Michael Hong: Hi Cohort C! It’s been way too long since I’ve shared an update with the group. After semi-officially “retiring” from the corporate world, I’ve spent the last 12 years based in Korea, focusing on angel investing and mentoring the next generation of startups. My latest project has been especially exciting: I’m working with an AI-centric VFX specialist here in Seoul. We’ve been collaborating with some of Korea’s top cinema and drama producers, and we’re about to ink a strategic partnership with a major K-pop entertainment company (founded by one of the legendary groups!). I’ve been heading up their overseas expansion, which actually gave me the chance to reconnect with Rob Cain this past September after all these years—it was great to catch up. I still find myself in New York and San Francisco/SV on a regular basis. If you’re living in those areas, please let me know! I’d love to grab a coffee or a drink and hear what everyone else has been up to during my next trip. Best, Michael
Kacey Carpenter: As 2026 begins, I carry gratitude and a clear-eyed perspective shaped by a year of challenges. I’m deeply concerned about rising authoritarianism and threats to our democracy, but I remain an optimist, grounded in purpose, confident in my ability to act, and focused on a plan centered on family, community, and meaningful work. This past year reminded me how extraordinary life in Oregon is. Within an hour, we can walk the beaches and hear the Pacific, wander deep forests, explore the high desert, or play in fresh snow with our adopted chiweenie, Wilbur. I’m excited to launch my next National Park mystery-thriller, Murder in Vacationland, continue community organizing and volunteering, and pursue writing that matters. I also share weekly reflections where travel, nature, and purpose intersect in my Life is a Journey newsletter: lifeisajourney.substack.com. If your travels bring you to Oregon, I would love to connect.
Natasha Quist: Still working in development in Africa and reeling from the fallout of the decimation of USAID. Currently focused on the agriculture sector in West Africa but keenly looking at where to finally unpack my bags. My soccer mad son is off to college this year! Imagine being 18 again!
Gary Skraba: Not much exciting to report, but just wanted to say hello to all! Nicolette (my wife) and I just celebrated our ten-year anniversary by returning to our honeymoon destination of Disney World for a week; otherwise, all is quiet here in our Southern California suburb of Claremont as I live the retired life, take care of the house and yard, volunteer for our church (mostly accounting assistance), and fight Father Time as best as possible. Wishing everyone all the best for 2026!
Chris Malone: I had the chance to reconnect over dinner with classmate Guy Hurley after speaking at a healthcare conference in Abu Dhabi recently. I’m also working on a new book entitled The HUMAN Remedy: Why Relationship Matter as Much as Medicine, which will hopefully be published in late 2026!
