OLYMPIA—Brittany Gregory has been appointed as the new executive director of the Washington State Women’s Commission following a statewide search conducted by the Office of Governor Bob Ferguson. Gregory steps into the role at a time when women across the state face increasing challenges, including federal policies and budget cuts that impact essential services.
“I am excited to work with Brittany again in this important role,” Governor Ferguson stated in his announcement of her appointment. “Brittany helped us improve the lives of Washingtonians as my deputy legislative director at the Attorney General’s Office. She’s an experienced advocate who understands how good public policy is made. Brittany’s skillset makes her a natural choice to carry on the Commission’s mission.”
The Women’s Commission, established by the Washington State Legislature in 2018, aims to ensure state policies address the needs of women and girls, particularly those from marginalized communities. Gregory, a seasoned policy strategist with over eight years of experience, brings a robust background in legislative and judicial relations. Her previous roles include Associate Director of Judicial and Legislative Relations at the Washington State Administrative Office of the Courts and Deputy Legislative Director at the Washington State Attorney General’s Office.
She has helped shepherd high-profile legislation into law, including banning the sale of tobacco and vaping products to those under 21 and a Student Loan Bill of Rights. She also led the first statewide investigation into use of force incidents by law enforcement in Washington.
“We are facing a looming budget deficit and new hostile policies that come out every day,” Gregory said in a video message. “We’ve been faced with a really dangerous landscape for women across communities, especially those in marginalized communities.”
Gregory highlighted the urgency of the commission’s mission amid current political and economic challenges. She emphasized the need to protect vulnerable groups and connect communities with decision-makers to drive policy changes. The commission’s goals include identifying the needs of women and girls, gathering public input, advising state institutions, and partnering with organizations to provide services.
“As executive director, you are trusting me to uplift the voices, hopes, and concerns of women and girls across the state, and that is something that I take very seriously,” she added.
Gregory’s vision is to position the commission as a central hub for advancing women’s well-being, grounded in data and community input. The commission, composed of 13 members including nine voting commissioners appointed by the governor and four non-voting legislative advisors, operates under a mandate to promote equitable opportunities and remove systemic barriers.
The public is encouraged to engage with the commission through newsletters, social media, and public meetings, with contact information available at WSWC.WA.gov.
Author: Mario Lotmore
