Our Story
Deanna Keller
Deanna Keller, a dedicated public servant and accomplished leader, serves as the Port of Tacoma Commissioner for Position #3. First elected in 2019, she has been a driving force behind initiatives that promote economic development, environmental stewardship, and workforce training in Pierce County. Her tenure has been marked by her commitment to fostering family-wage jobs, supporting sustainable practices, and collaborating with local and state agencies to maximize resources for the community.
A Marine Corps veteran, Keller served with distinction in the “President’s Own” United States Marine Band in Washington, D.C., for five years. Her academic achievements include a bachelor’s degree from Western Washington University, a master’s degree from Northwestern University, and doctoral studies at the Catholic University of America. This robust educational foundation underscores her dedication to excellence and lifelong learning.
Before her role at the Port, Keller co-owned and led Kel-Tech Plastics Inc., a Tacoma-based custom plastics fabricator, as its CEO and president from 2008 to 2020. Her 24-year career in education, including roles as a high school teacher, district program administrator, and school principal, further highlights her diverse expertise and leadership capabilities.
Keller’s contributions extend beyond her official duties. She has actively supported STEM education in Tacoma schools, served on and is a past president of the board of trustees for Tacoma Arts Live, and participated in numerous community organizations, including the Rotary Club of Gig Harbor and the Northwest Marine Trade Association. Her leadership in the Puget Sound Zero-Emissions Truck Collaborative exemplifies her forward-thinking approach to environmental and economic challenges.
Through her unwavering dedication and multifaceted experience, Deanna Keller continues to champion initiatives that enhance the Port of Tacoma’s role as an economic engine while prioritizing sustainability and community well-being.
Deanna Keller's impressive portfolio of accomplishments could be further enriched by highlighting her leadership roles and community involvement. For instance:
**Leadership in Committees and Boards**: Keller has chaired and co-chaired several key committees, including the Port of Tacoma's Audit Committee and the Northwest Seaport Alliance's Environmental Work Group. Her active participation in these roles underscores her commitment to transparency, sustainability, and strategic development.
**Advocacy for Workforce Development**: She has been a strong advocate for workforce training and equal access to family-wage jobs in Pierce County. Her efforts in collaborating with the Pierce County Workforce Development Council and Tacoma Schools' Career & Technical Education General Advisory Committee demonstrate her dedication to empowering the local workforce.
**Environmental Stewardship**: Keller's involvement in the Puget Sound Zero-Emissions Truck Collaborative and other environmental initiatives highlights her focus on sustainable practices that exceed regulatory standards.
**Community Engagement**: Beyond her official duties, Keller has been an active member of organizations like the Tacoma Propeller Club, Rotary Club of Gig Harbor, and the Tacoma Waterfront Association. These roles reflect her deep connection to the community and her efforts to foster economic and social growth.
**Crisis Management**: Her participation in the Pierce County COVID-19 Cares Act Steering Committee showcases her ability to navigate challenges and contribute to the community's resilience during difficult times.
These additional highlights paint a fuller picture of her multifaceted contributions and her unwavering commitment to excellence in public service.
Port of Tacoma Commissioner Position #3
Deanna is an engaged community member, where she has served as the Past President of the Broadway Center for the Performing Arts Board of Directors, was part of the planning process for the Metropolitan Parks’ Peninsula Project and served on the Governance Committee for the Foss Seaport Waterway Museum.
She has a bachelor’s degree from Western Washington University and a master’s from Northwestern University and pursued a Ph.D. program at Catholic University in Washington, D.C.
Deanna lives in Gig Harbor with her husband, Steve, and their two dogs. Together, they have four daughters, two granddaughters and one grandson. Both are avid boaters.
Steve on left, Deanna in the middle and engineer of one of the MARAD ships after a tour. These two vessels are also called "ready ships" and are moored along Ruston Way.