The National Association of State Directors of Veterans Affairs (NASDVA) is an organization with a history dating back to 1946. In the aftermath of World War II many veterans earned State and Federal benefits which required coordinated efforts to assure that veterans received these entitlements. Thus, states developed a Department or Agency specifically to manage veterans’ affairs and carry out the responsibility for veteran services and program.

The NASDVA members represent all fifty states, the District of Columbia, American Samoa, Guam, Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. Nationally, we are the second largest provider of services to veterans and our roles continue to expand.

State Directors as leaders of governmental agencies are tasked by their respective Governors, State Boards and/or Commissions with a the responsibility to address the needs of veterans regardless of age, gender, era of service, military branch or circumstance of service. Collectively, states contribute more than $6 billion annually in of our nation's veterans and their families. We are connected by the bonds of honorable service and united by our common goal to make a positive difference in the lives of our veterans.

Alfie Alvarado-Ramos - President, Washington

Alfie Alvarado-Ramos was elected as the 2018-2019 National Association of Directors of Veterans Affairs President and serves as the Director of Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs. The Department is the statewide advocate for our veterans earned benefits and services.

Alfie was born in Puerto Rico and served 22 years on active duty retiring as the Command Sergeant Major of Madigan Army Medical Center and Troop Command, Joint Base Lewis McChord.

As Director, she is a member of Governor Jay Inslee's Executive Cabinet and chairs the Washington State Military Transition Council. In this capacity her agency leads statewide efforts for the seamless transition of members of the military to Washington State's communities. She also serves as lead for the Governor's Healthy and Safe Communities Goal Council which is charged with fostering the health of Washingtonians from a healthy start to a safe and supported future.

Alfie is the recipient of the Army Legion of Merit Medal and Military Order of Medical Merit and state and national awards that include the Governor's Distinguished Management Leadership Award and the Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary's Leadership Award.