The Evergreen State College Foundation Board of Governors today announced that it has been selected as a recipient of the 2026 John W. Nason Award for Board Leadership by the Association of Governing Boards of Universities and Colleges (AGB). Presented annually by AGB, the Nason Award, established in 1992, recognizes higher education governing boards that demonstrate exceptional leadership, foresight, and initiative in advancing institutional mission and impact.
Each year, AGB selects Nason Award recipients from a highly competitive and diverse pool of nominations representing four-year public and private colleges and universities, two-year institutions, and institutionally related foundations.
Evergreen was selected for the award in recognition of bold new fundraising and advocacy campaigns designed to help the College elevate its reputation and increase enrollment by 26% in four years. Launching the College’s first major fundraising campaign in 2019—just before the global pandemic and amid significant enrollment and reputational challenges—the Board provided sustained, mission‑driven leadership when it was most needed. Its long‑range strategy expanded fundraising and exceeded the campaign’s $40 million goal, raising $62.5 million. Through this leadership, the Board increased the student‑aid budget by 82%, invested in student basic needs and retention programs, and mobilized alumni and supporters as effective advocates at the state legislature. The Board also prioritized culturally responsive governance, social and racial justice, and board diversification—demonstrating how foundations can propel institutional growth through principled action.
“The Governors have built a culture of strategic, student-centered leadership,” said Abby Kelso, Evergreen’s Vice President for Advancement and Executive Director of the Foundation. “Their commitment to excellence, courage through uncertainty, and advocacy for Evergreen has transformed what is possible for our students. I am inspired by their service and honored to see their work recognized with this national award.”
“This recognition reflects the strength and principled leadership of a board that consistently puts students, access, and innovation first,” echoed Ben Anderson, Chair of the Foundation Board of Governors. “I am deeply proud of this team and the work we’re doing to lead Evergreen forward.”
The Evergreen State College Foundation Board of Governors is one of several governing boards nationwide to receive the 2026 John W. Nason Award for Board Leadership. The full list of 2026 recipients includes:
- Colorado School of Mines Foundation Board of Governors
- The Evergreen State College Foundation Board of Governors
- Fort Lewis College Board of Trustees
- University of Pikeville Board of Trustees
The John W. Nason Award is named in honor of higher education leader John W. Nason, who served as chair of the National Japanese American Student Relocation Council and helped more than 4,000 interned students continue their college studies during World War II. Learn more about AGB’s Nason Award at AGB.org/Award.
AGB is the premier organization advancing excellence in higher education governance.
About AGB
At the Association of Governing Boards of Universities and Colleges (AGB), we believe in the power of higher education to transform lives, strengthen inclusive democracy, and support a thriving society. We believe that strong higher education starts with great governing boards. AGB provides advocacy, leading practices, educational resources, expert support, and renowned programs that advance board excellence for 40,000 AGB members from more than 2,000 institutions and foundations. For more than 100 years, AGB has been the trusted authority for board members, chief executives, board professionals, and key administrators on higher education governance and leadership. Learn more at AGB.org.