Lee Badovinus

Lee Badovinus is being honored with the Jan Holmes Award for 2025 for her outstanding contributions to Sound Water Stewards (SWS) and its signature education programs, and her leadership in the Salish Sea Pigeon Guillemot network.

This award, presented by the Island County Marine Resources Committee, Sound Water Stewards, and WSU Extension – Island County, is given every year to an outstanding volunteer whose efforts contribute to the protection and restoration of the Island County marine ecosystem and coastal resources.

 The award is named to honor the memory of Jan Holmes, an exemplary marine scientist, educator, and champion for stewardship of the marine environment.

Lee has been an indispensable asset to SWS since she joined the organization in 2018. She has served on the Board of Directors and in many leadership roles. Lee has played a crucial role on several SWS committees, where she excels in finding ways to foster community and welcome new members into the organization.

Lee's most notable contribution is her leadership in SWS’s education programs. She has been an inspirational leader of SWS’s 100-hour Volunteer Education and Training (VET) program including organizing and leading VET classes, recruiting new students, and coordinating high-quality speakers, all of which have garnered widespread praise from participants. Lee's dedication extends to her involvement in Sound Waters University (SWU), SWS’ largest educational event. where she has volunteered annually since joining SWS. In 2024, she took on the monumental task of leading a highly successful SWU in 2025.

Beyond SWS, Lee is a leader within the Salish Sea Guillemot network, having served as a surveyor and colony lead, and is currently a lead Whidbey Island coordinator, bringing her exceptional organizational skills to the role as well.

Lee's impact is felt across both Whidbey and Camano Islands. Her dedication to environmental education and community building makes her a beloved, respected and inspirational figure within the SWS and beyond.

Thank you and congratulations to Lee for all her hard work to make the Salish Sea a better place!