AARP Washington Welcomes New Executive Council Members

AARP Washington is pleased to welcome two new Executive Council Members, Ed Escalante of Bellevue and Kay Tomlinson of Lake Tapps. This volunteer leadership team plays a pivotal role in shaping the strategic vision and initiatives for nearly 870,000 members across the state.

In his new role, Ed Escalante will focus on advancing AARP's mission with the Washington State Congressional delegation. This includes raising awareness and building connections with lawmakers to gain support for policies related to health, financial security, and consumer protection.

A passionate advocate for helping others, Escalante has dedicated his efforts to improving conditions for military families. He serves as a Veteran of Foreign Wars Service Officer and is a founding member of the McKesson Military Resource Group. Additionally, he is involved with the U.S. Veterans Administration Engagement Group for the Center of Innovation.

Escalante retired as Vice President and General Manager for McKesson Corporation. Earlier he was a Market President at Alliant Foodservice, and Vice President at Baxter International, where he focused on serving healthcare facilities and providers. He remains engaged in the business of healthcare as a member of the Washington State Health Benefit Exchange Advisory Committee and assists with local activities as a precinct captain for the 41st Legislative District.

Escalante holds a Master of Business Administration degree from Pepperdine University and a Bachelor of Science degree from Eastern Illinois University.

After retiring six years ago from a successful career in financial management for national and international companies, Kay Tomlinson became a member of AARP Washington's volunteer team. Since then, she has played a key role in the state's volunteer Speakers Bureau, with a strong passion for promoting healthy living, caregiving education, and brain health.

In recent years, Tomlinson has emerged as a lead educator for AARP's Fraud Watch Network, focusing on fraud and cybercrime prevention. Her efforts aim to increase awareness and provide tools that older adults can use to reduce their risk of financial exploitation. As the host of AARP Washington's monthly Fraud Watch Friday broadcasts, she addresses emerging scams and invites audience members to share their own fraud-related questions.

Tomlinson is a Presidential Scholar graduate of City University, a former Board President of the Domestic Abuse Women's Network, and a certified Toastmaster.