Sili Savusa, has been hired as the new Executive Director for the White Center Community Development Association. She replaces Aileen Balahadia who has been in the job for the past 8 years. Described as "a long time community advocate" Savusa also lives in White Center.

Sili Savusa will take on the new role at the CDA beginning March 19, 2012. She has been serving as the Family Center Coordinator for Southwest Youth and Family Services.

She has also served as Highline School Board Director in 2007 as the first woman of color, Position #1, and founded the first Samoan/Pacific Islander Parent Teacher Student Association in the Nation in 2002, addressing education issues impacting Pacific Islander students and their families.

“All of my work in human services and community development has allowed me to build an extensive network of important relationships,” said Ms. Savusa. “But perhaps the strongest experience I bring is as a resident of this gifted and capable community. My unique skill set, as well as my perspective as a resident whose family is impacted daily by community issues, uniquely qualifies me for this new and exciting role.”

Balahadia noted her accomplishments during her term including successful management of a multi-million dollar Making Connections comprehensive community change initiative of the Annie E Casey Foundation, the launch of an emerging White Center Promise Neighborhoods campaign, the opening of the 30-unit Unity Village affordable housing project last year, and the stewardship of core CDA programs like Family Connections and neighborhood business district revitalization.

“I couldn’t be more pleased with the choice of leadership and how well Sili embodies the values and high quality of our organization,” said Ms. Balahadia. “I want to thank the CDA board of directors, staff, volunteers, members, partners, small businesses and residents for your service and leadership and I look forward to seeing all the community’s brightest dreams achieved in the future.”

A farewell and appreciation party for Ms. Balahadia where you can also meet Ms. Savusa is set for Friday, March 23, 2012 from 4:30 to 7:00 pm at the Greenbridge Community, Educare Building (adjacent to White Center Heights Elementary) at 625 SW 100th St. Seattle, WA 98146.