SEATTLE, WA — March 17, 2025 — The Northwest Justice Project (NJP) Board of Directors has selected Abigail Daquiz as the organization’s new Executive Director, effective today.
Following a national search, the Board enthusiastically selected Daquiz, who currently serves as NJP’s Director of Advocacy, to lead Washington state’s largest publicly funded legal aid organization. Daquiz and Hickory Gateless, NJP Deputy Director and General Counsel, have served as interim co-Executive Directors since July, following the retirement of long-time Executive Director César Torres.
“Abby brings an exceptional combination of experience in complex organizations and nonprofit legal services, a deep commitment to racial equity, and a balanced approach to leadership that values innovation and sustainability,” said Toni Hood, President of NJP’s Board of Directors. “Her vision for NJP’s future and her proven track record make her uniquely qualified to lead our organization forward.”
Daquiz joined NJP’s executive team in 2021 and has been instrumental in guiding the organization through a period of meaningful change and growth. Her leadership has strengthened NJP both internally and externally through several key initiatives focused on client services, organizational effectiveness, and strategic partnerships.
“I am honored to lead Northwest Justice Project at this critical moment,” said Daquiz. “Civil legal aid has never been more essential as Washingtonians face increasing legal challenges to housing, healthcare, financial security, and safety. I look forward to building on NJP’s legacy with our dedicated staff and partners, working with clients to remove barriers to justice and ultimately make the legal system work for everyone.”
Over the past 21 years, Daquiz has served in a variety of roles in the legal community. Prior to joining NJP’s Executive Team, she was a Senior Trial Attorney for the Office of the Solicitor at the U.S. Department of Labor. She has been an active volunteer in Washington’s legal community and served as the founding President of the Filipino Lawyers of Washington, President of the Board of the Benefits Law Center, and President of the Board of the Northwest Immigrant Rights Project. Daquiz will lead NJP into its next chapter, adapting to new challenges and strengthening the organization’s capacity to serve Washington’s most vulnerable residents, addressing civil legal needs that are basic to the wellbeing and dignity of all Washingtonians. She will also focus on strategic partnerships within the legal community, our client communities, government institutions, and funders to sustain and maximize the impact of legal aid. Hickory Gateless, who has served alongside Daquiz in interim leadership, welcomed the appointment: “Abby’s vision and leadership have already strengthened our organization during this transition period. Her dedication to our clients, strong relationships with our amazing staff, and commitment to justice make her the ideal person to guide NJP forward.”
About Northwest Justice Project
Northwest Justice Project is Washington’s largest publicly funded legal aid organization, committed to providing crucial civil legal representation and assistance to low-income and vulnerable individuals and communities throughout the state. NJP is a proud member of Washington State’s Alliance for Equal Justice.
Founded in 1995, today NJP operates 20 offices statewide. In 2024 alone, over 30,000 people across Washington saw direct improvement in their lives due to NJP’s legal advocacy. Attorneys assisted 12,895 people in legal matters, helping families stay housed, secure safety, gain financial security, preserve vital public benefits, access educational rights, and vacate unfair debt.
Specialized statewide units serve Native Americans, farmworkers, veterans, seniors, renters, and homeowners. NJP provides language and sign interpreters for people needing assistance to access its services. NJP operates WashingtonLawHelp, an on-line legal information and self-help resource visited by more than one million Washingtonians annually.
NJP’s over 300 staff also influence broader change through appeals, amicus briefs, and informing lawmakers about the impacts of legislation on vulnerable communities.
For more information contact: Bee Wuethrich, Communications Director(206) 707-0886 bee.wuethrich@nwjustice.org Visit www.nwjustice.org