Raven Preston

Raven Preston

Board of Directors

As a seasoned user experience researcher and communication strategist, I bring a unique blend of skills that can significantly contribute to the mission of Friends of the San Juans. My career is driven by a passion for leveraging data-driven insights to enhance user engagement and drive impactful change, which aligns closely with my personal interest in conservation and sustainable development.

Throughout my professional journey, I have honed my ability to collect and analyze user feedback, leading to substantial improvements in product design and customer satisfaction. My experience in developing customer-centric strategies within the SAFe Agile framework has equipped me with the critical thinking and project management skills necessary to address complex challenges, including those faced in conservation efforts.

My academic research, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasized the need for inclusive and culturally competent communication strategies. By integrating Black and Indigenous methodologies, I have developed a culturally responsive approach that can be applied to conservation initiatives, ensuring they are equitable and effective.

In my roles at First Command Financial Services and the Planet Venus Institute, I led initiatives that not only improved customer satisfaction but also fostered a culture of continuous improvement and innovation. These experiences have enabled me to contribute meaningfully to Friends by applying user research techniques to understand community needs and develop strategies that balances goals.

I am deeply committed to community engagement and have partnered with non-profit organizations to harness the power of research and analytics. This work not only enriches my professional experience but keeps me connected with the communities I serve. By focusing on the intersection of community and conservation, I aim to support Friends of the San Juans in creating sustainable strategies that protect our natural resources while uplifting local communities.

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From the first time we visited the islands, we were awe-struck by the natural beauty of this majestic setting: towering conifers, green meadows, beautiful lakes, forested mountains, all surrounded by the sound! Like any beautiful location, this magical environment could be “loved to death”, which is why it is so important that Friends of the San Juans is there to help us protect what we all love.

David and Geri Turnoy

members, Orcas Island