Frances J. Youn, a second-year MBA student in the Foster School of Business, has been selected by Gov. Chris Gregoire as the student representative on the University of Washington Board of Regents, effective for one year beginning July 1.
Youn received her B.A. from the UW in 2002, double majoring in sociology and societies and justice. As an undergraduate, she served as Asian Student Commission director for student government, an editorialist for the student newspaper and a participant in the UW's Diversity Council.

Youn has served seven years in the public sector. She developed the supplier diversity program at the Port of Seattle, helping to increase the utilization of minority-, women-owned and small businesses. She also has worked for several elected officials: U.S. Sen. Patty Murray, Washington State Representative and House Majority Whip Sharon Tomiko Santos, and Seattle City Councilmember Richard J. McIver. In 2006 Gov. Gregoire appointed her to the Commission on Asian Pacific American Affairs.

In 2009, she received the Coin of Excellence from the Ft. Lewis U.S. Army garrison commander for her work with returning veterans. Youn is a board fellow for the YWCA of Seattle and a Fritzky Leadership Fellow, working with faculty, staff and peers for leadership and strategic development.