Elise Cope | Communications and Outreach Director

Elise Cope

Communications and Outreach Director
she/her/hers

Elise Cope is a dedicated advocate for both people and the planet, leveraging her expertise in information design and digital storytelling to construct bridges of understanding. Her passion for environmental stewardship, community empowerment, and social equity drives her work as the Communications and Outreach Director at Friends of the San Juans. Elise joined Friends in 2022, with over 15 years of experience in the Seattle area nonprofit sector. She has traveled the globe extensively by foot and boat, and has sailed the Pacific Northwest from Alaska to Seattle. She resides in Friday Harbor where she enjoys connecting with other artists, sailing, and exploring the gems of the Salish Sea with her two sons.

It wasn’t until 1979 that San Juan County got a comprehensive growth plan and that was largely due to the Friends of the San Juan’s being there to advocate for the shoreline and the ecosystem. Since then, there have been constant waves of pressure by developers. Friends have risen each time, fighting to protect this fragile and precious place.

Liza Michaelson

member, San Juan Island