This past weekend, the MPA program had the pleasure of hosting several distinguished guest speakers in the course AI and Public Service of What’s Possible, led by Amy Gould, Ph.D. Dive into the details below to learn more about each speaker and their contributions.
Aaron Jones, Natural & Cultural Resources Director, The Tulalip Tribes of Washington
Aaron Jones serves as the Natural & Cultural Resources Director for The Tulalip Tribes of Washington. With a deep commitment to environmental stewardship and cultural preservation, Aaron oversees initiatives that protect and restore natural habitats, ensuring the sustainability of tribal lands and resources. His leadership in managing fisheries, forestry, and wildlife programs is vital to maintaining the ecological balance and cultural heritage of the Tulalip Tribes. Aaron received his MPA degree from The Evergreen State College in 2016.
https://nr.tulaliptribes.com/Directory
Iisaaksiichaa Braine, Director of Tribal Relations, Washington State Office of Equity
Iisaaksiichaa Braine is the Director of Tribal Relations at the Washington State Office of Equity. A citizen of the Apsaalooke (Crow) Nation and descendant of the Tsitsistas (Northern Cheyenne), Iisaaksiichaa is dedicated to advancing tribal sovereignty and equity. His work focuses on fostering positive relationships between tribes and state government, ensuring that tribal voices are heard and respected in policy-making processes.
https://equity.wa.gov/iisaaksiichaa-braine
Caitlyn McNabb, Director of Innovation & Performance, Washington State Office of Equity
Caitlyn McNabb is the Director of Innovation & Performance at the Washington State Office of Equity. With a passion for service and a background in various fields, Caitlyn leads efforts to drive innovation and improve performance across state agencies. Her work involves implementing strategies that address systemic inequities and promote equitable outcomes for all Washington residents.
https://equity.wa.gov/caitlyn-y-mcnabb
Katy Ruckle, State Chief Privacy Officer, WA Tech
Katy Ruckle serves as the State Chief Privacy Officer at WA Tech. Since her appointment in 2020, Katy has been recognized for her leadership in enhancing privacy protections and data governance across Washington state. Her initiatives include comprehensive privacy training for state employees and integrating privacy with cybersecurity measures, ensuring robust protection of personal information.
Nick Stowe, State Chief Technology Officer, WA Tech
Nick Stowe is the State Chief Technology Officer at WA Tech. Appointed in 2023, Nick has been instrumental in transforming Washington’s technological landscape through initiatives like the AI Community of Practice and Identity and Access Management Program. His leadership focuses on fostering collaboration, enhancing service delivery, and advancing equitable public service achievements.
Vicky Tamaru, Economist, buildJUSTLY.org
Vicky Tamaru is an economist and a driving force behind buildJUSTLY.org. Her work focuses on increasing technology participation sustainably and equitably. Vicky has been instrumental in launching initiatives like tech4all.biz, which empowers small business owners from disadvantaged communities across Washington State. Her dedication to digital equity and inclusive technology solutions is making significant strides in bridging the digital divide.
Cherika Carter, Secretary Treasurer, WA State Labor Council, AFL-CIO
Cherika Carter serves as the Secretary Treasurer of the Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO. Elected in October 2022, Cherika oversees all financial documents and records for the council. She has a rich background in political and strategic campaigns, having previously served as the council’s Political and Strategic Campaigns Director. Cherika’s commitment to fighting oppression and advancing the freedoms of all working people is evident in her leadership and advocacy efforts.