Jenifer Chao. Via Office of the Governor.
Gov. Bob Ferguson has appointed Jenifer Chao to be executive director of the Washington State Commission on Asian Pacific American Affairs (CAPAA), effective Nov. 1.
The state agency is tasked with understanding and improving the lives of Asians, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders in Washington, and works to ensure access to different areas of life, including government, education, and business. The agency has a 12-commissioner advisory board, whom the governor also appoints.
Chao said that she is honored to serve as the agency’s next executive director.
“As a Mien immigrant who has dedicated the past 27 years to public service,” she said, “I understand how public policy can impact a community’s ability to thrive. I am excited to partner closely with our commissioners to advance equity for our Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities.”
Chao has more than 25 years of experience in complex organizational management, public policy, and strategic leadership. She most recently worked with grassroots organization Asian Pacific Islander Coalition Advocating Together for Health. She began her career in public service at the Asian Counseling & Referral Service and Neighborhood House, and has also held various leadership roles at the City of Seattle, including as the Department of Neighborhoods director.
CAPAA Chair Kendall Kosai extended a warm welcome to Chao, and said that the commission is “absolutely thrilled” to have Chao lead.
“Jenifer’s deep understanding of community, combined with her experience navigating complex institutional systems, positions her for success as CAPAA undergoes a period of planning and growth,” Kosai said. “The Commission looks forward to working together to ensure that all Native Hawaii/Pacific Islander and Asian/Asian American communities are represented in our state government.”
Former CAPAA commissioner Nam Nguyen has served as interim director of 2024, taking over for Toshiko Grace Hasegawa, who currently serves as a Port Commissioner and is seeking the Metropolitan King County Council District 2 seat in November’s election.
Gov. Bob Ferguson expressed enthusiasm at Chao’s appointment, saying that her “deep commitment to the community and extensive advocacy experience will be valuable additions to the Commission.”
He also thanked Nguyen for serving as interim executive director for the last two years: “Thank you, Nam, for your service to the people of Washington state and our Asian, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities.”
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