OLYMPIA – Today Governor Bob Ferguson announced the appointment of Jenifer Chao as executive director of the Washington State Commission on Asian Pacific American Affairs. The appointment is effective Nov. 1.
The Commission on Asian Pacific American Affairs (CAPAA) is a state agency tasked with improving the lives of Asian, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander residents in Washington state by ensuring their access to government, business, education and more. The commission includes an advisory board of 12 commissioners who are also appointed by the Governor.
The commission traces its origins to Gov. Dan Evans, whose 1972 executive order created The Governor’s Asian Advisory Council. Two years later, the Legislature formally created the commission. In 1995, the name was changed to include Pacific Islanders and Native Hawaiians to reflect the broad diversity of the community.
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Chao brings more than 25 years of experience in public policy, strategic leadership, and managing complex organizations. Most recently, she worked with the Asian Pacific Islander Coalition Advocating Together for Health (APICAT), a grassroots organization rooted in community.
“Washington’s vibrant and growing Asian American and Pacific Islander communities are an integral part of our state’s identity,” Governor Ferguson said. “Jenifer Chao’s deep commitment to the community and extensive advocacy experience will be valuable additions to the commission."
“I am honored to serve as the next Executive Director of CAPAA as we enter a new chapter,” Chao said. “As a Mien immigrant who has dedicated the past 27 years to public service, 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.”
“The commission is absolutely thrilled to welcome Jenifer to the team,” CAPAA Chair Kendall Kosai said. “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. 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.”
Chao received a Bachelor of Arts in communications from the University of Washington. Before joining APICAT, Chao held various leadership roles at the City of Seattle, including director of the Department of Neighborhoods, where she advanced community-centered governance. Chao began her public service career at Asian Counseling & Referral Service and Neighborhood House and partnered with community coalitions to advance the needs of immigrant, refugee, and historically underserved communities.
Nam Nguyen, a former CAPAA commissioner, has served as interim executive director of CAPAA since 2024. He took over for former executive director Toshiko Grace Hasegawa.
“I appreciate Nam Nguyen stepping in to lead the commission during this transition,” Governor Ferguson said. “Thank you, Nam, for your service to the people of Washington state and our Asian, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander communities.”
