Aquarium's Annual Gala Raises Over $618,000

NORWALK, CT – More than $618,000 was raised to support the Maritime Aquarium, including its unique environmental-education programming and financial assistance for area schools, during the aquarium's 19th annual gala.

“The Maritime Aquarium depends on the generosity of patrons and area corporations to further our work to develop STEM-education opportunities and to advance our conservation efforts,” Aquarium Director of Development Alicia Wettenstein said in a release. “This annual support raises both awareness and critical funds to strengthen the Aquarium’s impact on Long Island Sound and marine education.”

The gala was held April 19 and welcomed 320 guests, who mingled over cocktails in the aquarium galleries and then enjoyed an elegant sit-down dinner, as well as silent and live auctions.

Actor and director Melissa Joan Hart served as Master of Ceremonies, and mentalist Ryan Oakes entertained the crowd with his unique brand of illusion.

During the evening, a “paddle raise” generated $88,300 specifically to replenish a scholarship fund that helps to make the aquarium and its marine-science and environmental-education programs available to tri-state area schools regardless of their ability to pay.

This year’s gala celebrated the aquarium’s broad accomplishments over its nearly 30 years. The popular attraction’s 30th anniversary is July 16.

This celebration included recognition of past recipients of the Aquarium’s Red Apple Awards. These awards have been presented over the last 18 years to honor companies, organizations and individuals who share the Maritime Aquarium’s concern for the natural world and environmental education.

For more information about the annual gala, call the Maritime Aquarium at 203-852-0700 (ext. 2277).

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Photo credits: Krissy Ramsey