Dakota hiking in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness Region with her dog, Baylou.
Dakota Daniel-Hankin (she/her) joins us as Grants & Data Administrator. We asked Dakota 10 questions to learn more about her background, community, and how she connects to our work at Inatai.
Name: Dakota Daniel-Hankin
Pronouns: she/her
Role: Grants and Data Administrator
Home: Jefferson County
1. What are three words that describe you?
Kind, quirky, supportive
2. What is the “long story short” of how you landed at Inatai?
I’ve spent my career advocating for human rights, especially for women and girls from marginalized communities around the world. After years in global humanitarian work, I wanted to root my efforts closer to home in Washington. I began following Inatai in 2022 and was deeply inspired by Inatai’s work to transform power for equity and racial justice. When a role opened that aligned with my skills, I knew I had to apply. The thoughtful interview process and the people I met confirmed that this was the team and work I wanted to be part of.
3. What excites you most about being part of Team Inatai?
I’m inspired by the thoughtfulness and intention Inatai brings to everything—from meetings to retreats to relationships with grantees. The team’s integrity, lived experience, and commitment to inclusion is refreshing and energizing. I’m excited to keep learning from my colleagues, both personally and professionally, and to apply those lessons to better support our mission and communities. Being in a place that truly values people and intentional process makes me proud to be here.
4. Tell us about the community or communities you belong to.
I live in Port Townsend, on the traditional lands of the S’Klallam and Chemakum peoples. It’s a community of builders, makers, artists, activists, and thinkers—small but deeply connected to the wider world. I love the access to the water and mountains, the creative spirit, and the ease of meeting people. It’s a supportive place that values both independence and collective care, which makes me feel grounded and inspired every day.
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?
My community is full of quiet—and not-so-quiet—changemakers: people volunteering, organizing, creating, and caring. From global humanitarians to local foster parents, retired professionals, artists, and nonprofit founders, there’s constant movement toward good. That spirit of generosity and action, often in unexpected places, reminds me transformation is always possible.
6. Finish this sentence: The Inatai value the most resonates with me is…
Abundance
7. What is your favorite fact about Washington?
One of my favorite facts about Washington is that the Salish Sea is one of the most ecologically diverse marine ecosystems in the world—and it’s breathtaking.
8. Where is your favorite place in Washington?
I can’t pick just one—Washington is full of happy places for me. I find peace and joy in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, the wild beauty of Neah Bay, and the small-town charm of Twisp. From mountains to coastlines, this state constantly reminds me how lucky I am to live here.
9. What is the last thing you read, watched, or listened to that you would recommend? Why?
I loved The Island of Sea Women—a powerful story of our history, friendship and women’s resilience. I also recommend the This American Life episode “How to Tell a Dumb American Story,” which highlights Native families’ fight for justice and the ongoing struggle to have their voices truly heard.
10. What do you like to do when you’re not at work?
I love reading, hiking, backpacking, sailing, and creating art—whether drawing, gardening, or learning new skills like metalsmithing. You’ll often find me trying new foods, walking the beach with my pups, or relaxing with my family. I also treasure slow beach days, camping trips, and traveling to new places.
