New State Archivist Announced

News Release
Issued: August 17, 2001

Olympia -- We are pleased to announce and welcome Jerry Handfield as Washington’s new State Archivist. Handfield, who served as Indiana State Archivist until accepting this position, joins the state of Washington with more than 25 years of experience in archives, history, and records management.

“Jerry Handfield is a perfect addition for the state of Washington,” said Secretary of State Sam Reed. “He has the innovation and talent we need to continue the fine work of our State Archives Division and pioneer new ground.”

The State Archivist is responsible for documenting the history of state government and ensuring records created by Washington's state and local government offices are efficiently managed and stored.

“This office and Handfield’s leadership are extremely important to everyday citizens,” said Reed. “Everything we do in the State Archives Division preserves the past, keeps government honest, and ensures tax dollars for records management are well spent. Jerry Handfield is the right person for the job.”

Handfield has also served on the National Association of Government Archives and Records Administrators and as a State Coordinator for the National Historical Publications and Records Commission, which encourage and improve the documentation of United States History.