Black at Foster
Black at Foster is a student-led organization dedicated to building community, advancing inclusion, and supporting the personal and professional growth of Black MBA students at the Foster School of Business. The club creates intentional spaces for connection, mentorship, and leadership development, while also engaging the broader Foster community in meaningful conversations around diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Through programming, partnerships, and community-building efforts, Black at Foster aims to empower its members, celebrate Black culture, and contribute to a more inclusive and supportive business school environment.
Annual Events
Black & Diversity Panel
Black History Month TG (Thanksgiving-style gathering) in
Diversity Dinner
Additional community, social, and professional development events throughout the year
Sharae Ratliff
CO-PRESIDENT
Full-time Class of 2027
Sharae is proud to serve as President of Black at Foster, continuing a legacy she began during her undergraduate experience as Black at Foster President. Her leadership has consistently focused on creating inclusive spaces, uplifting Black voices, and building strong, supportive communities both on campus and beyond. She is passionate about advancing diversity initiatives and fostering environments where individuals feel seen, valued, and empowered to succeed.
Outside of school, she is a sports enthusiast who enjoys playing soccer and lacrosse. She is also an animal lover and spends much of her free time with her dog and cat, who she absolutely adores.
David Medin
VP of External Engagement
Evening Class of 2027
David is a Territory Sales Manager at Ignite Food Service Solutions, where he works closely with manufacturers, food equipment dealers, and end users to help move projects forward collaboratively. Over the last decade, he has built his career around relationship-building, bridging gaps, fostering trust, and ensuring all stakeholders feel heard. His collaborative approach has helped strengthen and grow long-term partnerships across the industry. After completing his MBA, he hopes to work more closely with manufacturers on strategy and product launches, helping teams stay aligned and bring ideas to market effectively. Outside of work, he is a lifelong Seattle Seahawks fan who enjoys spending time with friends and family, engaging in lively conversations, and continuously learning new things.
Ivette Perez
CO-PRESIDENT
Full-time Class of 2027
Ivette is proud to serve as Co-President of Black at Foster, where she is dedicated to championing the next generation of Black business leaders. With a professional foundation in electrical engineering and a current focus on her MBA at the University of Washington, she brings a blend of technical precision and strategic leadership to the organization. She is deeply committed to building an environment at Foster that prioritizes community, mentorship, and professional excellence, ensuring that every student has the resources and support to thrive.
Outside of her academic and professional roles, Ivette is a creative spirit who finds balance through painting, hiking, being a foodie, and hanging out with friends. Usually fueled by a fresh cup of Café Bustelo, she enjoys the meticulous nature of her art as a way to recharge. She is passionate about building lasting connections and looks forward to fostering a vibrant, supportive community within the Foster program.
Feven Gurmu
VP of Community Engagement
Evening Class of 2027
Feven is an employee benefits consultant with a background in client strategy and healthcare access. Her work centers on helping organizations use data to better understand employee needs, strengthen benefit programs, and make resources more accessible for underserved communities. She is excited to contribute to the MBA Diversity Board by supporting initiatives that foster inclusion and connection across Foster. Outside of school and work, Feven enjoys exploring coffee shops, traveling, health and wellness activities and spending time with her family.
Joanell Leggett
VP of Operations
Full-time Class of 2027
Joanell is a Consortium and Forté Fellow at UW Foster. Prior to moving to Seattle, she lived and worked in Minneapolis and brings over five years of experience in human resources across multiple industries. She is passionate about advancing the coordination and execution of programming that creates intentional spaces where Black MBA students can thrive and build meaningful connections, while supporting their professional growth through mentorship and engagement opportunities. In her free time, she enjoys exploring new food and coffee spots, reading, attending concerts and live theatre, and spending time with her family and two cats.