Susan Magnano Salazar

BOARD MEMBER

Susan grew up in Seattle, Washington, as the youngest of eight siblings. In her family, attending college was not just encouraged—it was expected. She followed that path and enrolled at the University of Washington, where she pledged Delta Gamma sorority and graduated in 1983 with a degree in Speech Communications.

After a few years, Susan began working for her family's business, The Napoleon Co., a fourth-generation importer of specialty foods founded by her grandfather in 1903 after emigrating from Genoa, Italy. The company imported fine products from around the world—Spanish olive oil, Greek Kalamata olives, Peruvian piquillo peppers, and more. Susan started as an entry-level sales representative and eventually became the Key Account Manager for the Pacific Northwest, managing sales to wholesalers, distributors, and retailers. Her career at the company spanned 32 years.

During that time, Susan married and raised two sons, Alex and Mario, with her husband. Deeply influenced by her own upbringing, Susan always prioritized education. She and her husband believed one of the greatest gifts they could give their children was the opportunity for a rich and meaningful academic experience. Just as her parents had done for her, Susan instilled in her sons the idea that education creates choices—and choices open doors to opportunity.

After retiring from The Napoleon Co., Susan embraced a new chapter. In 2020, she completed a yoga teacher training program and became a certified instructor, now guiding others through yoga and meditation. She credits yoga with playing an instrumental role in her spiritual journey and believes she is now aligned with her true calling: helping others discover a deeper sense of self through mindful practice.

Susan is living out her dream—a path made possible by the foundation her parents laid: a belief in the power of education, the value of hard work, and a lifelong commitment to growth and purpose.