Bernadette Hayden graduated from Onalaska High School in 2015 as salutatorian. After high school, she attended Hamline University and majored in legal studies, women’s studies and criminal justice with certifications as a sexual assault counselor, paralegal and in conflict studies. Bernadette has pursued her passion in making the legal system more accessible and equitable through her profession as both a paralegal and as a sexual violence victim advocate. She plans to attend law school in the fall of 2021.

Bernadette helped form the Onalaska Equity Team shortly after the murder of George Floyd. She has worked and volunteered in a variety of non-profit and public organizations that work to reduce racial disparities and wanted to bring this knowledge and experience back to her hometown. Bernadette believes that loving her community involves working to improve it. She believes education and policy changes within Onalaska are critical to ensuring all students are fully prepared for the diverse world once leaving Onalaska and that students of color are always welcomed within our community. Bernadette is grateful for the opportunity to help improve a place she loves and calls home.

Kalika grew up in Onalaska, WA. Her experience in this community has significantly shaped her personal and professional identity. She left town to pursue opportunities for higher education, earned a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology, and is currently pursuing a master's program. She is employed with the USDA, while also dedicating time to volunteer with the OE team. This commitment reflects her ongoing dedication to addressing the needs of the community which has profoundly influenced her life.

Over the past four years, Kalika has developed a robust background in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion within healthcare and educational services. She has used her personal experiences and academic knowledge, alongside a deep passion for DEI, to contribute meaningfully to initiatives that she hopes will make her Onalaska community proud.

Her vision for the team is to help create a safe and inclusive environment in Onalaska for everyone, while also inspiring other small communities to embark on a similar journey toward a vibrant and equitable future. 

Aimee is a dedicated advocate for equity and environmental stewardship. Growing up in Onalaska, she learned the value of resilience and community. After graduating from OHS, Aimee served in the United States Air Force for six years while simultaneously earning her Bachelor of Arts in Social Science from the University of Washington. During her military service, she honed her skills in leadership, strategic planning, and effective communication across diverse teams.

Aimee’s passion for community-building brought her back to her roots, where she serves as a board member at Onalaska Equity, supporting its mission to mentor high school students and promote equity through education and scholarships. Beyond Onalaska, Aimee actively volunteers with climate action organizations in Seattle and enjoys rock climbing and spending time outside. A lifelong learner and advocate for justice, Aimee is preparing to attend law school to focus on environmental and public interest law, striving to create meaningful and sustainable change in the Pacific Northwest and beyond.