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We are honored to share some incredible news—our Washington State Chapter of NIGP has been selected as one of three finalists for the 2025 Outstanding Chapter of the Year Award in two prestigious categories: Advocacy and Outreach and Membership!

This recognition reflects the incredible dedication and engagement of our members, and I want to extend my heartfelt congratulations to each of you for helping make this achievement possible. This was also possible to your hard-working board of directors and committee chairs who worked tirelessly to put together the applications and submitted to NIGP.

Our very own WANIGP Co-Chair of the Emerging Professional Program, Past Chapter President is the recipient of this year's NIGP Leadership Award.

Cheral Manke is the kind of leader who doesn’t just lead a team, she builds a community. She nurtures potential – seeing strengths where others see obstacles, encouraging growth where others might settle for status quo.

In a world full of leaders who focus on results, she focuses on people. And in doing so, she achieves the extraordinary. Her leadership within NIGP has left an enduring impact. She has served in various capacities, from chapter leadership to national committees, always advocating for procurement excellence.

Check this out what's inside...

President's Message
Mariner's Game
New Members
WANIGP Finalist for 2 National Chapter Awards
Fall Conference
Jobs Board
Upcoming Events & Training

Join us on Friday, August 22nd for WANIGP Family and Friends Outing.

Tickets are only $18 (inclusive of fees and taxes) valued between $50-$100. Main seat level 100 tickets.

Purchase your ticket by July 18th and win 2 extra Season tickets.

Dear Washington State Chapter of NIGP:

Whether you're looking to master source selection methods or refine your contract administration skillset, we've got the perfect classes for you.

Support the Cause: Selecting "Washington State Chapter" in the dropdown when registering provides funds back

David Nash's renowned Questions of the Day has a new look, same mission. If you, or anyone you know, has set their sights on testing for the CPPB, CPPO, or the NIGP-CPP, the David Nash Question of the Day can help.

Click here to learn more

Vivian has over 11 years of professional experience in purchasing and supply planning. She started her career in fashion merchandising for five years. In recent years, she worked as a supply chain planner for both Starbucks and Nestle and is currently a Senior Purchasing Agent at the City of Redmond. Outside of work, Vivian enjoys doing fun, spontaneous and creative things – including DIY projects, attending museums, going to concerts, and solo traveling internationally.

Please give a warm welcome to Tiffany Matson of the City of Anacortes to the Legislative Liaison role.

We would like to welcome our new Vice-President. Miranda Laratta. Here's her short introduction.

"I am the Procurement & Contracts Manager at Whatcom Transportation Authority and have been a member of WANIGP and a National Member since 2023. Though my time with the chapter has been short, the relationships have been meaningful. It’s an honor to serve Washington’s procurement community and to give back to a chapter that has welcomed me so warmly.

I am originally from Ontario, Canada, should anyone want to talk hockey with me. I have a B.A, an NIGP-CPP certification, and I have won three National James Bond Trivia Competitions. I serve on the chapter’s Membership Board and have enjoyed getting to know many of you because of that. I look forward to building relationships with more members and discovering how I can best serve this community. Please feel free to reach out to say hello and to introduce yourself. Email me at vp@wanigp,org

I am both honored and privileged to present the 2024 President’s award to Samantha Miller.

Sam is truly deserving of this award as she is one who has shown unwavering commitment to our chapter, an individual whose dedication and hard work have greatly contributed to our organization. The President’s award is not given lightly, it is a testament to her exceptional service and outstanding accomplishments.

Linda Hodgson nominated for the WANIGP 2024 Procurement Manager of the Year.

Connie Wahl began her procurement career at the City of Spokane as a clerk then, due to her outstanding service, progressed to her current position as Senior Procurement Specialist. She manages a team of three procurement professionals who support around 30 City departments, with 300 staff requiring procurement training.

One of Connie’s outstanding accomplishments incudes spearheading, with the assistance of the Legal Department, a Small Works and Architectural and Engineering Roster programsfor the City. This project required the revision of the Spokane Municipal Code and established effective procedures for public works procurements. Connie was also instrumental as the City implemented the procurement module into Spokane’s financial management system. In fact, she is proud to be considered a City Ambassador where her certificate states “The City of Spokane recognizes Connie Wahl for outstanding dedi

Anna Vogel, Procurement Manager, City of Vancouver nominated for the 2024 Procurement Specialist of the Year.

Julie Denton has more than 13 years of experience in public procurement, contract administration and supply management. Julie is currently a Senior Procurement Specialist for the City of Vancouver and is responsible for the procurement of public works construction projects including contract administration for each of her projects. Julie has sought out and earned not only her CPPB but was also the first in our organization to achieve her NIGP-CPP. She is a dedicated procurement professional who is not only committed to the success of the organization but of her team as well.

Join us on the second Wednesday of each month from 2:00-3:00 p.m. for our Emerging Professionals roundtable sessions.... We need to hear from all levels, so we welcome new and seasoned procurement professionals. Bring your
questions or share your expertise, while getting to
know your Washington Chapter peers across our great local public procurement community.

Are you a purpose-driven procurement professional who is ready to give back to our profession locally?

An organization is only as strong as those members who support its goals. Through the efforts of our committees, we continue to serve our membership and enhance an environment of professional development.

We need your time and talent to continue our success! Contact us at info@wanigp.org

Dear WANIGP Members:
As we wrap up another dynamic quarter, I want to take a moment to thank each of you for helping us
turn ambition into action. Back in Q2, we set out to elevate our chapter’s visibility, deepen our
engagement, and drive innovation—and thanks to your enthusiasm, we’ve made exceptional progress.