Maritime Aquarium In Norwalk Announces New Board Members

NORWALK, CT — The Maritime Aquarium announced Friday the appointment of two new members to its Board of Trustees.

According to a news release provided by the aquarium, both Harlan Stone and Robert Counihan have a strong commitment to Norwalk and the environment that will help the aquarium foster a connection between the community and the ocean.

"Harlan and Robert are both deeply committed to Norwalk as a strong and diverse community, and both recognize the aquarium as a pillar of that community," Maritime Aquarium CEO Jason Patlis said in a news release. "As we embark on a new strategic plan that emphasizes our role in the community, their passion and leadership will be instrumental to our success."

Stone is the Chief Executive Officer of HMTX Industries, a global LVT flooring manufacturer serving a diverse cross-section of the construction and renovation marketplaces.

The company’s headquarters in Norwalk is one of the greenest buildings in the state of Connecticut and first in the city to pursue the Living Building Challenge, the world’s most stringent green building rating system, according to the aquarium.

Stone received the aquarium’s 2023 Community Leader Award and is involved in numerous philanthropic endeavors focused on housing, education and cancer research.

"I am so pleased to be joining the Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk Board of Trustees," Stone said in a news release. "The people I know on the board, the leadership of TMA, and the wonderful programs and facilities are all exemplary. It is truly an honor to be part of the Strategic Vision that President & CEO Jason Patlis and his team have put together along with the board and input from the community. As one of the leading cultural attractions in the State for Connecticut, the Maritime Aquarium here in Norwalk has significant input on our community—both the city of Norwalk and beyond. I visited many times as father of young girl over thirty years ago, and again as grandfather to a young girl last year. The next time I visit, it will be with new eyes and greater understanding of the impact this jewel of South Norwalk can deliver."

Counihan is a partner at Fenwick & West focused on helping life sciences companies of all sizes navigate business conflicts. He is dedicated to pro bono service and has negotiated IP licenses and research grants on behalf of multiple international research foundations and represented children seeking special education services, according to the aquarium.

Counihan has lived in Norwalk since 2016 and often visits the aquarium with his family.

"I am flattered and deeply honored to join the Maritime Aquarium community as a trustee," Counihan said in a news release. "The aquarium has long been a place of enjoyment for my family. I look forward to the challenge of helping to drive the aquarium forward with its exciting 10-year strategic plan, and making it a part of more families and communities across the region and nation."

Additionally, trustees Norm Bloom, Rev. Dr. Lindsay Curtis, Deborah McLean, Novelette Peterkin, and Diane Schlinkert were reelected to a second term. William Burnham and Neil Beup were reelected as vice chairs, and Clay Fowler was reelected as chair, according to the aquarium.

"The Maritime Aquarium is entering a new decade of growth," Fowler said in a news release. "We are excited to welcome Harlan and Robert to the board as we create new and innovative ways to engage our community."