Mitchell Chen and Communications Director Diana Huynh having lunch together in 2021 during his first stint at Inatai Foundation.
Mitchell Chen (he/him) returns to Inatai Foundation as Benefits & Payroll Administrator. We asked Mithcell 10 questions to learn more about his background, community, and how she connects to our work at Inatai.
Name:Mitchell Chen
Pronouns: he/him
Role: Benefits and Payroll Administrator
Home: King County
1. What are three words that describe you?
Thoughtful, authentic, caring
2. What is the “long story short” of how you landed at Inatai?
I was previously the Human Resources Manager at Inatai for 4.5 years and deeply appreciated our values and commitment to racial justice. It was a unique privilege and joy to be at a workplace where we were actively encouraged to think creatively about how to apply our values to our work. Many organizations exclude HR, finance, and operations from their values-based work, and I have found Inatai to be a leader in this space in all the best ways.
3. What excites you most about being part of Team Inatai?
I am excited about the people and community partners I get to work with! Everyone I encounter is talented, knowledgeable, and passionate about their communities. I’m always learning new things from others and am impressed by how authentic and down-to-earth our team and community members are.
4. Tell us about the community or communities you belong to.
I will always have a soft spot for the LGBTQ+ community in Washington state. Friends and community members took me in and mentored me at a point in my life where I needed it the most. I’m a stronger person today because of strangers (now friends) who showed me unreserved kindness and love.
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?
When I grew up, my family spent a lot of time around other families from Taiwan. I had a community before I even knew what the term was. My parents would host dinners and cook food when others needed a bit of help. When I think of community, I think of those moments, ones that are born of a genuine desire to see your friends and family be happy.
6. Finish this sentence: The Inatai value the most resonates with me is…
Racial justice
7. What is your favorite fact about Washington?
Washington State Ferries is the largest ferry system in the United States and the second largest in the world. I grew up watching and riding the ferries and have ridden every route they offer.
8. Where is your favorite place in Washington?
My family would camp at Deception Pass every year. The smell of the ocean and sight of rocky beaches will always have a special place in my heart.
9. What is the last thing you read, watched, or listened to that you would recommend? Why?
I would recommend reading the menu at Triumph Valley in Renton and getting some delicious dim sum.
10. What do you like to do when you’re not at work?
I enjoy spending time with friends and trying out at least one new restaurant every week.
