We’re thrilled to welcome Alicia Crank as Seattle CityClub’s next Executive Director. She comes to us from AtWork in Bellevue, and prior to that, from YWCA of King/Snohomish County. Alicia’s experience is wide-ranging, including six years as an Executive Director and ten years of corporate and foundation donor relations. Follow her on Twitter.
We sat down to get to know Alicia and ask her seven top-of-mind questions below.
1. What does “Dialogue Across Differences” mean to you?
To me, it means having respectful and civil conversations that can sometimes be uncomfortable, but necessary. It’s important to take in various points of view on a topic, even when you feel solid on your position. We all come with different life experiences that inform our opinions. Being willing to listen and consider different aspects of a topic helps us all become more informed.
2. What is the best piece of advice you have ever received?
There are a couple. One is “Own all of your experiences”, meaning to never discount your work and life experiences, as they’ve helped form who you are today. The second is “Own all of your decisions”, meaning no matter what someone may advise you to do, you are the ultimate decision maker. Whatever you decide, you can’t blame someone else if your decision doesn’t work out. Don’t make decisions you’re not willing to take responsibility for.
3. What are you looking forward to as the new Executive Director of Seattle CityClub?
I really want to broaden our audience, topics and engagement. The subjects we cover are not limited to just Seattle, or even just to King County. As a region, we are all striving to work together and connect with one another. I want Seattle CityClub to be known as a place for information gathering from various points of view as well as being one of the premiere platforms for civic engagement and respectful civil discourse.
4. How do you spend your time outside of work?
I love a good scenic road trip, and try to do it a few times a year. I’m also a big fan of action movies and just about anything Marvel. I enjoy attending live theater and sporting events. I am a huge supporter of the Seattle Kraken and the Ambassador Chair for Women’s Pro Hockey Seattle.
5. How do you stay civically engaged?
I’ve always volunteered on various boards and commissions locally and regionally. Currently, I chair both the Edmonds Planning Board and the Snohomish County Airport Commission. I’m also on the board of the Hazel Miller Foundation.
6. Currently reading?
Inclusion on Purpose by local author Ruchika Tulshyan.
7. Beverage of choice at Civic Cocktail?
Vodka anything 🙂