Meet Our Leadership

Lois Downy

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

 

Board at Installation 2026-2027