Submitted by San Juan Island School District

The San Juan Island School District nominated Soroptimists International of Friday Harbor for the Washington Association of School Administrators Region 108 Community Leadership Award for Spring 2018.

WASA annually accepts nominations for community leadership awards to recognize and honor individuals and organizations who support public education. Criteria for the award include student benefit, leadership, motivation, success, cooperation and coordination with local school districts, recognition by others and history of service.

As a service club, Soroptimist International of Friday Harbor enjoys an outstanding reputation for its strength of membership and fundraising abilities through event sponsorship and celebrations. To the benefit of local students, Soroptimists have consistently demonstrated enthusiastic support for education.

Besides providing scholarships and awards to women and girls pursuing education, this organization supports San Juan Island agencies who assist families and women in crisis. Soroptimists have raised and donated over $40,000 and thousands of volunteer hours each year to community projects on San Juan Island.

This past winter, the Soroptimists sponsored and helped organize a school and community prerelease viewing of the critically acclaimed documentary “Dolores” based on the inspirational life of activist Dolores Huerta, co-founder of the National Farmworkers Association.

In addition to the viewing, Soroptimists facilitated a visit to the island by Huerta, who shared her experiences and spoke about her current work with the Dolores Huerta Foundation. Through two appearances, one for students and one for community members, Huerta inspired literally hundreds of local activists, young and old.

Accepting the award at a May 3 luncheon at Burlington’s Skagit Golf and Country Club was Marcy Hahn, president-elect of Soroptimist International of Friday Harbor, and member Robyn Jacobson of the Soroptimist public awareness committee. They were joined by Danna Diaz, SJISD superintendent, and Barbara Bevens, SJISD Board Director

“Please join me in celebrating this dedicated and energetic organization,” said Diaz. “On behalf of our school community, we would like to say thank you!”