Geri Beardsley
WSTA Executive Director

Geri Beardsley joined the WSTA staff as director on December 14, 2009.  Geri was formerly with the Office of Financial Management (OFM) as Transportation Budget Assistant to the Governor.  Prior to OFM, Geri served for twelve years in legislative policy analysis with the Seattle City Council, the last four years in a supervisory role. She graduated from University of Washington School of Law and is a member of the Washington State Bar Association.

Richard DeRock, WSTA Past Board President and Link Transit General Manager, said “I am very excited to have Geri join us at WSTA as our new leader. Her energy and vision will assist our member transit agencies navigate these difficult times as they deliver the vital public transportation services necessary to achieve the community, environmental and mobility goals of our state.”

“As Executive Director for the Washington State Transit Association, I will help shape policies and strategies, as well as lead initiatives, for the state’s 29 transit systems, which include buses, vanpools, light rail, etc.” Beardsley stated. “This is a critical time for Washington State’s transit agencies as we initiate and participate in discussions about the role of public transportation in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, vehicle miles traveled, and the need for continued federal and state funding. This is an exciting opportunity for me and I look forward to working with our many partners on behalf of WSTA.”

You can contact Geri at geri@watransit.com. 

Megan Abbott
Member Services Manager

Megan joined WSTA on December 5, 2011. She will be serving as the Member Services Manager and will be filling the role being vacated by Michelle Parvinen. Megan comes to WSTA after working for over five years at The Nonprofit Center in Tacoma. She has strong experience in member services and event planning, including seminars and statewide conferences, and is excited to apply those skills to this position.

Megan’s helpful and welcoming attitude and strong organizational skills are well received with those she works within the community. Geri Beardsley, WSTA Executive Director, said “Megan comes highly recommended as a team player that is professional, well-organized, motivated, places a high priority on customer service, personable, and has a great sense of humor. We think she will be the perfect addition to our team.”

Megan has lived in Washington for 6 years and is originally from South Carolina where she graduated from the University of South Carolina. Even though she has lived here for a while, she still hasn’t explored all the areas of the state and is looking forward to visiting different transit systems.

Megan's email address is megan@watransit.com.

Wendi accepted the position of administrative assistant/bookkeeper on December 1, 2004. She brings to WSTA administrative expertise gained during her employment with the Department of Revenue, Department of Licensing, and Department of Corrections.

Wendi's positive attitude and outgoing personality are definite assets to the association.  Her attention to detail and systematic approach makes her a vital member of the WSTA team.

You can reach Wendi at wendi@watransit.com. 

Amanda began work on April 27, 2007.  Amanda recently earned her BA in Environmental Economics. Before coming to WSTA, she worked for Macy's Northwest as Sales Associate and as a Student Assistant at Capital Planning, Design, and Construction at SFSU.  She assists with various tasks around the office eagerly accepting any task that comes her way. Amanda provides relief to the rest of the staff. 

You can reach Amanda at amanda@watransit.com.