Faculty

Oussama (Sam) Alkhalili

Oussama "Sam" Alkhalili is a Professor and Business Division Chair at Highline College with 30+ years of experience in academia and leadership. Starting as a math tutor in 1992, he has served in pivotal roles such as Faculty Senate Chair and Director of the Tutoring Center.Education: MS in Info Tech; BS in Comp Info Systems.

Teaching Focus: Business, Computer Science, and Tech (Excel, Web Design, and Business Math).
Contributions: Developed curricula for Social Media for Business and Visual Communication; known for industry-aligned instruction.

Leadership & Advocacy: An advocate for the Arab-American community in the Pacific NW, Sam has held several high-profile roles:
Current Role: Treasurer for the Lebanese American Society of Seattle.

Past Leadership: President of the Arab Alliance Chamber of Commerce of WA and the Arab Center of Washington.

Advocacy: Frequent speaker on Islamophobia and cultural awareness; mentor to international and athletic student organizations.

Kelli Barkov

I have been with Highline College since 2025, teaching Business and Business Technology. Originally from Alaska, I earned my bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Alaska Southeast. My family moved to Seattle in 2018 to explore new opportunities in the beautiful Pacific Northwest. I bring 20 years of experience in the financial and investment industry, spanning government, nonprofit, and corporate sectors.
 
I love teaching Business Technology because in today’s digital economy, it’s more than a skill—it’s a gateway to opportunity. Technology doesn’t see race, gender, or background; it sees creativity, persistence, and capability. Learning tools like Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and data systems empowers students to organize, analyze, communicate, and lead. These skills level the playing field and open doors to growth and confidence. I’m excited to share my passion for business and technology with Highline students. Go Thunderbirds!

Sherri Chun

There's nothing I love more than a student completing their degree or certificate, and feeling like they are ready for the next step in their professional journey. I started teaching at Highline College after a successful and fulfilling career in business, working at IBM, JD Edwards, and Cap Gemini Ernst & Young. I have a BA and MBA from the University of Washington. 

In my spare time I love to ski and cook, and spend time with my family including my funny dog Pico. I look forward to meeting you either in the classroom or online!

Marcia Welch

I have been teaching at Highline College since 1998. I found my passion for teaching and my home at Highline College after having had a successful career in the medical software industry as an office manager, installation trainer, and a support representative for medical accounts receivable and electronic claims software. I earned my Bachelors of Arts degree in Child & Family Studies from Washington State University and my Masters of Arts in Education with an Adult Online Education emphasis from the University of Phoenix.

My favorite part of teaching is seeing students grow and learn as their hard work pays off and they earn their degree or certificate. I love to see student’s enthusiasm when they have that “aha” moment while understanding concepts that had been challenging.

In my spare time, I enjoy laughing with family and friends, reading, learning new things, painting, camping, playing games, enjoying our mountains and water, and spending time with my sweet Bichon Frise dog Luci.