A multi-disciplinary student leader based in Washington, D.C.

Evelyn R. Chao is a multi-disciplinary student leader based in Washington, D.C., studying at Sidwell Friends School. She builds things that teach and last — from student-run ventures and curricula to original music, illustrated books, and performance projects — all grounded in practical, repeatable methods that others can learn and lead.

Her entrepreneurial journey started at the young age of 14, where she earned the Project Management Ready™ Certification from the Project Management Institute (PMI). Since then, she has channeled her social service enthusiasm into championing project management education, inspiring young individuals of all backgrounds to apply project management learning to achieve their full potential and make a positive impact on their communities. Believing in the transformative power of education and the unity of knowledge and action, Evelyn took the initiative to establish the 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization PM Ready Inc., accessible at www.pmready.org. She looks forward to collaborating with others to create a more peaceful, equitable, and sustainable world.

Driven by curiosity and craft, Evelyn co-founds and runs multiple initiatives across education, media, athletics, and the arts. She also authors many award-winning books, produces short, award-winning documentaries, and creates accessible learning programs that help peers turn ideas into real impact.

A dedicated musician and athlete, Evelyn performs as a violinist in her orchestra (MCYO), composes and records with her band, and competes in skating and coxing — activities she treats as the foundation for leadership and teamwork. She's also active in the U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps, runs tutoring and coaching programs, and maintains a range of creator projects and social channels that show behind-the-scene processes and lifestyle/study tips (@skatercoxswain).

Evelyn believes great work combines thoughtful design, inclusive access, and steady practice. She mentors peers in project leadership, consults with community partners, and leads workshops that translate small experiments into scalable programs. Her approach favors hands-on learning, short feedback cycles, and attention to craft.

Growing up as a military youth in an immigrant family, Evelyn learned early that knowledge matters most when it is joined with action and service — a conviction that now shapes every program she builds.

Outside organized projects, she loves reading, watching films with family, hanging out with friends, and going on a long peaceful walk. Evelyn is a loving older sister to her two sisters, Elaine and Elise, and takes pleasure in nurturing their inquisitiveness by engaging them in enjoyable small-scale projects.

Evelyn is available for speaking, collaborations, workshops, and mentorship; she aims to keep building across fields — wherever learning meets doing, inspiring generations of changemakers.