Jan. 13, 2015
CWU Names Sanchez to Government Relations Team
Central Washington University has appointed Antonio Sanchez assistant director of Government Relations. Sanchez, who holds a PhD in anthropology, joins CWU's Public Affairs department, where he will focus on state government relations. Sanchez is a former staff director for the House Higher Education Committee and instructor at the University of Washington.
“Antonio brings a deep understanding of the people and processes that shape public policy," said Linda Schactler, CWU’s chief of staff and executive director of Public Affairs. “His knowledge of legislative caucuses and leadership dynamics will help to make our communication with legislative leaders more effective."
Sanchez will be one of the university's primary liaisons with legislators and civic and business groups in the Puget Sound area. Based at CWU's Des Moines campus, Sanchez will be a key liaison for veterans’ issues, and enhance communications with education agencies, elected officials, and communities in western Washington.
“As we confront the legislative challenges of the foreseeable future, it is essential that we develop a sustainable, long-term allegiance with legislators, community leaders, and state officials on behalf of Central’s outstanding students, faculty and staff,” said CWU President James Gaudino. “I am pleased to welcome Antonio, and look forward to leveraging his great experience.”
Sanchez earned a doctorate in medical anthropology from the University of Washington and has more than 20 years of legislative background. He served as a senior legislative analyst with the Washington Legislature where he focused on higher education, health care, protocol and economic development.
Sanchez also was a faculty member in the Department of American Ethnic Studies at the UW where he taught Hispanic studies for the past six years. He specializes in the history and heritage of Latinos in Washington and co-authored a K-12 teacher training guide and curriculum called Fruits of Our Labor. Sanchez is a motivational speaker and frequently provides leadership training to young adults. He has received numerous awards and recognitions for his educational and international economic development accomplishments.
Sanchez believes education is the backbone and future of our state and says he is honored to be part of Team CWU. “I am looking forward to helping CWU continue to build a very positive and diverse future,” Sanchez said. “This position has a great deal of responsibility and I take it seriously.”
Media contact: Barb Arnott, CWU Public Affairs, 509-963-2841, barnott@cwu.edu
January 13, 2015