Office of Governor Gary Locke
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - August 28, 2003
Contact:  Governor's Communications Office, 360-902-4136

Gov. Gary Locke Names New Office of Minority and Women’s Business Enterprises Director

Gov. Gary Locke has appointed Carolyn Crowson as the director of the Office of Minority and Women’s Business Enterprises (OMBWE).

Crowson most recently served as national supplier diversity manager for Washington Mutual Bank. She previously worked as a vice president of the Northwest region for Bank of America and vice president and purchasing manager for Seafirst Bank. She has also been a long-term participant on the board of the Northwest Minority Business Council.

“Carolyn’s business experience and expertise in supplier diversity promotion will be a tremendous asset for the Office of Minority and Women’s Business Enterprises,” Locke said. “I am pleased she has accepted the appointment to lead this important office.”

The OMBWE helps create and sustain an equitable business environment by promoting the participation in public contracting and procurement of all qualified and available businesses owned and controlled by minorities, women and all others who may be socially and economically disadvantaged.

“My goal is to foster economic development for Washington minority- and women-owned businesses through partnership with state agencies, community leaders and private corporations,” Crowson said.

Crowson earned her undergraduate degree in mathematics at Oregon State University. She also graduated with honors from the Pacific Coast Banking School and received a Certified Purchasing Manager designation from the Institute of Supply Management. She has received many local and regional supplier diversity awards.

Crowson begins her appointment Sept. 2. She will be paid $72,624.

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