Gov. Chris Gregoire announced Oct. 26 the appointment of Kendee Yamaguchi as the executive director of the Washington State Commission on Asian Pacific American Affairs. Yamaguchi is a third-generation Japanese American born and raised in Washington. “She is an emerging leader who brings a solid record of legislative, legal, management and communications experience to the position,” Gov. Gregoire said. “I know she will build and nurture strong relationships to ensure the needs of our Asian Pacific American communities are met.” Yamaguchi was a director in the Office of Management and Administration at the White House. Prior to this position, she worked in the Office of Public Liaison on the signing of the executive order establishing the President’s Advisory Commission on AAPIs. She worked as an attorney in private practice. Yamaguchi earned a bachelor’s degree in political science and public communications from American University. Yamaguchi also earned a juris doctorate from the Seattle University School of Law. Yamaguchi’s appointment is effective Nov. 2nd.
