The Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) is pleased to welcome Cassie Anderson (she/her) as the new director of the Office of Tribal Relations (OTR). Cassie is
transitioning to this new role having served as OTR’s Operations Manager since June 2023.
As Operations Manager, she played a key role in overseeing program operations and building collaborative partnerships with tribal communities. Her responsibilities included supporting tribal initiatives, enhancing service delivery for tribal children and families, and ensuring compliance with Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) standards across state programs.
Cassie’s professional journey began in the non-profit sector with the NATIVE Project, followed by her transition to state service in 2006 when she joined the Children’s Administration. She has dedicated 10 years to various Indian Child Welfare (ICW) programs, including CPS, Child and Family Welfare Services, Family Voluntary Services, Family Assessment Response, and tribal payment only (TPO) case management.
In 2017, Cassie took on the role of Program and Support Services Director at the Healing Lodge of the Seven Nations. She returned to state service by joining OTR’s team in 2023. Throughout her career, Cassie has embraced roles that drive positive change, championed solutions for better outcomes, and promoted advocacy for our most vulnerable populations. Known for her dedication to open dialogue, she is committed to having courageous conversations that foster honesty, authenticity, and respect.
Cassie is a citizen of the Chippewa Cree Tribe of the Rocky Boy’s Reservation. She has a B.S. and M.S. degree in Criminal Justice and Criminology from Portland State University.
Visit the Office of Tribal Relations webpage for more information or email dcyf.tribalrelations@dcyf.wa.gov.