“I was part of the AVID program in high school,” Vorn said. “It opened my eyes to what college could mean — not just in terms of income but in what kind of life I could build.”

That drive led her to 56�Թ��� Bothell, where she embraced the challenges of being a first-gen student. “I didn’t want to waste what my parents had given up,” she said. “So, I made the most of every opportunity. I asked for help when I needed it, and I built strong relationships with people who believed in me.”

A mentor and a moment of transformation

One of those relationships changed everything: Professor Deborah Hathaway.

“She was my sunshine,” Vorn said. “Her classes helped me express myself and find confidence — especially in her voice and movement class. It pushed me outside my comfort zone and helped me embrace who I am.”

What started as an academic requirement became a turning point for Vorn. Hathaway’s mentorship helped Vorn build more than just skills — it built a new mindset.

“She taught me that it’s OK to feel uncomfortable,” Vorn said. “That’s often where growth happens.”

From volunteering to a career in science

Vorn’s journey into health and manufacturing began before college. Her first job was at an orthodontist’s office where she had her braces done. What started as a volunteer gig — helping make impressions and putting rubber bands on brackets — became a hands-on introduction to health care.

After college, that early curiosity led her to a role as a Manufacturing Associate at Bristol Myers Squibb, where she now contributes to life-changing treatments on a global scale.

“My background, my culture, and my family — they’re all a part of what motivates me,” she said. “In Cambodian culture, family is everything. And my parents were involved every step of the way in my education.”

Honoring the past, while building the future

At 56�Թ��� Bothell, Vorn learned to bridge her past and future — finding balance between discipline and self-expression, hard work and healing.

“I was taught to be tough and to work hard,” she said. “But college also taught me how to breathe, how to ask for help, and how to grow in ways I hadn’t imagined.”

Now, as a young professional in the biotech industry, she continues to carry those lessons with her — honoring her roots while forging her own path forward.

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Hometown: Seattle, WA

What was your first job?

I was a barista at Starbucks. I met the guy who played Josh (Bradley Whitford) in “The West Wing.” He gave me a $100 tip because it was Christmas!

What springs to mind when you hear the word “impact”?

Healing. There are lots of different threads of healing throughout my life, from my professional career in nursing to my non-professional mountaineering career. Healing has many dimensions. I’ve been lucky to have many opportunities in my life. I encourage people not to be afraid to explore other avenues for healing, whether it’s music, spirituality or something else. Open your heart to love and healing!

What is one of the ways you make an impact on the world?

Each year I go to Lourdes in France and assist with pilgrims there. I help with medical concerns and provide support within the sanctuary, as a member of the L’Association Médicale Internationale de Notre-Dame de Lourdes. This year I will become an official member of the Hospitalité Notre Dame de Lourdes, which was inspired by the Order of Hospitallers of Saint John of Jerusalem. Their job during the Middle Ages was to look after the sick, the poor and pilgrims.

Who has had a big impact on you?

My nursing mentor, Sharon. I think of her professionalism, her competency and her ability to authentically show that you mattered to her.

What motivates you?

My perspective on the world is simple, I like to have fun — that’s important. But I also want the things I do to be impactful, not just for me but for other people. I have a group of kids who are leaving my youth program this year, and I hope they remember me as their mentor and as their coach. I hope that I help influence them to be good human beings — conscientious, responsible and kind.

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Hometown: Kent, WA

What was your first job?

Soccer coach for a Seattle Sounders summer camp.

Why start your own business?

It was the idea of not working a 9-5 my entire life. I want to have fun, I want to travel, and I want to play soccer while not worrying about work!

Why a photo booth?

I wanted to create a business that could expand to different areas and cater to any event. I believed that taking pictures was one thing that everyone does, and it captures memories that last for years.

What has been your favorite event so far?

The very first event we did was for a wedding reception. I didn’t know what I was getting myself into, but the night was super interactive and fun with the host extending our time by an hour. The vibes were immaculate, and since I didn’t expect anything, it was an event to remember.

Do you have any advice for your younger self?

Be adventurous and take risks. Life is all about taking risks to find yourself and to find what you’re best at.

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