Kathleen Barry Johnson
Executive Director

Kathleen is a seasoned nonprofit and community development leader. Most recently, she served as Executive Director at Vashon Youth and Family Services, helping to provide mental health and human services to the residents of Vashon Island. Kathleen was a Ford Foundation Fellow at the University of Washington, where she earned an LLM in Law & Marine affairs. She also holds a JD cum laude from Southern Illinois University. Kathleen has lived with her family in Seattle since the 1990s.

Ellen Ta

Office Manager & Bookkeeper

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Ellen is a dedicated advocate for equity and a passionate supporter of small businesses. With a background in small business work since 2010, she has a deep appreciation for the pivotal role small businesses paly in our communities. Ellen is particularly focused on preserving the unique culture of Seattle's Endangered Chinatown International District by working in HSD by fostering the growth and advocacy of local businesses.

MaryKate Ryan

Preservation Planner

MaryKate is an architectural historian, fascinated with space and how we use it. She holds degrees in art and architectural history from the University of Oregon and Agnes Scott College. After spending 14 years working for state historic preservation offices in three states, she moved to Seattle to work in neighborhood and community development. She worked for the Seattle Chinatown International District Preservation and Development Authority for 4 years before coming to HSD. She lives in the Jackson Place neighborhood.

Ashley-Nichole Holland

Community & Policy Manager

Ashley-Nichole a community organizer and policy advocate with almost 10 years of experiencing advocating for vulnerable communities in Olympia. She is proud alumni of Western Washington University with degrees in history and literature. Ashley comes to us after years of advocating for workers and their families. She previously served as the Vice Chair of Board of Directors for Skate Like a Girl and continues to mentor youth in our community.

Staff

Board Members

Established by RCW 43.167.010, the HSD Board is comprised of members embedded in the communities we serve. Members serve a maximum of 6 years in two 3-year terms. Elections are held in October of each year. Appointments may be made to fill vacancies at any time.

Elections + Apointments