Angie smiles with her Appaloosa mare, Classy, after completing the virtual Tevis cup (a 100-mile ride).
Angie Senter joins Inatai Foundation as Event Planner. We asked Angie Senter ten questions to learn more about her background, community, and how she connects to our work at Inatai.
Name: Angie Senter
Pronouns: she/her
Role: Event Planner
Home County: Pullman, Whitman County
1. What are three words that describe you?
Empathetic, Outgoing, Creative
2. What is the “long story short” of how you landed at Inatai?
I spent nine years teaching and planning events in higher education, loving the chance to connect people and ideas. At Washington State University, a land-grant institution, I learned the power of events that connect communities statewide. When I discovered Inatai, something clicked—the mission felt like home. As a Samish Nation citizen, I was moved by Inatai’s partnerships with tribal nations and its commitment to equity. Joining this team isn’t just a career move; it’s a chance to align my skills with my values and help create meaningful change across Washington.
3. What excites you most about being part of Team Inatai?
What excites me most is the chance to showcase Washington’s hidden gems through unforgettable events. As a lifelong Washingtonian, I know the magic of places off the beaten path. Planning gatherings in these unique spaces feels like sharing a secret with our attendees, creating experiences that celebrate the richness of our state while connecting people in meaningful ways.
4. Tell us about the community or communities you belong to.
Oh goodness, this one is hard to answer! Because I have spent almost 20 years in events, I feel connected to all kinds of communities. I spend a lot of time researching the location as well as the attendee demographics for any event I plan. I like immersing myself in these new buckets of people and finding the unique ways that we connect so that I can plan an event that is authentic and valuable to each group.
5. Inatai’s strategies are underlined by a 50-Year Vision informed by communities. What is it about your community that keeps you hopeful for the future?
As a Samish woman, I’m inspired by the resurgence of tribal language and art. I am taking language lessons and through those lessons I am meeting new Samish family and gaining a deeper understanding of how language bridges the past and the present. This revival gives me hope; it’s a powerful reminder that culture endures and thrives through community.
6. Finish this sentence: The Inatai value the most resonates with me is…
Joy.
7. Who is your favorite Washingtonian?
My favorite Washingtonian is Deborah Parker, a Tulalip activist who championed tribal sovereignty and protection for Native women. Her leadership was pivotal in reconstructing the Violence Against Women Act, restoring tribal jurisdiction over domestic violence cases. She continues to fight for Indigenous women’s voices and community power.
8. Where is your favorite place in Washington?
My favorite place is Birch Bay. I was born and raised there on the edge of the Lummi reservation. It is my favorite place because my family is there and that is where the water meets the sky.
9. What is the last thing you read, watched, or listened to that you would recommend? Why?
Fun fact: I rarely watch TV or movies, so I miss a lot of social contexts. I read a lot, however. The last thing I read was Benjamin Franklin’s autobiography. I bought it while on vacation in Philadelphia this summer. It offers a fascinating glimpse into his life and the ideals that shaped our country.
10. What do you like to do when you’re not at work?
When I’m not working, I’m outdoors with friends, family, and animals. I like hiking, kayaking, and camping across the Palouse. I share adventures with my amazing Appaloosa mare, Classy, who’s carried me hundreds of miles, and Zack, my fluffy, fabulous yak.
