OLYMPIA – Feb. 22, 2022 – This month, Gov. Jay Inslee appointed Holly Williams of Vancouver as the newest member of the Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission.
Williams, an experienced engineer and accountant, received her bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Cornell University and moved to Vancouver to work at Hewlett-Packard. After receiving a post-baccalaureate certificate in Accounting from Washington State University Vancouver, she worked as an accountant for Green Empowerment, Mercy Corps and Cascade Forest Conservancy.
“Holly is a true public servant with a passion for supporting her community and advocating for outdoor recreation,” said Commission Chair Mark O. Brown of Lacey. “Her wealth of knowledge and experience will be a huge asset. We’re excited to welcome Holly to the commission.”
Williams is an active member of her community. She recently served as the chair for the City of Vancouver Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission. Previously, she served on the Evergreen School Board and the Washington State School Directors’ Association Legislative Committee. Williams has also volunteered with Math Engineering Science Achievement, Vancouver NAACP, Bike Clark County, School Lunch Buddy, Evergreen Schools Foundation, the Vancouver Rotary Club, Afghan refugee groups and multiple City of Vancouver ad hoc committees. In 2020, she received Vancouver’s Downtown Association Volunteer of the Year Award for leading many origami-centered community art installations.
“My duty is to help preserve and improve our state parks for generations to come,” said Williams. “As our state population continues to become more diverse and outdoor recreation interests evolve, we must take action to ensure that our state parks stay relevant and meet the needs of all Washingtonians. I am excited and honored to serve on the Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission.”
In her leisure time, Williams enjoys cycling, hiking, cross-country skiing and tent camping.
Williams’ term runs through December 31, 2026. She takes the seat vacated by Commissioner Diana Perez, whose term ended in December 2021 when she was elected to serve as a Vancouver City Council member.
News media contact:
Amanda McCarthy, Interim Communications Director
media@parks.wa.gov
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About Washington State Parks
The Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission manages more than 100 state parks and properties totaling approximately 120,000 acres. The Commission provides a variety of recreation opportunities for citizens and provides stewardship protection for a diverse array of natural, cultural and historic resources. State Parks’ statewide programs include long-distance trails, boating safety and winter recreation.
News release number: 22-007