Issue link: http://www.wacmagazine.com/i/1535304
SPRING / SUMMER 2025 31 By Mae Folsom Jacobson Beyond Former refugee and NATO translator Suzana Sakay is ready to lead the WAC Suzana Sakay was a teenager when she put on American fatigues and crossed the Sava River from Bosnia into Croatia on a temporary float bridge rebuilt after Bosnian War bombings. It was Suzana's only way to the military base in Slavonski Brod, Croatia, where she worked. Whether she crossed north into Croatia or south, back home to Bosnia, soldiers would harass her, questioning how she moved between the two war-torn countries. The American uniform helped, but her camouflage required more than the right clothes. This past February, Suzana stepped into the role of WAC President & CEO. In just three months, she has realigned operations, outlined a new vision for the Club, and turned a sharp eye on member-facing improve- ments that will help lead the WAC firmly toward our 100th birthday. "The WAC is a leader in the Seattle community," Suzana says. "We're the city's best club and one of the city's most important institutions." For Suzana, taking over the Club's top position follows 14 years of leadership around the WAC. It also marks the next step in a journey that began in the ashes of war. borders