Tribal departments see leadership changes

The Tribe’s Human Resources and Education departments are experiencing changes in leadership.

Human Resources Director Patrick Dempsey is leaving Tribal employment at the end of October to become the executive director of Human Resources at the Quinault Beach Casino and Resort in Ocean Shores, Wash.

Dempsey, who oversaw the merging of Spirit Mountain Casino and Tribal governmental human resources functions, has worked for the Grand Ronde Tribe since January 2013.

General Manager David Fullerton announced via e-mail on Thursday, Oct. 4, that former Human Resources Department staff member Daphney Colton will take over as interim Human Resources director while the Tribe begins recruiting for a new director.

“I want to thank Patrick for his contribution to the organization and wish him well in his future endeavors,” Fullerton said. “Patrick did a great job leading our HR team.”

In addition, Education Department Manager Leslie Riggs resigned in September after working for the Tribe for more than 12 years in the Social Services and Education departments.

Higher Education Manager Bryan Langley is the acting head of the Education Department while the Tribe recruits for the open position.