West Plains, MO, April 2, 2026 – The National Association of Workforce Development Professionals (NAWDP) today announced the newly elected State Directors to serve on the NAWDP Board of Directors for a three-year term starting on July 1, 2026.

“The Board of Directors serve an imperative role in guiding NAWDP’s strategic planning,” said Melissa Robbins, Chief Executive Officer for NAWDP. “We are thankful for the experience, commitment, and enthusiasm that they bring to the table as we work to support workforce development professionals nationwide.”

In accordance with NAWDP’s bylaws, State Directors are elected from the top 15 NAWDP membership states, determined in December preceding the election. The individuals below have been elected by NAWDP’s membership to represent the following states:

  • Arizona
  • California
  • Colorado
    • Tami Grant
      RMWDA President & Deputy Director-Weld County Department of Human Services,  Workforce Colorado-Weld County
  • Connecticut
    • Dan Garewski
      Career and Business Administrator,  Capital Workforce Partners
  • Florida
  • Illinois
  • Indiana
  • Maryland
    • Walter Simmons
      Acting Secretary, Maryland Department of Social and Economic Mobility
  • Michigan
    • Natasha Allen
      Director of Strategic Initiatives, Michigan Works! Association
  • Missouri
  • Pennsylvania
    • Lauren Holubec
      Executive Director, Pennsylvania Workforce Development Association
  • Texas

The states of North Carolina, Oregon, and Virginia did not receive nominations during the nomination period. Per the NAWDP bylaws, this seat will be filled by appointment by the NAWDP Board of Directors Chair.

NAWDP’s Board of Directors represents an extensive community of more than 5,400 workforce development professionals from across the nation. For more information about NAWDP’s programs, Certified Workforce Development Professional (CWDP) certification, and membership, visit www.nawdp.org.