Meet Arlene Chandra, proud 2010 Skyview graduate and the newest member of the Storm Nation Foundation board of directors.

In Arlene’s own words…from an early age, I embraced leadership, service, and advocacy as core values—principles that have shaped every stage of my journey. In high school, I was deeply engaged in both academic and extracurricular life, holding leadership roles such as President of Natural Helpers, Vice President of the Red Cross Club, and Junior Secretary/Spirit Coordinator via the Associate Student Body. One of my most memorable roles was serving as the school mascot—a position I proudly helped design and acquire the costume for, symbolizing my passion for school spirit, inclusion, and creative initiative.

My commitment to service extended across numerous clubs, including the Key Club, National Honor Society, Gay-Straight Alliance, and Christian Students United, contributing over 25 hours of community service per semester. I also mentored peers, supported younger students, and volunteered weekly with the Boys and Girls Club, earning the President’s Volunteer Service Award for completing over 100 hours of service in a single year. As a student-athlete, I actively participated in bowling and played on the softball team, where I was honored as the "Most Positive Player." Balancing academics with a full slate of extracurricular activities, I maintained a strong academic record and earned a place on the honor roll throughout my high school career. In recognition of my dedication, I received multiple academic, athletic, and character-based awards, including the Skyview High School Principal’s Award, Most Positive Player in softball, and the Storm Pride Award.

These formative experiences instilled in me a deep understanding of community, resilience, and the power of showing up for others—values I have carried with me throughout my educational and professional life.

Now, as a first-generation American and college graduate, I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Sociology from Gonzaga University, followed by a Master of Social Work from the University of Michigan. I am now a Mental Health Professional, a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in both Washington and Oregon, and a nationally certified Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapist. My work focuses on supporting children, youth, adolescents, and families through a trauma-informed, culturally responsive lens.

I continue to expand my scope of care with specialized credentials in ADHD, anxiety, grief, shame, and substance use, and most recently, I became a Certified Professional Practitioner of Animal Assisted Play Therapy®, integrating therapeutic bunny interactions into my practice. In 2021, I founded Arlene’s Angels: Hand in Paw Healing 501(c)(3), a nonprofit dedicated to holistic and compassionate mental health and substance use care.

What began in high school as a commitment to service, leadership, and inclusion has evolved into a life’s calling rooted in healing, empowerment, and equity. Whether in a mascot costume rallying school spirit or in a therapy room walking alongside clients in their healing journey, my mission remains the same: to create spaces where people feel seen, supported, and safe to grow.

Arlene Angeline Chandra, MSW, MHP, LICSW, LCSW, SUDPt, CPP-AAPTs

Master of Science in Nonprofit Management, 2022

Master of Social Work, 2016

Bachelor of Psychology & Sociology, 2014