Mason brings more than a decade of nonprofit leadership experience, with a career grounded in mission-driven organizations, strategic fundraising, and cross-sector collaboration

VANCOUVER — Friends of Vancouver Lake announced Monday the appointment of Adrienne Mason as its founding executive director, marking a major milestone in the organization’s evolution and long-term commitment to the stewardship of Vancouver Lake and its watershed.

Since its founding in 2017, Friends of Vancouver Lake has grown from a volunteer-led effort into what many consider a trusted community voice for the protection and enhancement of one of Southwest Washington’s most important natural resources. Devan Rostorfer, Clean Water Division manager for Clark County Public Works, stated, “Friends of Vancouver Lake has been a key partner at the local, state, and federal levels by helping raise awareness about harmful algae bloom challenges in Vancouver Lake. Their advocacy has helped bring critical funding resources to the County to identify potential solutions for lake water quality.”

County Councilor Glen Yung echoed that sentiment, sharing, “Friends of Vancouver Lake has laid important groundwork through phases one and two of the lake management plan. I am excited to see the organization move into its next stage with the addition of an executive director.”

This milestone was made possible through the leadership and generosity of Michael Lynch and the Lynch Foundation, whose investment in Friends of Vancouver Lake provided critical support to establish the organization’s first executive director role.

Lynch reflected, “We are so excited to help this organization alongside all the various stakeholders with the goal of elevating the health and recreational opportunities of Vancouver Lake. We believe Adrienne’s skill set and capabilities will elevate Friends of Vancouver Lake for all of Southwest Washington.”

This commitment represents a meaningful vote of confidence in the organization’s mission and future impact.

Mason brings more than a decade of nonprofit leadership experience, with a career grounded in mission-driven organizations, strategic fundraising, and cross-sector collaboration. Known for her ability to convene diverse stakeholders and translate shared vision into action, she joins Friends of Vancouver Lake at a pivotal moment, building on the significant progress achieved through Phase One and Phase Two of the Vancouver Lake Management Plan and supporting the continued forward movement of that work.

Local leaders echoed the significance of the appointment. Wil Fuentes, Clark County Councilor, shared his support, noting that “Adrienne’s experience building strong community partnerships and her years of work within mission-driven organizations will strengthen ongoing efforts to protect Vancouver Lake for future generations.”

Port Commissioner Eric LaBrant echoed this sentiment, stating, “Vancouver Lake is a complex ecosystem that will take collaboration to restore. Adrienne has what it takes to build those community partnerships.”

“This is a rare and exciting opportunity,” said Mason. “Friends of Vancouver Lake has built a strong foundation through years of committed volunteer leadership and partnership. I’m deeply grateful to Michael Lynch and the Lynch Foundation for their investment in this role and their belief in the future of this organization. Stepping into this position is about honoring what has been built while helping shape what comes next, deepening collaboration, strengthening capacity, and advancing durable solutions that reflect how much this community values Vancouver Lake.”

The Board of Directors emphasized that hiring a founding executive director represents an intentional investment in the organization’s future. With Mason’s leadership, Friends of Vancouver Lake is poised to build on years of meaningful work, strengthening partnerships and expanding its impact moving forward. As executive director, Mason will lead organizational development, fundraising, and partnership strategy, working closely with the Board, public agencies, and community stakeholders to advance shared stewardship goals for Vancouver Lake.

About Friends of Vancouver Lake

Friends of Vancouver Lake is a community-based nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting and enhancing Vancouver Lake through collaboration, advocacy, and partnership. The organization works with public agencies, community groups, and regional stakeholders to support long-term environmental health, responsible recreation, and community engagement around the lake.

For more information, visit www.vancouverlake.org.