Environmental Leaders Honored at Waterspirit's 'Joys of the Sea' Event

The annual celebration in Long Branch, NJ brought together the community to support water protection efforts.

Mar. 16, 2026 at 7:33pm

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The nonprofit organization Waterspirit hosted its annual 'Joys of the Sea' event in Long Branch, New Jersey, celebrating the region's waterways and honoring environmental advocates Dr. Patricia Shanley and Captain Robert Killian with its Spirit of Water Awards. The gathering featured coastal-themed artwork, live music, and a fundraising auction, aiming to highlight the beauty of local waterways and the importance of environmental stewardship.

Why it matters

Waterspirit's focus on connecting environmental protection with education and community engagement is seen as an important approach to inspiring people to advocate for water resources. The annual event helps strengthen public awareness and support for water conservation efforts in the local community.

The details

The 'Joys of the Sea' event included a presentation of Waterspirit's Spirit of Water Awards, which recognize individuals demonstrating leadership in environmental protection. The 2026 honorees were Dr. Patricia Shanley, an environmental advocate whose work has focused on forest conservation, and Captain Robert Killian, who views environmental stewardship as a shared responsibility. The event also featured a fundraising auction with donated items and experiences from local businesses, arts organizations, and regional institutions.

  • The 'Joys of the Sea' event took place on March 16, 2026.

The players

Waterspirit

A nonprofit organization focused on spiritual ecology and environmental advocacy, promoting education, community engagement, and advocacy initiatives aimed at protecting the planet's water systems.

Dr. Patricia Shanley

An environmental advocate whose work has focused on forest conservation in Brazil, Indonesia, and the United States.

Captain Robert Killian

An environmental advocate who views protecting the earth as a shared responsibility.

Kate Chambers

The Board Chair of Waterspirit, a leading advocate for water in New Jersey.

Blair Nelsen

The Executive Director of Waterspirit, who believes community events like 'Joys of the Sea' help restore our relationship with nature and recommit to protecting water.

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What they’re saying

“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.”

— Dr. Patricia Shanley

“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.”

— Captain Robert Killian

“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.”

— Kate Chambers, Waterspirit Board Chair

“Community events like Joys of the Sea help restore our relationship with nature. We build the bonds of solidarity that help us recommit to protecting water.”

— Blair Nelsen, Waterspirit Executive Director

The takeaway

Waterspirit's annual 'Joys of the Sea' event demonstrates how community-driven initiatives can inspire environmental advocacy and stewardship, bringing people together to celebrate and protect local waterways.