The University of Washington Bothell has named Workforce Snohomish president and CEO Sue Ambler the 2014 Distinguished Alumnus of the Year.
Each year, the university recognizes an alumnus who has exhibited distinguished professional achievements and outstanding community service. Ambler graduated in 1997 with a Master of Education degree from UW Bothell.
Michelle Gamboa chairs the UW Bothell Alumni Council and will present Ambler with the award at the June 15 commencement ceremony. “It is an honor to present this award to Sue,” Gamboa said. “We are grateful for her service to the community and to UW Bothell. She is a strong example and inspiration of what it means to be a UW Bothell graduate.”
Since taking over leadership of Workforce Snohomish in 2006, Ambler has transformed the company into a national model for workforce development. The company has been recognized as one of Seattle Business Magazine’s ‘100 Best Companies to Work For.’
Ambler invests both her personal and professional time to support the creation of a vital local economy. Her passion for serving youth and families has led her to work with elected officials in the state of Washington and in Washington, D.C. Her efforts have contributed to initiatives that help the unemployed, veterans, youth, homeless and many others in need.
Ambler serves on UW Bothell’s School of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics advisory board. She’s also contributed her time and expertise to various other organizations, including the Washington First Robotics Board, the United States Conference of Mayors, Economic Alliance Snohomish County, Washington Workforce Association, and the United Way of Snohomish County Community Campaign where she served as chairperson in 2011.
Ambler is a longtime resident of Bothell where she lives with her husband of 32 years. The Ambler family also includes Blake, his wife Cary, and Lieutenant Junior Grade Ian Ambler who serves in the Civil Engineering Corps United States Navy and is currently stationed in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba.
