Please join us in congratulating the San Juan Preservation Trust’s 2026 Climate Leadership Scholarship winners: Flora Vaught and Matthew Van Dyck!

Flora and Matthew will each receive a $4,000 scholarship, awarded in two $2,000 increments for each of their first two years of college. The intent of the scholarships is to recognize and encourage students in our island communities who have demonstrated extraordinary commitment, effort, and imagination in addressing the issue of climate change, and who plan a course of collegiate study that equips them to advance their climate leadership goals.

Flora Vaught will attend Harvard University this fall, where she will pursue a degree in Molecular and Cellular Biology. She hopes to continue serving as a steward and advocate for the environment throughout her life.

Matthew Van Dyck is excited to be heading to the University of Pennsylvania in August, where he is a candidate for the Huntsman program, pursuing a dual BA/BS degree in International Studies and Economics offered jointly by the College of Arts and Sciences and Wharton.

A Surprise Honor from Orcas Island High School

In a wonderful twist, after deciding our Climate Leadership Scholarship winners, we found ourselves on the receiving end of some incredible youth generosity.

In June, Preservation Trust staff attended Orcas Island High School’s (OIHS) Celebration of Success. Through the Orcas Island Community Foundation’s Youth Philanthropy Program, the OIHS senior class was given the opportunity to invest back into local organizations that they felt supported their growth and community.

Out of $10,000 in total senior class funds awarded that morning, the Preservation Trust received a $1,000 donation from the OIHS Class of 2026. We are deeply honored to be recognized by these inspiring young adults as they set off to do great things in the wider world.

To the Class of 2026: thank you, congratulations, and best of luck on your next big adventure!