By Matilda Sampson
Today marks my 9-year anniversary at Excelsior Wellness. To some, that may not seem like a long time—but I can honestly say I’ve earned every single year through dedication, growth, and lived experience.
My educational journey began in 2000 when I achieved one of my proudest accomplishments: earning my GED. I initially pursued a degree in Professional Secretary studies, but quickly realized it wasn’t my true path. After a thoughtful conversation with my advisor, where I shared that I wanted to help people stay sober, I shifted gears and enrolled in the Alcohol and Drug Counseling program, graduating in 2003.
Soon after, I was encouraged to apply to Whitworth University, where I completed their upside-down degree program and graduated in 2007. I went on to earn my Master of Social Work from Eastern Washington University in 2011.
Over the years, I’ve served in many impactful roles—Alcohol and Drug Counselor for youth and adults, Prevention Specialist, Mental Health Clinician, Indian Child Welfare and Family Services Manager, and facilitator of a culturally adapted, research-informed program for Native communities. Through it all, I’ve gained lifelong mentors, friends, and extended family, each shaping my journey and grounding my purpose.
Professionally, I’ve been a social worker for 25 years—but in truth, I’ve been helping others since 1991.
Currently, I serve as the Community Health Equity & Access Coordinator at Excelsior Wellness. For the past year and a half, I’ve had the opportunity to focus on community and employee engagement. During that time, I had the honor of working alongside Sue Bell, who taught me a lesson I will always carry with me: “Never leave your team behind.” I also want to recognize Demetrius Palmer, who has supported me in all of my work since the day I began working with him. His encouragement has meant so much.
I’ve never stayed at one agency this long. I started at Excelsior as a WISe Care Coordinator, a role I held for 7½ years before retiring from it. I had the unique opportunity to be part of the WISe program from the very beginning, witnessing its growth and adapting through many changes over the years.
Today, I am proud to be involved in several meaningful projects:
- Collaborating with the University of Washington to co-develop a curriculum for coordinators who support individuals with autism and intellectual/developmental disabilities (IDD)
- Serving as a trainer for the WISe Tribal Adaptation Curriculum through Enroute
- Participating on the ECHO/IDD forum, where I advocate for Native and BIPOC families
- Assisting in the development of the Tribal CANS tool with Enroute
- Attending monthly Tribal Leadership meetings to stay connected and informed
- Supporting UW and the American Indian Community Center in planning future training for coordinators using the new Autism/IDD curriculum
Building authentic relationships takes time and care—and I remain committed to this work. I truly love what I do: networking, bringing people together, uplifting others, and supporting my colleagues. I’ve learned to go with the flow and lead with heart.
A special thank you to Suzanne Cardenes, my mentor and steadfast supporter since day one. I deeply love and appreciate her—not only for the incredible work she does, but for who she is as a person.
I don’t punch a time clock, because when someone reaches out—whether it’s after hours or on the weekend—I help however I can. That’s just part of who I am.
Thank you, Excelsior Wellness, for an incredible 9 years. I’m proud of what we’ve built—and even more excited for what’s ahead.