Submitted by The Orcas Island Community Foundation.

Marilyn Anderson, retired military physical therapist and force of nature, had a favorite saying- “Prior planning precludes poor performance”. She strived for excellence in everything she did in life. She left several local nonprofits legacy gifts when she passed in 2016.

The Orcas Island Community Foundation received one of those gifts. OICF’s Board has decided to use the funds to start the Marilyn Anderson Excellence Awards, providing $1000 to organizations that carry her standard forward.

OICF had intended to present the awards during the annual Report to Community event, but the pandemic put those festive gatherings on hold. Instead, Executive Director Hilary Canty presented the awards directly. The first Anderson Excellence Award was given to Orcas Montessori School in honor of the amazing career of Theresa Chocano, who recently retired after 25 years as director of the school. Theresa leaves the school newly remodeled and in a place of growth and strength. The Montessori Board will give her these funds as a retirement gift.

The second Anderson Excellence Award was given to Children’s House in honor of teacher Jenny Hovelman, who has also retired after 25 years of service educating generations of island children. The Children’s House Board is also giving these funds to Teacher Jenny for her retirement.

Marilyn Anderson would be delighted to support these two women who dedicated their careers to the children of Orcas. They have certainly proven their excellence.