With sustainability and conservation at the forefront of the Seas the Night Gala on 2 November, The Maritime Aquarium in Norwalk, Conn., raised more than $400,000 in support of its live exhibits, award-winning education programs, and conservation efforts benefiting Long Island Sound.
The Aquarium welcomed more than 100 guests in its first gala outside its South Norwalk facility. The event was held at the HMTX World Headquarters, one of the greenest buildings in Connecticut and the first in Norwalk to pursue the Living Building Challenge, the world’s most stringent green building rating system.
This year’s honorees were selected for their distinguished service and dedication to their communities. Harlan Stone received the Community Leader Award, which Rick Taylor accepted on his behalf; Richard B. Alexander received the Innovation Award; and Dr. Sylvia Earle received the Visionary Award.
Digital Content Creator and Actress Eva Amurri hosted the program, and Dr. Earle, a National Geographic Explorer in Residence and founder of Mission Blue delivered the evening’s keynote address, where she emphasized the importance of not giving up hope when it comes to conservation.
“Our Seas the Night Gala was a unique moment to celebrate our 35th anniversary and how far we’ve come, as well as our future and how much more we can accomplish for our community and environment,” said President and Chief Executive Officer, Jason Patlis. “Since 1988, we have played a pivotal role in revitalizing South Norwalk and provided unique learning experiences not just for students but for people of all ages. In the years to come, we will continue to foster our community’s connection to our blue planet in a way that truly enriches their lives and inspires them to take action to protect our ocean.”
The beauty of the natural environment was captured throughout the space by Carlyle Upson, whose watercolor paintings featuring horseshoe crabs decorated the walls, and several members of a local garden club designed centerpieces that were later donated to local senior centers and hospitals.
Guests listened to an international string quartet throughout the night, and the menu, prepared by On the Marc Catering highlighted delicious locally sourced vegetarian meals, which require fewer resources to produce and positively impact our planet.
Sponsors included Clay and Margaret Fowler, Genco Shipping and Trading Limited, Fairfield County Bank, and Sillycow Farms LLC.
Photos Credit: © Maritime Aquarium