Washington Retail Association board members gathered in festive Bellevue for our Annual Meeting, an energizing mix of important business, legislative planning, and a heartfelt celebration of leadership.
Welcome to Our Newly Elected Board Members. During the business meeting, members approved the 2026 board slate. We are pleased to welcome:
New Board Member:
• Katherina (Katie) Tinney, Walgreens
Renewing Board Members:
• Andy Ryder, Shur-Kleen Car Wash
• Blake Garfield, Bedrooms & More
• Brenda Snyder, CVS Health
• Chauncey Rice, Target
• Deborah Herron, Walmart
• Karin Holt, Best Buy
2025 Executive Officers:
• Opio Dupree, Macy’s – Board Chair
• Eric Douglas, The Home Depot – Vice Chair
• Krista Beck, Jerry’s Auto Supply – Treasurer
Key Updates and Discussions. The Board reviewed and approved the 2025/26 WR budget, the annual financial audit, and program updates, including a positive outlook from Brown & Brown WR’s third party administer of the Worker’s Comp Retro program and an exciting preview of the redesigned WR website and Membership Guide.
The Policy and Government Affairs team provided a deep dive into the 2026 Legislative Priorities, highlighting key issues that will drive next year’s short session. Top areas of focus include:
- Public safety and organized retail crime
- Workforce and employment law policies
- Environmental and EPR proposals
- Technology, AI, and consumer data privacy
- Fiscal and tax legislation impacting retailers
Local and state leaders, including Bellevue Councilmember Jared Nieuwenhuis and several key legislators, joined the meeting to discuss public safety, budget pressures, and their upcoming legislative priorities.
Honoring CEO Renée Sunde. One of the highlights of the event was a special reception honoring retiring CEO Renée Sunde. Renée was recognized with an award for her exceptional eight years of service, steady leadership, and dedication to strengthening Washington’s retail industry. Her impact has been tremendous, and members celebrated her with heartfelt speeches, warm applause, and appreciation.
Looking Toward 2026. The meeting set a strong foundation for the year ahead, with board direction guiding WR’s advocacy, industry priorities, and leadership transition. We look forward to seeing board members again at our February 4, 2026, meeting in Olympia, followed by the annual Legislative Reception at the Lord Mansion.
