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On behalf of the entire Washington Estonian Society community, we are thrilled to welcome Lilya and Roberto as new members of our Board of Directors.
Here are welcome letters from Lilya and Roberto:
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Tere,
I am Dr. Lilya Wagner, an Estonian refugee and immigrant, and I became an American Citizen in the early fifties. I returned to Estonia in 1992 and found my huge clan to which I’m closely tied. What a privilege to go back, since I was a tiny kid when we had to flee! I live near the Glenmont stop of the Red Line. I used to travel globally for work and five years ago I quit due to Covid and my husband’s Parkinson’s, so I’ve only been involved with WES in the last few years. Prior to that I wasn’t around enough to become acquainted.
I’m so pleased to connect with Estonians here, especially since I can’t go back due to my husband’s health—I used to go to Estonia once or twice each year since 1992! My profession is as a consultant/trainer/speaker primarily in the areas of nonprofit management and fundraising. I’ve been a musician and could play the original Estonian anthem from the time I can remember. I’m an author of several books and many articles and my first book was about my family’s escape and refugee story, To Linger is to Die. I’m very glad to be among Estonians right here in my home area!
Lilya Wagner
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Tere kõigile!
My name is Segundo Sam, though I go by Roberto. A quick fun fact about the name, all the men in my family share the first name Segundo and go by our middle names (a bit funny, especially since Segundo means “second” in Spanish!).
I’m half Peruvian and currently live in Navy Yard, Washington, DC. I’ve been connected with the Washington Estonian Society since 2022, mainly through my wonderful partner, Liis. This year, I’m honored to be joining as a board member to further deepen my love for Estonian culture and people.
As a retired Navy veteran, I’ve learned the value of mentorship, community, and service. Throughout my career, I had the privilege of both being mentored and mentoring others — experiences that taught me the importance of giving back and helping others grow. Volunteering with WES is a natural extension of this, allowing me to contribute to a community I deeply respect while continuing to learn and share in its traditions.
I have a genuine appreciation for Estonia — its history, culture, and people — and I look forward to supporting the Society’s work while also (hopefully!) improving my Estonian language skills along the way.
Roberto
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