Gov. Gregoire appoints three new directors

For Immediate Release: July 2, 2005

OLYMPIA - July 2, 2005 - Governor Christine Gregoire today made three appointments:

Lou Oma Durand was appointed director of the Washington State Department of Services for the Blind. The department offers assistance to persons who are blind or visually impaired. The department also provides services for employers interested in accommodating or hiring workers with vision loss. Durand has been with the department since 1986, most recently serving as the acting director.

Bill Basl was reappointed executive director of the Washington Commission for National and Community Service (WCNCS). The commission was created to expand volunteerism and national service initiatives. Basl has more than 30 years experience developing community service programs.

Craig A. Bill was appointed director of the Governor�s Office of Indian Affairs. The office works on policy issues involving tribal governments and assists in state-tribal relations. Bill has worked on tribal issues since graduating from Central Washington University in 1998 and has held several positions, including director of Intergovernmental Affairs for the Lummi Nation. He has served as the acting director of the office since December 2004.

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