Lake Roosevelt Forum welcomes new executive director

DAVENPORT — Lincoln County Commissioners have expressed their confidence in the new leadership at the Lake Roosevelt Forum, following the appointment of Happy Avery as the organization’s Executive Director.

Lincoln County Commissioner and Forum Board President Scott Hutsell remarked on the significance of the transition, saying, “Andy’s been with us so long, it was hard to imagine finding his replacement. When Happy met with us, we all agreed we found the needle in the haystack we were looking for. She’s got the people skills, smarts, and background to do the job.”

Avery steps into the role following the retirement announcement of longtime Executive Director Andy Dunau, who has served the Forum since 1999.

Dunau will continue to assist with program planning and transitional needs throughout the remainder of the year.

According to the Lake Roosevelt Forum’s website, the organization focuses on addressing the unique needs of Lake Roosevelt, a reservoir created to support the operational capacity at Grand Coulee Dam.

The management of the lake involves the interests of two Indian tribes, multiple federal and state agencies, and four counties, all striving to meet a set of environmental, economic and cultural needs.

Avery brings a rich background in education and environmental studies to her new role.

Since 2017, she has worked at Saint George’s School, most recently as Director of College Counseling and a humanities teacher.

Her experience also includes teaching Environmental Studies as an adjunct professor at Gonzaga University, conducting historical research at the University of Montana and focusing on U.S. Environmental History and American Indigenous studies as a graduate student fellow.

“I couldn’t be more thrilled to take on this new role,” Avery said. “Andy Dunau leaves enormous shoes to fill, but I am excited for the challenge and look forward to working hard to carry the Forum’s mission forward.”

Happy Avery can be reached at happy.avery@lrf.org.