JILLIAN HOLBROOK
Leading with Excellence, Resilience, Integrity, Ambition, and Empathy.
Leading with Excellence, Resilience, Integrity, Ambition, and Empathy.
Welcome to my leadership portfolio. My name is Jillian Holbrook, and I am graduating with College Honors and a double degree in neuroscience and psychology from the University of Washington.
Leveraging my ambition and interdisciplinary problem-solving, I am proud to enhance neuropsychiatric memory care, conduct clinical psychology research, increase neuroscience accessibility, advocate culturally competent diversity, equity, and inclusion, and serve as a student handler for the University of Washington's live mascot, Dubs II. These combined endeavors have developed my empathy, tenacity, and commitment to excellence as a future physician-researcher—where I aspire to effectuate long-term community impact by improving preventative health and treatment interventions.
LEADERSHIP IDENTITIES
Community Neuroanatomy Demonstration (The University of Washington, Seattle, Washington)
In my positions as a lead honors undergraduate researcher in the Sibley Lab and as the Brain Exercise Initiative Co-President, I am dedicated to advancing translational medicine approaches for neuropsychiatric care. Through clinical psychology research on behavioral disorders and developing cognitive flexibility resources that promote memory care to combat neurodegenerative decline, I apply innovation of treatment interventions, human-centered empathy, and my desire to help others access care that improves their quality of life.
These distinct yet interconnected patient populations allow me to integrate my knowledge of the brain and behavior across the lifespan with my commitment to holistically caring for others—recognizing an individual's multifaceted identity rather than reducing them to clinical labels. Ultimately, my leadership as a Neuropsychiatric Care Innovator is driven by a vision of care that is proactive, inclusive, and deeply attuned to the human experience. I aspire to push the boundaries of existing treatment models, fostering a future where neuropsychiatric care is scientifically rigorous yet compassionate, individualized, and transformative.
Top: Honors Sweden and Finland: Art and Activism in the Nordic Region (Kungliga Slottet: The Stockholm Royal Palace); Bottom: Pride Parade 2024 (Stockholm, Sweden)
As a student in both the interdisciplinary and departmental honors programs, I embrace a global perspective, applying integrative learning and personal reflection to derive meaning from my experiences. My leadership is rooted in a commitment to intellectual curiosity and cultural engagement, allowing me to critically analyze complex societal issues and explore innovative solutions.
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Beyond deepening my expertise in neuroscience and psychology, I actively seek out interdisciplinary coursework—such as Storytelling in the Sciences, Global Food Systems, Murder, and Human Trafficking in an Era of Globalization—to expand my understanding of the intersections between science, ethics, and human rights. Through these courses, I engage with diverse narratives and methodologies that challenge conventional thinking, fostering a multidimensional approach to problem-solving and teamwork.
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My global scholarship extends beyond the classroom. Studying abroad has been instrumental in cultivating cultural competence and enhancing my ability to navigate intersectional perspectives as a student, leader, and researcher. Immersing myself in my Scandinavian heritage while studying Art and Activism in the Nordic Region allowed me to reflect on identity, history, and advocacy in a cross-cultural context. These experiences not only strengthen my personal connections to global communities but also reinforce my responsibility to approach knowledge as a global citizen with humility—recognizing the privilege and positionality that shape my worldview.
Innovative Programs Research Presenter for the Sibley Lab (International ADHD Research Conference 2024: Anaheim, California)
From my early leadership experiences of developing the first free international neuroscience curriculum, expanding engagement with neuroethics, and educating on sustainable agriculture and climate justice, I built a leadership identity that prioritizes breaking down barriers to knowledge and opportunity. My commitment to equity, servant leadership, and integrity continue to shape my work as a leader today.
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​Recognizing the impact of effective science communication, I work to bridge gaps in understanding across the professional, academic, and public spheres—translating esoteric concepts into accessible information. My clinical psychology research on behavioral disorder interventions is guided by a commitment to information transparency and equal considerations for evidenced-based efficacy and care accessibility.
In my role as a TAPD-INTO STEM Scholar, I extend my advocacy of equity, accessibility, and inclusion to disability justice by mentoring students in STEM disciplines with disability identities. Leveraging my experience with chronic pain, I guide mentees through societal and institutional accessibility barriers, providing both practical strategies and emotional support tailored to each individual's needs.
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To create lasting impact, equity and inclusion must be tangible—enacted through intentional leadership, advocacy, and community engagement. I amplify underrepresented voices and draw on my own lived experience to promote evolved practices of science, education, and healthcare that serve individuals of every intersectional background equitably.
Whether I am working in my role as a student handler for Dubs II or fostering team building in my lab and student leadership organization positions, I facilitate safe, empowered community spaces and joyful interpersonal experiences. I am passionate about helping others, forming connections, and promoting long-term well-being. By leading with purpose, empathy, and a commitment to equity, I aim to enact change and unify others with similar passions in creating a better, more connected, and more just world.
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At the heart of my leadership is a quiet but powerful force: the conviction that true success lies not in personal gain but in the collective well-being of my communities. I am deeply attuned to the needs of those around me, striving to create meaningful relationships that transcend surface-level interactions. I prioritize integrity and conscientious decision-making, knowing that even small acts of compassion, kindness, and understanding have profound impacts in bringing people together.
Husky Football Gameday Appearance (Husky Stadium: Seattle, Washington)