James Layman, AWSL Director

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James Layman joined the Association of Washington Student Leaders (AWSL) staff in the summer of 2017 and currently serves as its Director. His journey with AWSL began in 1998 as a student participant, attending multiple AWSL-sponsored middle-level programs and Mt. Baker Leadership Camp before returning to serve as a Junior Counselor at Mt. Triumph Leadership Camp.

Over the years, James has continued to give back through AWSL's summer leadership programs, serving as a Senior Counselor at both Mt. Triumph and Chewelah Peak Leadership Camps. Today, he serves as the Director of Mission Peak Leadership Camp, helping create transformative leadership experiences for high school students from across Washington.

A graduate of Central Valley High School, James attended Eastern Washington University, where he studied Music Education, Psychology, and African American History. Before joining the AWSL team, he taught band and marching band throughout the Spokane area. James also serves on the Board of Directors for the National Association for Student Activities (NA4SA), supporting student leadership initiatives at the national level.

Through AWSL, James is a sought-after keynote speaker, curriculum writer, and program facilitator throughout Washington State and beyond. James has been a presenter at the Washington Activity Coordinators Association National Conference for Student Activities, the NA4SA National Conference, AWSP/WASA Conference, the NatStuCo National Conference, and the NatStuCo Lead Conferences. James lives and works out of Spokane, WA.

Responsibilities:

• Directs AWSL.

• Oversees and directs student voice initiatives and programs.

• AWSL professional learning, curriculum writing, program facilitator, workshop facilitator, and keynote speaker.

• Coordinates and collaborates with AWSP Directors and the Cispus Learning Center Director.

Travis Ruhter, AWSL Associate Director (Education & Engagement)

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Travis Ruhter joined the AWSL staff in July 2023 as the Associate Director of the Association of Washington Student Leaders (AWSL). He has worked with students for over twenty-seven years in a variety of roles, including Spanish teacher, AVID elective teacher,  ASB adviser, leadership teacher, youth pastor, international student exchange coordinator, and drama director. 

Travis’ involvement with AWSL began in the summer of 2000, when he was recruited by Sandy Stonebreaker to serve as a senior counselor at Mt. Baker Leadership Camp. After three summers working at Mt. Baker, he collaborated with Greg Barker and Leanne Donley to create Mt. Triumph Leadership Camp and served as the Junior Counselor Coordinator for eighteen summers. Travis has also served as one of the Tri-Directors for La Cima Bilingual Leadership Camp and as the Junior Counselor Coordinator for Western Leaders Summit. In October 2016, he cosponsored the Fall Conference at Mark Morris High School along with RA Long, Wahkiakum, and Kalama High Schools.

Travis is a first-generation college student and has attended Idaho State University, Convergence Bible School, Concordia University, and the University of Washington Tacoma. He now holds three degrees and two certificates: BA in History/Political Science; BA in Secondary Education/Spanish; Certificate in Biblical Studies/Church Leadership; MA in Curriculum and Instruction/Teacher Leadership; and Certificate in Educational Administration. He is also a National Board Certified Teacher in Spanish.

Travis firmly believes that anyone can choose to lead and that the importance of student voice to shape education and communities. Travis enjoys time with his family, especially his five grandchildren. Coffee, travel, and rhythmic cycling are his favorite ways to recharge and connect with others. Travis lives in Longview, WA.

Responsibilities:

• Support in AWSL program expansion, development, facilitation, and implementation.

• Directs and oversees AWSL Next Gen and AWSL Accredited Programs through the WSPEF Principal Learning Center.

• Collaborates with the Managing Director of the Washington School Principals Education Foundation, AWSL Director, AWSL Operations Director, AWSL and Cispus Learning Center Staff, AWSP Staff, and key external education partnerships.

• Serves and supports Western Washington.

Cortney Suderman, AWSL Fiscal Coordinator

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Cortney joined the Foundation in September 2021 to coordinate funding and projects for Outdoor Schools Washington. She brings more than 15 years of experience in finance, strategic planning, and project management, with a passion for creating systems and partnerships that support students, educators, and schools across Washington State.

Cortney and her husband, who serves as principal of their local high school, live in Tumwater with their two boys. An avid skier and outdoor enthusiast, she enjoys spending time in the mountains, exploring with her family, and taking advantage of the recreational opportunities the Pacific Northwest offers.

Responsibilities:

• Accounts Receivable and Bookkeeping for AWSL.

• Registrar for AWSL Programs and Events.

• Coordinating Outdoor Schools Washington funding and statewide initiatives.

• Project management for Foundation and AWSP programs and initiatives

• Supporting AWSL student programs, including Reimagining Recess, Leadership Days, and the Washington LEADS Network

• Managing grants, stakeholder engagement, and program operations

Dianne Sympson, WSPEF/AWSL Administrative Assistant

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Dianne Sympson joined the AWSL/WSPEF Team in November of 2022. Dianne's passion for organization, attention to detail, and exceptional interpersonal skills made her an invaluable asset to the WSPEF team. Dianne's ability to multitask and adapt to the dynamic demands of her role earned her the respect and admiration of her colleagues.

Dianne has worked as a personal assistant and care provider, is a certified fitness instructor (REFIT, Athletic Fitness Association of America, Fun2Be Fit Program), and as a physical education educator. Dianne loves serving her community by lending her efforts and talents to the Randle Fire Department, Morton Area Homeschool PE, and the Onstage Children's Theater Program in Morton.

In addition to her professional achievements, Dianne is a devoted mother who exemplifies the importance of work-life balance. Her dedication to her family and career is a cornerstone of who she is. Her exceptional organizational skills, dedication, and passion for empowering the next generation of leaders make her an invaluable WSPEF/AWSL team member.

Responsibilities:

• AWSL Member & Communication Support

• Data and Record Keeping for the WSPEF Team

• Program Support and Coordination