You’re invited
Meet & Mingle With a Mission
June 19, 2026
↓
Joe Cohen & Martha Farish and
Dr. John Pierre & Annette van Dongen invite you to Meet & Mingle with a Mission with Friends of the San Juans.
Be the first to hear how Friends of the San Juans led regional nonprofits to challenge one of the region’s largest energy companies—and why the future of the Salish Sea and our islands may depend on moments like these. Learn about the upcoming restoration project and how it will impact the environment.
Meet Eva, Magali and Tina
Eva Schulte
Executive Director
During her career, Eva has driven lasting and systemic change throughout the social sector for the health and dignity of people and our planet. Eva previously directed impact investing and economic opportunity in support of American Indian communities through her work as vice president for Travois, a Best for the World™ Certified B Corporation. Prior to that, Eva was president and CEO of a community-based organization in the heartland that achieved regional and national public policy victories to move human dignity to the center of public life.
Magali Cota
Legal Director
As an environmental law attorney, Magali has worked closely with communities to protect their natural spaces, informing them of their rights within an evolving legal system and holding corporations and government agencies accountable. She deeply values Friends of the San Juans’ commitment to community voice and its understanding of the inextricable link between humanity and nature.
Tina Whitman
Senior Science Director
For over three decades, Tina Whitman has been a steadfast leader in marine science, shoreline restoration, and protection. Growing up on an island herself, she understands the intrinsic relationship between people and place. Her work embodies the organization’s commitment to protecting island communities and shoreline ecosystems through science-based action and collaborative partnerships.
Please gather with us in the Victoria Room at Outlook Inn.
Enjoy hors d’oeuvres, wine, and non-alcoholic beverages as we gather with fellow islanders, advocates, and supporters who share a commitment to protecting the Salish Sea and the communities that depend on it.
"Come curious. Leave inspired. Together, we'll explore what's possible when a community stands up for the waters, wildlife, and future of the Salish Sea."
5:00–5:30 PM— Meet, Mingle & Explore
Step beneath the surface and immerse yourself in our underwater world through an extraordinary virtual reality experience. Meet Eva, Tina, Magali, and Ayn—your island ambassador—along with Friends’ supporters, board members, and community leaders. Connect with neighbors and new friends while taking in the beauty and hospitality of the Outlook Inn.
5:30–6:30 PM—Stories of Impact & What Comes Next
Be among the first to hear the story behind a recent David-and-Goliath legal victory against AltaGas—a hard-won success that has the potential to make the Salish Sea safer for endangered orcas, coastal ecosystems, and waterfront communities.
We'll also share what's ahead: the growing challenge of increased vessel traffic carrying toxic chemicals through the San Juan Islands, and the work underway to protect these waters.
Please RSVP by June 13th.
This gathering is intentionally sized to encourage meaningful conversation with Friends' scientists, advocates, and leadership team. Our last Meet & Mingle filled quickly, so we encourage you to reserve your place by RSVPing early. For questions, please reach out to our island ambassador Ayn Gailey at Friends@sanjuans.org.
Winged sea slugs are found in the seagrass beds of the Pacific Northwest. Photo by Jen Strongin
Protect this place.
For 47 years, Friends of the San Juans has worked to safeguard the shorelines, waters, wildlife, and communities that make this place extraordinary. Whether you choose to volunteer, take action on important environmental issues, attend events, or make a financial contribution, there is a place for you in this work.
Can’t make it to this event? You can still support Friends’ work to protect our seas, farms, and forests.
Make an Impact Today