The Maritime Aquarium Raises Over $529,000

Norwalk, CT – With a focus on illuminating inextricable links between wellbeing and the environment, The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk held its Seas the Night Gala on Sept. 12. The annual event raised over $529,000 to sustain and enhance exhibits, education programs, and conservation efforts. 

“For our community and environment to be healthy, we need to look at them holistically – one cannot thrive without the consideration of the other. Here at the Aquarium, we are working to break down the barriers between them and inspire environmental stewards of all ages. We are incredibly grateful to our generous supporters who help us to achieve these goals,” said President and CEO Jason Patlis.  

Before dinner, 160 guests were invited to spend some time at the Aquarium’s most beloved exhibits, including Pinniped Cove and Ocean Beyond the Sound, and enjoy live music by International Strings. 

The program hosted by Patrick Tully and Harry Santa-Olalla celebrated the organization’s new and transformational mission and strategic plan, An Aquarium Without Walls.

Barbara Erdmann received the Visionary Award for her commitment to the children and families of Norwalk. Through the generosity of her “BE Inspired Fund,” 123 children have had the opportunity to attend summer camp at the Aquarium and experience the wonders of the marine world firsthand.  

The Jeniam Foundation received the Innovation Award for its unique approach to the conservation of Long Island Sound. Over the past decade, the foundation has worked closely with and enabled other organizations to take risks to address today’s most pressing environmental challenges.

Charles H. Duffy III, VMD received the Community Leader Award for his unparalleled dedication to the well being of animals. He provides outstanding service not only to the Aquarium, but to other charitable organizations throughout the region and all those who visit the Norwalk Veterinary Hospital.  

Sponsors included Clayton and Margaret Fowler, Genco Shipping and Trading Limited, Jeff and Barbara Erdmann, Suzanne McGraw, The Rohn Family, Delmar Hotel Collection, Fairfield County Bank, M&T Bank, Kathy and Russ Mitchell, and The Wolf Conservation Center.

To learn how you can support the Aquarium’s mission, visit www.maritimeaquarium.org/donate.  

THE MARITIME AQUARIUM AT NORWALK works to ignite a connection to Long Island Sound and the ocean to enrich the lives of all people and inspire action to protect our blue planet. The Aquarium is home to over 7,500 animals of hundreds of species including seals, sharks, rays, jellies, turtles and meerkats. Additionally, it offers sensory-enhanced 4D movies and educational programs for schools and families. The Maritime Aquarium is an accredited member of the Association of Zoos & Aquariums and receives support from the State of Connecticut DECD’s Offices of Culture and Tourism. For more information, visit www.maritimeaquarium.org.