SOFO CELEBRATES THE POWER OF THE NATURAL WORLD AT ITS 2026 SUMMER GALA
The South Fork Natural History Museum and Nature Center (SOFO) welcomed conservationists, philanthropists, and members of the Hamptons community for its 37th Annual Summer Gala Benefit in Bridgehampton, raising support for environmental education, conservation initiatives, museum programming, and community outreach. Centered around the theme “Celebrate the Power of Our Natural World: Protecting Our Planet’s Living Waters & Lands,” the annual fundraiser highlighted the organization’s ongoing commitment to protecting the region’s natural ecosystems while celebrating those making a lasting impact in environmental advocacy.
The evening honored renowned aquanaut, ocean conservationist, and filmmaker Fabien Cousteau; civic leader and environmental advocate Bernadette Castro; longtime conservation supporters Louise and Stephen Pesce; and philanthropist Jean Shafiroff for their contributions to conservation, philanthropy, and community leadership. SOFO Board President Andy Sabin joined the honorees during the evening’s presentations.
Guests began the evening with a VIP cocktail reception featuring tastings from many of the East End’s acclaimed restaurants, wineries, breweries, and beverage partners before gathering for dinner beneath the gala tent. The celebration continued with presentations honoring this year’s recipients, a live auction led by special guest auctioneer Angela LaGreca, and dancing, raising funds to advance SOFO’s educational and conservation mission.
Among those in attendance were Andy Sabin, Fabien Cousteau, Bernadette Castro, Louise and Stephen Pesce, Jean Shafiroff, Jill Zarin, Bradford Rand, John Catsimatidis, Susan Rockefeller, Angela LaGreca, Tommy John Schiavoni, Erica Noble and Ray Iwanowski, Kim and Greg Lippmann, Carl Safina, Michael Ulica, Barbara and Stan Arkin, Felicitas and Peer Kohl, Jesse and Jessica Matsouka, Barbara and Steve Grapstein, Ada Samuelsson, and Diane Aceti, reflecting the gala’s continued role as one of the Hamptons’ signature philanthropic summer gatherings.
Guests also enjoyed offerings from a wide range of culinary partners including Bell & Anchor, Channing Daughters Winery, East Hampton Grill, Hampton Coffee Company, LALO Tequila, Lobster Roll/LUNCH, Page Sag Harbor, Sen, The Palm Restaurant, Wölffer Estate Vineyard, and many other local favorites. Sponsors included National Geographic – Lindblad Expeditions, The Safina Center, Rand Luxury’s 2026 Hamptons Concours d’Elegance, Dylan’s Candy Bar, Hampton Coffee Company, and additional organizations supporting SOFO’s environmental mission.
Founded to inspire environmental stewardship through education and exploration, the South Fork Natural History Museum and Nature Center serves children, families, and adults through museum exhibitions, citizen science initiatives, marine education, nature walks, and conservation programming. Proceeds from the annual gala directly support these efforts, helping preserve the East End’s natural landscapes and waterways for future generations.
Beyond the evening’s fundraising efforts, the gala reflected the unique intersection of environmental advocacy and Hamptons summer culture, bringing together leaders in conservation alongside philanthropists, business leaders, artists, and longtime supporters of the East End community. As one of the season’s signature charitable gatherings, SOFO’s annual benefit continues to highlight the growing role philanthropy plays in advancing environmental awareness while celebrating those dedicated to protecting the region’s natural landscapes.
