Olympia, WA – Following an extensive search that involved dozens of applicants from across the Pacific Northwest, the Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) has welcomed Nanette Star as the new Director of Tribal Relations.

Star joins DCYF with 15 years of experience working with Tribal, Urban Indian, state, and county systems. As a descendant of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, she brings both professional and personal commitment to a position that serves as a bridge between Tribal Nations and the state.

“Too often, things get lost in translation, whether that is in policy, funding, or how decisions are carried out,” said Star. “This role helps close those gaps, so communication is clearer and follow-through is stronger.

Prior to joining DCYF, Star served as the director of policy and planning for the California Consortium for Urban Indian Health. In that position, she led legislative strategies and helped shape how Tribal consultation was implemented within public health systems.

Star says she was impressed with Washington’s work with Tribal Nations and was drawn to DCYF for its unique oversight across child welfare, early learning, and juvenile rehabilitation.

“I have seen what happens when systems separate children from their families, culture, and community. I have also seen what happens when that connection is protected or restored,” said Star. “That connection matters at every point, whether a family is working to stay together or a young person is already in the system and finding their way back.”

Secretary Tana Senn said Star’s experience working with Tribes in the Pacific Northwest was one of the reasons why she was the right person for the position.

Star previously worked at the Alaska Native Epidemiology Center and the Northwest Portland Area Indian Health Board. 

“Her work has centered on helping systems better align with Tribal sovereignty and on strengthening government-to-government relations,” said Secretary Senn. “I look forward to seeing her build strong and meaningful relationships that will ensure Tribal children, families, and communities in Washington receive services that are high quality and respectful of Tribal cultures.”

Contact:

Nancy Gutierrez, Director of External Communications |360-742-6418 |nancy.gutierrez@dcyf.wa.gov