After four years of dedicated service – the final two as Chair of the Board – Sas has stepped down from her tenure on the Board of Directors.

Sas joined us at a moment of significant transition. With a rare blend of courage and clarity, she guided the organization through significant shifts in our staffing models, culminating in the successful recruitment of our Program Manager, Chelsea. Her commitment to mentorship has been a cornerstone of her tenure; she invested deeply in our team, ensuring they had the support and institutional knowledge to thrive.

Beyond her leadership of the team, Sas shaped the path ahead. She spearheaded the 2025 Membership Survey and championed the development of our three-year Strategic Plan, a blueprint that reflects our priorities for sustainability, growth, and central among them, honouring and deepening our relationship with the Snuneymuxw. Thanks to her steady leadership, we are well positioned to fulfill on Gabriola’s role as the Isle of the Arts.

In every decision, Sas asked a singular, defining question: “Is this the best we can do for GAC and our community?” That question has quietly become our compass, one we will keep returning to long after her departure. She leaves us with an organization that is more focused, financially resilient, and deeply connected to the artists and members we serve.

“Thank you” feels inadequate for a contribution of this scale, yet it is the sincerest sentiment we can offer. We are profoundly grateful for her vision, her tireless work, and the enduring legacy she leaves behind.

We wish Sas every joy and fulfillment in her retirement, and we look forward to seeing her – this time from the front row – at the many events she helped make possible.