WSVEF announces new executive director

WHITE SALMON — The White Salmon Valley Education Foundation (WSVEF) has a new executive director.

Darby McAdams, a White Salmon resident, brings a background in filmmaking, outdoor leadership, and community engagement to the role, said a press release. She has long been active as a community organizer, leading events like the Little White Salmon Race, and has produced numerous nonprofit-driven film projects.

Most recently, McAdams played an integral role in Paddle Tribal Waters, a film following Native youth as they completed the first source-to-sea descent of the Klamath River after the largest dam removal in history. The descent, which took place in July, drew national attention and was featured on the front pages of The New York Times and The Washington Post.

As executive director, McAdams will lead the Foundation in its ongoing mission to support teachers, students, and schools in the White Salmon Valley, said the press release. She is also spearheading the foundation’s annual fundraiser, the Gorge Grape Escape, on Oct. 4 at the Best Western Plus Hood River Inn. This year’s Enchanted Forest–themed gala will feature dinner, live and silent auctions, and a celebration of the community’s educators and students.