Erin Licata, Fidalgo Island — Erin is a tribal community member of the Samish Indian Nation and serves as the Madrona Institute’s Co-Director of the Coast Salish Youth Stewardship Corps. Erin also brings a background in science research to the board.
Jan Knudson, Blaine — Jan decided she wanted to join the Friends board after touring our Sucia Island restoration project. She recently retired from a long career in construction management. Jan brings experience in forest management, environmental impact analysis, land use and environmental policy development, affordable housing, water treatment facilities, and habitat restoration.
Joseph Cohen, Orcas Island — Joe’s passion is in empowering donors to increase their current and future legacy giving and enjoy the pleasure of meaningful contributions in their communities of interest. Joe is the founding principal of HoyleCohen, LLC, a San Diego-based investment advisory firm from which he retired in 2019.
Board transitions
Following best practices in board governance, diversity, equity, and inclusion, Friends is saying thank you to long-time board members Michael Riordan and Ken Burtness as they move on to other ventures. Past Presidents, San Olson and Janet Alderton, are also retiring from the board and joining our Council of Strategic Advisors to provide continued guidance and insight to Friends. It is impossible to state how much time, energy, and passion all of these board members have put into helping Friends achieve its mission and goals. We are beyond grateful for their dedication and service as board members!
