Meet Our Leadership

Lois Downy
President
I am honored to serve as President of Soroptimist International of Tahoe Sierra (SITS) this year as we celebrate our 50th anniversary! Since our club was founded in March 1977, we have been dedicated to improving the lives of women and youth in our community and around the world. Over the past five decades, we have awarded scholarships and financial assistance to thousands of women and young people pursuing education as a pathway to a brighter future.
As a former teenage mother who pursued higher education later in life, I understand firsthand the challenges of balancing parenthood, work, and school. I am deeply grateful for the encouragement I received from family, friends, and teachers, as well as the financial support and scholarships provided by philanthropic organizations and community groups like Soroptimist. Those investments changed the course of my life, and they inspire me to help create the same opportunities for others.
In addition to scholarships and education awards, our club provides books and school supplies to elementary students, leadership and STEM programs for middle school youth, and career guidance and life-skills support for young adults. We also partner with organizations locally and around the world that address food and housing insecurity, mental health, human trafficking prevention, arts education, and many other critical needs. We believe in a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential. By giving our time, our resources, and our hearts, we are helping build that future together.
If you’re looking for a meaningful way to give back to your community, I invite you to join us. While we take our mission seriously, we also have a great deal of fun along the way. Soroptimist offers opportunities to build lasting friendships, develop leadership skills, continue learning, and make a lasting impact. Together, we can strengthen the lives of women and youth throughout the Tahoe region and beyond.
2026-2027 Board of Directors
President
Lois Downy
President Elect
Kim Valverde
Rec. Secretary
Julie Cary
Corresponding Sec
Nancy Muller
Treasurer 1 Year
Andrea Solis
Treasurer 2 Year
Jean Bergner
Director 1-Year
Elizabeth Stork
Director 2-Year
Lisa Huard
Delegate 1-Year
Lydia Rogers
Delegate 2-Year
Shelly Martinez
Past President
Paula Peterson
Parliamentarian
Wendy David


