Recognizing Jay and the Heritage Outreach Team
Over the past four years, Jay Baersten has driven the success of Washington’s Semiquincentennial Committee and launched America 250 as a unifying, bipartisan statewide initiative. She built a network of more than 850 partner organizations, expanded access to history and civics education, and secured major media sponsorships and federal funding for local storytelling and participation. Jay created an inclusive framework that elevates diverse voices and connects communities, schools, cultural institutions, legislators, and state agencies. Through thoughtful relationship-building and clear communication, she has established a lasting foundation for civic and cultural engagement across Washington.
Jay wanted to share:
“I was honored to have my name on the nomination and to receive the award, but 250 has definitely been a substantial effort over many years from the whole Heritage Outreach team—as well as many others across our agency. And of course this work doesn’t happen without the tireless efforts of Lorraine Ralston.”
Recipients of the Governor’s Outstanding Leadership Award at the Governor’s Mansion in October 2026.
The Heritage Outreach team from the Washington State Historical Society poses for a photo at the Moments that Made US exhibit ribbon-cutting at the State Capitol Building in the Office of the Secretary of State.
Jay Baersten holds the ribbon for Secretary of State Steven Hobbs and Lieutenant Governor Denny Heck at the Moments that Made US exhibit ribbon-cutting at the State Capitol Building.
Governor’s Outstanding Leadership Awards
