Isabel Alexander

This month, Friends is honored to highlight four inspiring veterans whose time on the water, both in the military and since, has deeply shaped their commitment to protecting the Salish Sea.   These leaders each play a vital role in advancing Friends’ work to Protect this Place. Ken Putney, Friends’ Data & Gifts Administrator, Joe ... read more

On May 29th, over 150 community members attended Solianna Halabisky’s senior community project—a dance showcase celebrating the beauty and singularity of the Salish Sea and island wildlife. Soli elected to donate all proceeds from the show, which featured Orcas Dance Collective, choreography by Tiffany Loney, and poetry by local high schoolers, to Friends of the ... read more

John Pierre van Dongen Board of DirectorsHe / Him / His John Pierre was born and raised in South Africa.  After graduating from Medical School and completing his military draft in the South African Defense Force, he sailed around the world for 10 years, landing in the USA where he opened a solo Family Practice ... read more

Peter Fisher Strategic AdvisorFormer Board Presidenthe/him/his Peter Fisher joined the Friends of the San Juans Board in 1987 and served as Board President from 1988 to 1991. During the 1980s, Peter played a pivotal role in shaping San Juan County’s history by imagining, initiating, and stewarding transformative “Healthy Community” projects: As President of Friends of ... read more

Sarah Hart Board of Directorsshe/her/hers

Raven Preston Board of Directors Raven brings a strong background in user research, data analysis, and customer-centric strategy development to Friends of the San Juans. With expertise in the SAFe Agile framework, Raven applies critical thinking and project management skills to address complex challenges, including those in conservation. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Raven’s academic research ... read more

Drew Harvell Science Advisor Drew earned her Ph.D. from the University of Washington in 1985 and is a researcher, professor, and author. Drew teaches at Cornell University where she is a Professor in the Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology. She also researches and teaches out of the University of Washington Friday Harbor Marine Labs. ... read more

Stephanie Solien Board of Directorsshe/her/hers Stephanie Solien is a civic activist with over 25 years of experience in politics, government, and nonprofits in Washington, D.C., and Washington State. She’s passionate about working with diverse communities and the political process to drive positive change. She currently serves on advisory boards for Western Washington University’s Salish Sea ... read more