FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 14, 2026
CONTACT: Blair Nelsen, Executive Director, Waterspirit
PHONE: 732-923-9788, water@waterspirit.org
Additional Photos/Video available upon request
Waves of Wonder: Waterspirit’s Joys of the Sea Gala Ignites Passion for Water Protection
Annual celebration honors environmental champions and raises vital funds for
clean water advocacy and spiritual ecology
Long Branch, NJ — Today, the salt air was filled with more than just mist as Waterspirit hosted its highly anticipated Joys of the Sea event. The gathering brought together environmental advocates, community leaders and ocean lovers to celebrate the majesty of our waterways and the urgent mission of water preservation.
The event also served as a clear reminder of the profound connection between humanity and the hydrosphere. Guests enjoyed an immersive experience featuring coastal-inspired art, water themed live music, auction items and inspiring words from the esteemed Spirit of Water Awardees.
“Waterspirit is a leading advocate for water in New Jersey and I love being part of a community that trains and empowers people to raise their voices in support of water. What a wonderful event—celebrating with a community of engaged people so passionate about protecting our waters, both locally and internationally,” said Waterspirit Board Chair, Kate Chambers.
The highlight of the evening was the presentation of Waterspirit’s prestigious Spirit of Water Awards, which honor individuals and organizations that have demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to water protection. The 2026 awardees are Dr. Patricia Shanley and Captain Robert Killian.
Dr. Shanley, Spirit of Water Award recipient reflected, “People are inspired by beauty, mystery, culture, and a sense of a spirit beyond them. Waterspirit’s focus on the sacredness of nature and motivating people through education and action is what the world needs. It is an honor to be recognized by Waterspirit in my home state of New Jersey. Waterspirit’s work affirms what I have learned during 50 years of working on forest conservation in Brazil, Indonesia and the US.”
“I am honored to be recognized by Waterspirit for my environmental work. I especially appreciate the spiritual aspect of Waterspirit. I think we are stewards of this earth and we each share a responsibility to leave it better than we found it. I accept the award in the name of all the volunteers who have helped to achieve that goal,” said Captain Robert Killian, a Spirit of Water Award recipient.
The “Joys of the Sea” auction lived up to its name, offering attendees the chance to support the cause while securing unique experiences and items. In addition to individual water protectors, whose ongoing support is sacrosanct, the following sponsors and businesses contributed toward making this the most successful Joys of the Sea to date:
Sponsors: Kate and Bob Chambers, Ann Marie and Bob Reardon, Sue Smith, Eleanor Swanson, The BTS Center, The Thomas Berry Foundation, Bethany Center Hudson Valley, The Vin Gopal Civic Association, and an anonymous donor.
Auction Donors: Axelrod Performing Arts Center, Beachy Birder Adventures, Blue Skies Pottery, Bob Chambers, Cape May Brewing, Chefs International, Colleen O'Brien, Crazees Ice Cream, Cups and Cakes, Eleanor Swanson, George Street Playhouse, Gorjana Jewelry, Hackensack Riverkeeper & Hugh Carola, InBloom at Calgo Gardens, Karen LaPara, Laudato Si’ Movement NJ, Longwood Gardens, Marguerite Stocker, McLoone’s Pier House, Middletown Wellness Center, Monmouth University, Pat Heaney, Patty Cronheim, Pier Pins, Rook Coffee, Rutgers University Athletics, Sand Cloud, Moira Tener, New York Football Giants Inc., New York Red Bulls, Tanisha Garner & CHOZINDESIGNS, Total Wine & More, Triumph Brewing, Turning Point Restaurants, Wild West Chocolates, and Wines for Humanity.
Waterspirit’s Executive Director, Blair Nelsen observed, “Community events like Joys of the Sea help restore our broken relationship with nature. We build the bonds of solidarity that help us recommit to protecting water. I am blessed to be a part of Waterspirit's inspiring community.”
“Waterspirit is more than an organization. Waterspirit is a safe haven, a marriage of science and soul, an open invitation to ‘do more’, and a community that I am grateful to be a part of,” said Star Tener, Waterspirit Volunteer and Member of the Joys of the Sea Planning Committee. Star contemplated, “We are many spirits gathering as one steward. We honor the past and work to improve the future. Together, we give water a voice.”
About Waterspirit
Founded in 1998, Waterspirit is a spiritual ecology nonprofit grounded in the belief that water is sacred and must be protected. Through education, advocacy and contemplative practice, Waterspirit fosters non-denominational spiritual connection and environmental protection to heal Earth’s waters.