Our Patrons

Current Patron

The Honourable Wendy Cocchia, C.M., O.B.C., LL.D. (Hon), was announced as the 31st Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia on December 20, 2024. We are so fortunate to have Lieutenant Governors as our Patrons and we look forward to welcoming Her Honour as a Patron to the Loon Foundation in 2025.

Wendy Lisogar-Cocchia is a respected entrepreneur in Canada’s hospitality industry and a dedicated community leader and philanthropist. A trusted advisor to business associations and community organizations, she is also the co-founder of the Pacific Autism Family Network, which supports neurodivergent people and their families. She has received recognitions that include the Order of Canada, the Order of British Columbia, the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal, the King Charles III Coronation Medal, and two honorary doctorates.

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Former Patrons

The Honourable Janet Austin, the 30th Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia, was the Loon Foundation Patron from 2019 to 2024. She had spent the 15 years prior working as the Chief Executive Officer of YWCA Metro Vancouver, overseeing operations at more than 40 locations. Prior to joining to YWCA, Her Honour worked with BC Housing and served as the Executive Director of Big Sister of BC Lower Mainland. Her Honour was invested as a Member of the Order of British Columbia in 2016 and has served as Chancellor of the Order during her term as Lieutenant Governor. She holds an Honorary Doctorate of Laws from Kwantlen Polytechnic University, and is a University of Calgary English graduate. In line with her commitment to helping others, Her Honour has actively volunteered for a large number of organizations.

The Honourable Judith Guichon, the 29th Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia, acted as our Patron from August 2015 until her end of term in April 2018. During her patronage she paid several visits to the Sunshine Coast to meet with our Board members and discuss our operations and progress. In 2017 she hosted the Stewards of the Future Conference on the Sunshine Coast and brought all 120 youth representatives to the Iris & Billy Griffith Nature Centre for a visit and tour.