Gov. Jay Inslee today named Maria Siguenza director of the Commission on Hispanic Affairs. She replaces Lisa van der Lugt who was recently named director of the Office of Minority and Women's Business Enterprises.
The commission strives to improve public policy development and the delivery of government services to the Hispanic community.
Siguenza is currently the manager of equity, inclusion and diversity at the Department of Licensing, where she leads efforts with agency staff and community partners through outreach and engagement.
Prior to joining DOL, Siguenza served as the business diversity and legislative program manager at the Department of Social and Health Services. She also worked as interpreter quality assurance coordinator at DSHS, a medical assistance specialist with the Washington State Health Care Authority, and at Sea Mar Community Health Centers.
She handled Spanish-English interpreter services at Skagit Valley Hospital and ran her own business as a medical interpreter.
Siguenza has also worked in sales and accounting for Skagit Growers and as an office manager at a small family-owned farm.
“I thank Lisa for leading the commission these past two years and helping my office and our state agencies engage our Hispanic and Latino communities during numerous crisis situations and policy challenges. Maria’s extensive experience in community engagement will ensure that good work continues, and that we continue to ensure all voices are represented in the work of state government,” Inslee said.
"We are excited to see Maria build on the momentum left by Lisa," said Brian Moreno, chair of the Commission on Hispanic Affairs and a small business owner from Pasco. "This is an opportunity to look at our work through a new lens and gain from Maria's diverse experience."
"Maria brings a wealth of talent and skills that will greatly benefit the Latino community of our state and the work of the commission," said David Morales, vice-chair of the commission and a legal aid attorney in Yakima.
Siguenza has a bachelor’s degree in humanities and social sciences from Western Washington University.
Her appointment begins in August.
