Caitlein Ryan of the Cannabis Alliance on Shaping a Vital, Thriving Cannabis Industry

Caitlein Ryan holds a PhD from Arizona State University, with a focus on arts education, qualitative research, and social justice. Caitlein has been the director of the Washington State Cannabis Alliance since 2020. She is a leading advocate for sensible adult-use cannabis policy, collaborating with businesses, lawmakers, regulators, and community stakeholders to shape Washington State’s cannabis industry and support national reform efforts. Under her leadership, The Cannabis Alliance is focused on expanding patient access, legalizing home cultivation, creating pathways for cannabis hospitality and social use, and ensuring small and independent businesses can thrive. The organization also champions sustainable practices, equitable licensing, and science-based regulation, while pushing for fair enforcement and more transparent governance.