Soroptimist awards help women help others

Award winners were celebrated during the Notable Women Lunch on April 27. Soroptimist International of Friday Harbor holds this lunch annually to honor the notable women of history and give tribute to their award winners.

“I am a Soroptimist because of these awards,” President Becki Day said, opening the event. “This is what it’s all about, helping women and girls.”

Soroptimist Diane Sibert presented the Educational Opportunity Awards to Madison Miller and Lilah Savien. The award helps women overcome financial difficulties and better their lives through education and training. The recipient may use the cash award to offset any costs of higher education, including such things as tuition, books, childcare, and transportation.

“The story of Lilah Savien is one of strength and courage,” Sibert said as she presented the award.

Savien will be continuing her education with the goal of providing care, support and assistance to survivors of domestic abuse and sexual assault.

Savien told the Journal later that as she was trying to heal from her own experiences, she was unable to find a place that fit her needs, a place that focused on healing and making her better without signing away freedoms. “It inspired me and I thought, maybe one day I can create that space for others.”

What that looks like exactly, and whether it uses some combination of music, art or equine therapy remains to be seen, but she is interested in learning about the variety of methods in healing from trauma. Plenty of schooling lies ahead, whatever the future brings her, and Soroptimist Educational Award will assist in those steps toward her goals.

Miller was not able to attend the luncheon but also expressed gratitude to Soroptimist.

Art has been her passion, and she has always used it as a form to communicate with the people she loves. Through her education, Miller hopes to use art to help others.

“We know with her kind heart and talent, she is already helping many people,” Sibert said.

Soroptimist Kathleen Doran presented the Fellowship Award to Friday Harbor Elementary and Middle School teacher Kandace Calandra. This award is presented to a San Juan County woman who is returning to school for postgraduate study in an accredited college or university leading to an advanced degree (Masters or Ph.D.). This award is open to local women established in business or one of the professions who wish to undertake advanced study at an accredited college or university. Candidates should hold a Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree and present a study plan worthy of an advanced degree that will enhance her business or profession.

“She is a natural [teacher], kind and understanding while still holding kids accountable,’ Doran said.

Calandra became emotional while thanking Soroptimist.

“Thank you from the bottom of my heart. I love working with kids, and this will further that,” Calandra said.

The Ruby Award is a special award that recognizes special women in the community, who are not Soroptimist but who, through her professional or personal efforts, is making an extraordinary difference in the lives of local women and/or girls. This year, Soroptimist International of Friday Harbor gave tribute to Rachelle Radonski, manager of the Friday Harbor Foodbank.

Prior to her work at the Food Bank, Soroptimist Eileen Frazer explained, Radonski was a dance teacher. “That makes a lot of sense with everything she now choreographs,” Frazer said.

During her time at the food bank, Meals on Wheels began, a summer lunches program was instigated for children in need, and WSDA grants were procured to assist in purchasing fresh produce, and coordinating the volunteers, just to name a few accomplishments.

The recent Food Bank expansion has made her incredibly proud, according to Frazer. It has allowed the nonprofit to provide for 115 households during the week, and 190 on Saturdays, plus 75 more who shop online.

They now have a refrigerated area, allowing for increased fresh produce.

Soroptimist International of Friday Harbor donated $500 to the Food Bank to recognize Radonoski and her tremendous efforts.

Long time Soroptimist Emily Geyman provided an inspirational talk. She began by reflecting on the loss of two incredible Soroptimists, Robin Jacobson and Fiona Norris. Besides being Soroptimists, Jacobson was an active volunteer and former President of the San Juan Historical Museum and Society, and Norris was the Director of the San Juan Nature Institute and a Master Gardener.

“Both these individuals will be remembered fondly for their contributions to the community,” Geyeman said.

Geyeman continued by discussing notable women of the past and present, quoting author and poet Maya Angelou who said “I have learned that people will forget what you said, forget what you did, but they never forget how you made them feel.”