This week, Governor Inslee appointed Sheri Sawyer (she/her) as Acting Director of the Washington State LGBTQ Commission. Sheri currently serves as Deputy Director of Policy & Outreach for the Governor’s Policy Office. She has been a friend and supporter of the LGBTQ Commission since day one and continues to advocate for the 2SLGBTQIA community from her role in the Governor’s team.

Sheri joined the Governor’s team in 2016 as senior policy advisor for general government. In this capacity, she works on a varied number of issues that range from information technology to open government, contracting and procurement, and cannabis, alcohol, gambling, and lottery. Sheri will serve as Acting Director for the coming months, until the appointment of a permanent Executive Director. This process can take between two and three months.

“I am thrilled with the Governor’s selection of Sheri as Acting Director,” said outgoing and inaugural director J. Manny Santiago. “She has been a great friend of the Commission, and a great colleague to work with. Sheri also has passion for her 2SLGBTQIA community, and I know she will lead the transition with her wisdom and experience in government.”

“I am very excited to receive the appointment of acting director! I have long respected all that the Commission does to help ensure equal opportunity for all Washingtonians,” said incoming active director Sheri Sawyer. “During my time in Governor Inslee’s office, I observed firsthand the Commission and staff’s enthusiastic commitment to the 2SLGBTQIA+ Community. While the search for a permanent director is underway, I look forward to collaborating with you as we consider ways advocate for 2SLGBTQIA+ equity in all aspects of state government. Please reach out at any time!” You can reach Sheri at sheri.sawyer@lgbtq.wa.gov.

The staff of the LGBTQ Commission is incredibly excited to welcome Sheri to the team and continue to work for equity for 2SLGBTQIA+ Washingtonians. Sheri’s acting role will start on Thursday, February 1^st, 2024. The recruitment for a permanent director is already underway, and interested applicants can visit this link for a full description and information on how to apply for the role. 

Washington is home to vibrant communities and diverse Washingtonians who all have unique talents, skills and experiences. Governor Inslee places a high priority on boards, commissions, and agencies that are reflective of the diverse make-up of Washington and that utilize the impressive talent of Washingtonians. We are always seeking skilled and experienced individuals from a wide variety of backgrounds to participate in boards and commissions ensuring an effective and representative government.

We are excited to share the highlighted Current and Upcoming Gubernatorial Appointment Opportunities.

As someone with deep roots in your respective communities and organizations, we hope that you will share these opportunities.  Anyone interested in being appointed will need to fill out this Application.  Please explore the Boards and Commissions Profiles if you are interested in learning more about the many opportunities to get involved!

Thank you for your assistance in helping Governor Inslee find well-rounded candidates with significant talent and diverse experiences. Please feel free to reach out to Boards and Commissions staff with any questions you might have.  Thank you for your time.