We are thrilled to announce Traci Underwood has joined the team as Policy Director at the Economic Opportunity Institute! Bringing over 20 years of public policy experience, Traci has worked to advance economic justice for Washingtonians since 2001. As Policy Director, Traci is eager to help guide EOI’s research, advocacy and policy development, and continue EOI’s legacy of innovation in Washington’s progressive policy landscape.

EOI Board President Michael Tamayo notes, “Traci brings a deep-rooted expertise in progressive policy being appointed to the Governor’s Poverty Reduction Workgroup and Working Families Tax Credit Coalition. In addition to this, her work as an instructor at the University of Washington’s School of Social Work will strengthen EOI’s already top tier policy team by bringing a lens of mentorship and organization as we continue to be at the forefront of progressive policy in Washington State and in the nation.”

EOI Executive Director Summer Stinson praises Traci’s “decades of work and experience on important economic justice issues, advocating for equitable policies for impacted communities, and working in coalition and collaboration with numerous key partners in economic justice. Her deep understanding of how federal, state, and local support systems interact is invaluable, especially as EOI and partners work to get direct assistance to those who need it most.”

Traci’s career reflects her dedication to strengthening economic security and opportunity for all in our state. We hope you will join us in welcoming this strategic leader to our team. As always, we are deeply grateful to you, our dedicated community of supporters, allies, and friends. With you by our side, we will continue to make real change for working people in our state.