Submitted by The San Juan Island Community Foundation

The Women’s Fund of the San Juan Island Community Foundation is proud to announce that islander Susan Mazzarella has been selected as the 2025 recipient of the Joyce L. Sobel Achievement Award, an honor recognizing women whose leadership and service have made a lasting difference in our community.

Mazzarella, who moved to San Juan Island in 2005, has dedicated the past two decades to strengthening local organizations through service and leadership. She has served as board president of the San Juan Community Theatre, the Animal Protection Society–Friday Harbor and the San Juan Public School Foundation. She has also contributed her time as a board member for Spring Street School, FANS of Island Rec and the Mullis Center. In addition, she has been an active member of the Women’s Fund, connecting with other women to learn about the nonprofit network and support local causes.

By receiving this award, Mazzarella joins a distinguished group of past honorees, including Dr. Carolyn Haugen, Dr. Mariluz Villa, Jennifer Armstrong and Barbara Cable; all women whose dedication has enriched island life in countless ways.

The award was created to honor the legacy of Joyce L. Sobel, who moved to San Juan Island in 1975 and became a tireless advocate for children and families. Sobel was instrumental in forming the Family Umbrella Group, served in the League of Women Voters and the San Juan Prevention Coalition, and helped at the local food bank. Her most enduring contribution was establishing the Family Resource Center, now known as the Joyce L. Sobel Family Resource Center. Sobel also brought her energy and vision to the Women’s Fund itself, where she inspired other women to give generously of their time, talent and resources.

The Women’s Fund of the San Juan Island Community Foundation was founded in 2003 as a collective of island women committed to philanthropy. Each member contributes a minimum of $100 annually to a pooled fund, and together they select local nonprofits to support. This Giving Circle allows members to make a greater impact than they could individually, while also building community connections. Membership is open to everyone.

The Women’s Fund is honored to recognize Susan Mazzarella with the 2025 Joyce L. Sobel Achievement Award, celebrating her extraordinary dedication, leadership and service.