FINDING YOUR VOICE: In Community

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DEBRA SMILEY - CFO and Treasurer

Debra oversees LNW client trusts and estate plans to implement legacies that will have meaningful positive impact on family and community, often over many generations. With change a given as the lives of clients and their beneficiaries evolve, Debra is ready with analysis and insights that reflect a deep level of expertise as well as an understanding of client values and priorities.

To her work, Debra brings more than two decades of experience in trust administration and estate planning. Prior to LNW, Debra was an advisor at predecessor firm Laird Norton Wealth Management. Before that, she worked as trust administrator at the Seattle offices of major U.S. banks — US Bank, BNY Mellon, Union Bank and Harris Private Bank.

JOSEPHINE HOWELL - Board of Directors

Born in Chicago, Illinois, Josephine "Josie" Howell is a singer, actor, dancer, director, minister, and activist whose God-given gift for the arts has inspired audiences for decades. Her journey began in her childhood church choir, where she discovered the power of music to move hearts, inspire hope, and transform lives.

A survivor of homelessness, Josephine is a passionate advocate for social equity, serves with the Emergency Food Bank, and is a member of the Board of First Place School. She has traveled to Africa eight times, helping children discover their voices through music, and continues to share hope through prison ministry across the region.

Josephine's lifelong commitment to service, faith, and the arts reflects the heart of the Lady A's Blues & Blessings Foundation. Her compassion, leadership, and dedication to uplifting others make her an invaluable member of the Foundation's Board of Directors.

DEXTER ALLEN - Board of Directors

Grammy Award-winning producer, vocalist, guitarist, and teaching artist Dexter Allen joins the Lady A's Blues & Blessings Foundation from Jackson, Mississippi. An internationally respected recording and touring artist, Dexter brings decades of experience in music performance, production, education, and mentorship. His passion for inspiring the next generation of musicians and strengthening communities through music aligns with the Foundation's mission of building connection, preserving culture, and creating opportunities through arts education. Dexter's expertise and heart for teaching make him an invaluable member of the LABB Foundation family.

POLLY O'KEARY - Board of Directors

Polly O'Keary is an acclaimed bassist, vocalist, songwriter, touring artist, and teaching artist who has long been one of the most respected voices in Seattle's blues community. Known for her exceptional musicianship and dynamic performances, Polly has earned a reputation as one of the region's premier blues artists.

In 2026, Polly completed her graduate studies in Communications at the University of Washington, further strengthening her passion for education, connection, and community engagement. Whether mentoring emerging artists, inspiring students, or bringing joy to seniors through music, Polly believes in the power of communication and the arts to build stronger communities.

Her creativity, warmth, and commitment to education make her an invaluable member of the Lady A's Blues & Blessings Foundation Board of Directors as the Foundation continues to expand its impact through music, mentorship, and meaningful community partnerships.

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