Distinguished Alumna 2026: Kendee Yamaguchi '95

Kendee Yamaguchi '95 - Distinguished Alumna Award 2026

Kendee exemplifies the Sacred Heart Goals and Criteria through leadership rooted in faith, service, intellectual rigor, and community. She has devoted her career to advancing the common good through government, business, and social impact.

A graduate of American University and Seattle University School of Law, Kendee has served in the federal government’s Senior Executive Service, received two Presidential appointments, and led at the highest levels of public service. Most recently, she served as Deputy Assistant Secretary at the U.S. Department of Commerce, overseeing nationwide operations of the U.S. Commercial Service.

Throughout her career, Kendee has led innovative work with lasting impact, including launching Washington State’s first Civil Rights Unit within the Office of the Attorney General, helping create Greater Seattle Partners, and guiding critical public service efforts during the COVID-19 response in Snohomish County.

Today, as Chief Executive Officer of the Asian Counseling and Referral Service, Kendee continues to build community through one of the region’s most impactful nonprofit organizations, serving thousands each year through behavioral health care, youth development, employment services, food security, and culturally responsive support.

Across every stage of her career, Kendee has embodied the Sacred Heart tradition of personal growth lived with wise freedom and responsibility. Her life and leadership remind us that success means the most when it is used in service of others, and that true leadership is measured not only by accomplishment, but by the lives we uplift and the communities we strengthen. Her example is an inspiration to all of us, and especially to the young women we celebrate today. We are proud and grateful to honor her as our 2026 Distinguished Alumna.