Gov. Jay Inslee says that Rep. Tana Senn of Mercer Island is the Legislature’s “go-to” person for all things youth-related.

The 41st Legislative District state representative’s involvement with youth includes chairing the Human Services, Youth and Early Learning Committee in the Washington State House of Representatives, and championing several bills and budget items directly benefiting foster youth, according to a press release.

To honor Senn (D-Mercer Island) for her vital work, Seattle-Treehouse — a nonprofit that supports foster youth statewide — named her its Legislator of the Year during its 2024 Champions Luncheon on April 23 at the Sheraton Grand Seattle.

Treehouse noted that Senn was critical in helping secure funding to expand the nonprofit’s academic support program for foster youth, according to the press release, which added that Senn also passed HB 1188 that made a fundamental change to allow foster youth to access developmental disability services while in foster care.

“To be recognized by Treehouse is a truly humbling experience,” Senn told the Reporter. “Together, we are helping foster youth feel heard and supported, as well as giving them tangible tools to improve their lives now and into adulthood. What could be better than that?”

“There aren’t enough words to tell the story of Tana’s impact on children and youth in our state,” said Dawn Rains, CEO of Treehouse.

Inslee attended the luncheon and presented Senn with the award.

“Progress doesn’t happen without leadership. (Senn) has championed every youth-based advancement in the state since she has been on the scene,” he said.

Added Andrea Davis, government relations director for Coordinated Care, the health care insurance provider for foster youth that worked closely with Senn to pass HB 1188: “We appreciate her asking the tough questions, challenging systems that don’t serve our children and families well and fighting to create a more equitable system.”