Staff

Amy Saxe-Eyler, Executive Director

Having spent most of her career in the world of corporate finance and operational excellence, Amy made a swift transition to an idyllic island life in early 2009, first as a resident of Orcas Island, then moving to San Juan in 2015. She has made a personal commitment to work locally and has devoted her professional skills to local nonprofits in both employee and volunteer roles.

Amy has served as the Energy Program and Member Services Manager at OPALCO, Executive Director at Wolf Hollow Wildlife Rehab Center, the Finance and Marketing Manager at SJICF, and most recently as the Development Director of the SJI Library District. Her passion is nurturing collaborative relationships to help meet the needs of her community. She is thrilled to be returning to SJICF in the leadership role.

In her spare time, Amy can be found boating with her husband Steve and 2 rescue greyhounds, cuddling with her 2 cats, and planning her next trip to Europe. She serves on the board of APS Friday Harbor and is active in the SJICF Women’s Fund and local knitting community.

Melissa Martin, Assistant Executive Director

Melissa, known as Missy to friends, joined the Community Foundation in January of 2025. In 1997, she and her husband Randy got married at Limekiln Point Lighthouse. They proceeded to build a home and raise their three children – Lucy, Ava, and Milo – on San Juan Island. With all the support the community has to offer, her family has flourished. 

After 25 years as a physical therapist, privileged to treat patients in their own homes, Melissa brings her wide range of experiences and deep community roots to the broader mission of SJICF. She also volunteers as the Treasurer of the SJI Service Scholarship.

As an outdoor enthusiast and former athlete, she enjoys long island trail walks, biking, and paddling. She also enjoys traveling and keeping up with her kids’ endeavors near and far. Missy is excited to serve this community through strong local connections with people and causes that have so positively shaped her and her family and make this community thrive.

Carrie Unpingco, Relationship Manager

Since 2014, Carrie Unpingco has been a key member of the SJICF, bringing a wealth of experience to her role as Relationship Manager. Originally from Leavenworth, WA, Carrie earned a BS in Community Health Education from Central Washington University, moving to San Juan Island in 2007 to begin her career at the InterIsland Medical Center.

In 2012, she transitioned to PeaceHealth Peace Island Medical Center, where she served as Executive Assistant in Administration, gaining valuable insights into healthcare management. Her journey with SJICF began as Operations Manager and led to her appointment as Executive Director in 2015. In 2024, Carrie embraced a new role focused on fostering meaningful relationships with local nonprofits.

Carrie serves as Board Secretary for the Rotary Club of San Juan Island and volunteers as a youth cheer and softball coach. Along with her husband Juan and their children, Aries and Athena, Carrie enjoys the vibrant community life and outdoor activities that San Juan Island offers. They spend their time coaching youth sports and exploring the scenic landscapes with their two dachshunds, fully embracing the island lifestyle.

 

Katie Stringer, Program & Administrative Manager

Katie joined the San Juan Island Community Foundation as an Administrative Assistant in the fall of 2023. She has a diverse professional background, including careers in human resources, software implementation, and wedding planning.

Katie moved to San Juan Island in 2014 after falling in love with the islands while planning her own wedding on Orcas Island. Over the past 10 years, she and her wife have created three local businesses and have recently become increasingly involved in youth athletics programs.

When she’s not keeping the office running smoothly or answering questions for scholarship students, you can find Katie chasing after her energetic 4- and 8-year-olds, Lincoln and Sadie, or attending a high school softball game (coached by her wife Michelle). Katie enjoys crafts of all kinds, exploring the island’s natural beauty, and playing games with her family.