In 2012, Quynh Pham joined the very first cohort of the Seattle Department of Neighborhoods’ People’s Academy for Community Engagement (PACE), a program designed to help community members understand how city government works and how to navigate it to create change.
More than a decade later, she returns to the department in a new role: Director.
It’s a full-circle moment that reflects the true spirit of the Department of Neighborhoods itself. When community members are given the tools, access, and support to lead, they don’t just participate in government, they help shape it.
As the department celebrates is 35th anniversary this year, Quynh’s story is a powerful reminder of what has always been at the heart of the Department of Neighborhoods: investing in people, supporting community leadership, and building stronger connections between residents and their city government.
Quynh brings more than 14 years of experience in community development, local policy, and equitable investment. Most recently, she served as Executive Director of Friends of Little Saigon, where she championed the cultural and economic vitality of one of Seattle’s more iconic neighborhoods while advocating for small businesses and community-led initiatives.
Throughout her career, Quynh has focused on strengthening neighborhoods by investing in the people who know them best. Her work has advanced BIPOC-led initiatives and supported culturally rooted community development across the city. She also serves on the boards of Historic South Downtown and the Crescent Collaborative, collaborating with community leaders working to shape Seattle’s future.
A first-generation immigrant and mother of two, Quynh brings both personal perspective and professional experience to her leadership. She is driven by a commitment to building a culturally rich, welcoming, and accessible city for the next generation.
As the Department of Neighborhoods marks 35 years of community partnership, we are excited to welcome Director Pham and look forward to the next chapter of connecting people, strenghthening neighhorhoods, and ensuring residents have a voice in policy making and decisions that impact Seattle communities.
Do you have an upcoming community event in which you would like to invite Director Pham (like, for Neighbor Day, perhaps)? Email Iona.McKenzie@seattle.gov to inquire about availability and start planning today!
