WACT Summer Social: Celebrating the Innovation and Entrepreneurship of the Puyallup Tribe

The World Affairs Council of Tacoma and the Asia Pacific Cultural Center invite you to join us for an engaging evening of sumptuous dining food and conversation on the far-reaching economic development initiatives of the Puyallup Tribe. From local tourism and collaborations with the Port of Tacoma, to becoming an Official Legacy Supporter of FIFA’s World Cup 26™ host city Seattle (the first Indigenous people to partner with any World Cup host city), to environmental remediation and renewable energy projects -- the Puyallup Tribe’s impacts are global and diverse.

Bill Sterud joined the Tribal Council in 1978. He has served as chairman and vice chairman several times since his first election. He represented the Tribe in the landmark negotiations that led to the Puyallup Land Claims Settlement in the 1980s, which set the foundation for the Tribe’s prosperity today.

He has fought his entire life to protect natural resources, especially the Tribe’s sacred salmon. Chairman Sterud has had a hand in every aspect of the Tribe’s economic development that began in the 1980s, including its casinos, cannabis enterprise and marina. He continues to work diligently on developing the Tribe’s port property and on other enterprises. He is a proud father and grandfather. An avid UW Husky, he frequently gives welcomes to incoming students at University of Washington Tacoma and to graduates at commencement.

The World Affairs Council of Tacoma is a non-profit, non-partisan organization whose mission is to promote public understanding of world affairs, and to enhance the ability of its members to engage in a global community.

The Asia Pacific Cultural Center is a nonprofit organization that bridges communities and generations through art, culture, education, and business.