Gov. Gregoire Appoints Six Agency Directors

For Immediate Release: April 19, 2005

Gov. Christine Gregoire today announced the appointment of six agency leaders. They are:

Carolyn Crowson of Olympia as Director of the Office of Minority and Women�s Business Enterprises. The office helps create an equitable business environment by promoting the participation of minority and women-owned businesses in public contracting and procurement.

The Governor asked Crowson to focus on expanding access to state contracting opportunities for women and minority-owned firms. The Governor also asked that the certification process be quicker and easier for businesses.


Ellen Abellera of Olympia as Executive Director of the State of Washington Commission on Asian Pacific American Affairs. The Commission ensures Asian Pacific Americans access to government, business and education in Washington.

The Governor asked Abellera to lead a health care summit to address the disparity in care for the minority communities, increase the number of Asian Pacific Islander-students who pass the WASL, and assist minority owned business development.


Kris Tucker of Olympia as Executive Director of the Washington State Arts Commission. The Commission leads state efforts to cultivate a thriving environment for creative expression and arts appreciation.

The Governor has asked Tucker to assist a new commission designing the Washington State Commemorative Quarter. The Governor has also asked her to focus on promoting arts education and strengthening arts organizations around the state.


Larry Weber of Olympia as Director of the Department of Printing. The Department of Printing is a self-supporting agency that provides printing services to state agencies, boards, and commissions.

The Governor asked him to reduce the state�s costs for copiers and printers, expanding on-line services, and developing a pilot project to reduce health care costs through prevention programs.


Todd Reeves of Vancouver as Superintendent of the Washington School for the Deaf. The School�s mission is to educate Washington�s deaf and hard of hearing students.

The Governor asked Reeves to strengthen programs that reach deaf and hard of hearing students and teachers in communities across the state.


Dr. Dean Stenehjem of Vancouver as Superintendent of the Washington State School for the Blind. The School provides specialized education programs to Washington�s blind and visually impaired youth.

The Governor wants Stenehjem to expand distance-learning programs, intensive short-term programs on the Vancouver campus, and partnerships with local school districts to reach children in their own homes and schools.