WRA’s 2026 Awards Gala

Date: April 23, 2026

Time: 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm

Alex Cupo accepts WRA's inaugural Young Leaders Award

“These awardees are leading with science, collaboration and vision to advance resilience and sustainability in the Delaware River Basin and beyond,” said Jennifer Garigliano, WRA Board President. “WRA’s Awards Gala, which some refer to as ‘Water Prom’, is a unique opportunity for our community across the four states – New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Delaware – to come together and honor these programs and individuals making an indelible mark on the health of our basin.”

“WRA unites people and organizations across geographies, sectors, and disciplines to address our region’s most complex water resources challenges,” added Skelly Holmbeck, WRA Executive Director.  “These awards celebrate leaders whose science, ingenuity, and stewardship protect drinking water, restore ecosystems, and raise the standard for what is possible.”

Event Photos

Information about the awards

Dr. Ximing Guo

SAMUEL S. BAXTER MEMORIAL AWARD

Presented to
Distinguished Professor Ximing Guo

In recognition of his visionary Delaware Bay shellfish genetics research, establishing transformative innovations that have advanced global aquaculture, Basin water resources and resilience through decades of sustained scientific excellence.

Richard W. Greene, PhD

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

Presented to
Richard W. Greene, PhD

Distinguished scientist and mentor whose career advanced the understanding of toxic contaminants, created Delaware’s fish advisory program, and shaped regional policy through collaborative excellence.

WATERSIDE LAND DEVELOPMENT, CONSERVATION AND PRESERVATION AWARD

Presented to
PIDC – Master Developer of the Navy Yard

For its extraordinary leadership in transforming The Navy Yard waterfront into a dynamic engine of sustainable growth through resilient design and environmental stewardship.

Abdullah Al-Amin, PhD

YOUNG LEADERS AWARD

Presented to
Abdullah Al-Amin, PhD
Philadelphia Water Department

For rigorous and pioneering stormwater science, engaging collaboration, and the rare gift of making complex ideas clear in service of clean water across the Delaware River Basin.

DR. RUTH PATRICK EXCELLENCE IN EDUCATION AWARD

Presented to
Wildlands Conservancy

For providing accessible, high quality education about watershed systems, water quality, habitat health, and the ways human activities influence the Delaware River Basin.

WRA ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

Presented to
Philadelphia Water Department
Flat Rock Dam Improvement Project

Transforming the Manayunk Canal into a thriving aquatic ecosystem connected to the Schuylkill River, and creating a welcome place for wildlife and the community.

SPECIAL RECOGNITION AWARD

Presented to
Penn State Extension Master
Watershed Steward Program

For outstanding work conserving and enhancing waterways and green spaces through community education and outreach to advance ecological resilience in the Delaware River Basin.

Thank You to our Awards Gala Volunteers