The road to Artist Point (the final section of SR 542) and Highway 20 (starting at Ross Dam Trailhead) are both closed for the season.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
November 12, 2024

MEDIA CONTACT:
Suzi Tanski
suzit@sustainableconnections.org 

New Hires and Promotions Will Expand Sustainable Connections’ Impact in Northwest Washington 

Sustainable Connections (SC) is thrilled to celebrate new positions and a new leadership team. These strategic changes will strengthen the organization's capacity to fulfill its new mission to build community, strengthen food systems, catalyze climate solutions, and expand access to housing in Northwest Washington.

“Sustainable Connections is excited to welcome new team members and celebrate the well-deserved promotions of some of our long-term leaders," shares Derek Long, Executive Director. "We are confident in the positive impact these talented individuals will have on the community we all love."    

Jenna Deane, formerly the Towards Zero Waste Program Manager, has been promoted to Program Director. She will work with industry professionals, government entities, partners, and program staff to advance Sustainable Connections’ new mission and deepen the impact of its diverse sustainability initiatives. 

Delaney Skordal, who previously served as Grants Manager, has been promoted to the position of Development Director. In this new role, Delaney will focus on growing individual donors and securing foundation grants. This strategic change will allow SC to remain agile and innovative in addressing the needs of Northwest Washington and its future generations. 

Matt Pelan is the new Finance and Grants Manager. Matt brings valuable experience from his work with community-focused organizations, along with an extensive background in accounting and fiscal management. In his new role, he will oversee the financial health of the organization, which is crucial as SC continues to expand and grow its programs. 

Sustainable Connections welcomes Suzi Tanski as the new Communications and Development Manager. Recently relocated from Fairbanks, Alaska, Suzi brings a wealth of experience in strategic communications, marketing, and public affairs. She is passionate about community-focused initiatives and is ready to develop strategies to support organizational and fundraising goals. 

[PHOTO CAPTION AND CREDITS: Left to right: Jenna Deane, Suzi Tanski & Java, Matt Pelan and Delaney Skordal. Photo provided by Sustainable Connections.]

These changes highlight Sustainable Connections’ commitment to its new mission and strategic plan. Now in its 24th year, this community-focused non-profit is excited about its future and the positive impact these new team members and leadership roles will have on our community.   

        We acknowledge that Whatcom County is located on the unceded territory of the Coast Salish Peoples. They cared for the lands that included what we’d call the Puget Sound region, Vancouver Island and British Columbia since time immemorial. This gives us the great obligation and opportunity to learn how to care for our surrounding areas and all the natural and human resources we require to live. We express our deepest respect and gratitude for our indigenous neighbors, the Lummi Nation and Nooksack Tribe, for their enduring care and protection of our shared lands and waterways.
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