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At Henrys Lake, we often marvel at the wild trout, the stunning sunsets, and the crisp mornings on the water. But today, we pause to shine the spotlight on someone whose dedication has quietly (and sometimes not so quietly) made all of this better for every one of us — our friend, mentor, and board member, Dr. Mary VanFleet.
Mary has served on the Henrys Lake Foundation board for over a decade, helping guide our mission with unmatched energy and heart. Her professional résumé alone is impressive: a PhD in Pharmacology from USC, a distinguished career in medicine and hospital leadership, and a track record of mentoring future business and public service leaders — including me and many others on this board. But it’s her work beyond the resume that makes her truly extraordinary.
Mary is a certified master naturalist, a fierce advocate for conservation, and perhaps most importantly, the person always at the front of the line with her hand raised when there’s work to be done. Calling her an instigator is just about right — she gets things moving. But calling her a finisher hardly does her justice. Mary not only launches projects; she ensures they deliver meaningful, lasting results.
Alongside Damon Keen, Mary has been the driving force of our projects team, championing countless initiatives that protect and enhance Henrys Lake and its watershed. From the ongoing Joint Fish and Game Recruitment Study to the crucial rehabilitation of Targhee Creek — our lake’s most important tributary — her leadership has been pivotal. Thanks in no small part to her and Damon’s relentless pursuit of partnerships with organizations like the Nature Conservancy, the Henrys Fork Foundation, Idaho Fish and Game, and many more, we’ve been able to multiply our impact.
It’s no coincidence that under Mary’s watch, we’ve raised more money for the foundation each consecutive year for a decade and grown our lifetime membership by more than 50%. I’ve had the privilege of continuing to serve as President because I’ve known Mary was by my side — or, truth be told, often out ahead and always right in the thick of it.
Mary cares deeply about all the things that matter most: family, community, conservation, our majestic wildlife, this remarkable lake, and the very idea of service. Because of her countless contributions, we all get to enjoy not just the day-to-day joys of Henrys Lake, but an even brighter future.
So here’s to you, Mary. Thank you for leading, for finishing, for dreaming, and for doing. Our community — and our lake — are immeasurably better because of you.
Richard Hodge – President
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