Crystal Cove Conservancy Raises $820,000 for Education Programs During 2024 Soirée
PC: J. Christopher Launi
Newport Coast, CA – On Saturday, October 5, Crystal Cove Conservancy (The Conservancy) celebrated its Endless Summer Soirée, marking the 25th anniversary of the organization and raising a record-breaking $820,000 to support its programs. More than 230 guests gathered on the picturesque blufftop at Pelican Point in Crystal Cove State Park to celebrate the lasting impact of The Conservancy’s work.
The evening kicked off with a cocktail reception, followed by an elegant al fresco dinner, a mission-focused live auction, and an after-party that had guests dancing under the stars. Attendees were surprised with historic beach cottage replicas artfully dressing up the picnic ramadas, paying homage to the charm and history of Crystal Cove.
Kate Wheeler, President & CEO of Crystal Cove Conservancy, welcomed guests and expressed her gratitude for their overwhelming support. “This year’s Soirée is not a celebration of our past as much as a redoubling of a commitment to our future. The funds raised tonight will help us expand our programs – equipping and inspiring young people to protect California’s beloved coastal environments.”
PC: J. Christopher Launi
The event highlighted the partnerships that have sustained Crystal Cove through the years including Marisla Foundation for their ongoing support, including a dollar-for-dollar match during the evening’s paddle raise; Assembly Member Cottie Petrie Norris who helped secure nearly $30M for the North Beach Cottage Restoration and Orange County Supervisor Katrina Foley for her support of education programs.
Wheeler also expressed deep appreciation for California State Parks, including the Director of California State Parks, Armando Quintero, whose leadership continues to inspire The Conservancy’s work, and Laura Davick, founder of the Alliance to Rescue Crystal Cove. “So many people came together to save a place the community dearly loved.” Wheeler said, acknowledging Davick’s vision and the community’s relentless efforts to preserve Crystal Cove and turn it into an outdoor classroom for thousands of students each year. Armando Quintero, Director of California State Parks, also shared remarks about the importance of partnerships like the one between Crystal Cove Conservancy and California State Parks in preserving the park’s natural and cultural resources, and he expressed tremendous gratitude for the community’s support.
The evening’s record-setting fundraising was inspired by a heartfelt tribute to the late Michael Berns of Laguna Beach. Michael and Tricia Berns made a transformative gift to The Conservancy more than a decade ago, to establish the Michael & Tricia Berns Environmental Study Loop & Amphitheater in Moro Canyon, now a vital learning space for students. “What was most remarkable about Michael and Tricia’s gift was that it wasn’t an investment in our programs as they exist today, but an investment in the vision for those programs,” Wheeler said. “Michael is remembered here every day, but no more so than in the fall when school is back in session and students return to this living laboratory to learn and explore.”
PC: OC Events
The evening emphasized The Conservancy’s forward-looking mission. Crystal Cove has evolved into a “classroom and a laboratory in nature,” where students—many from under-resourced Title 1 schools—immerse themselves in hands-on learning experiences. “For many students, their Crystal Cove field experience is their first time seeing the ocean,” Wheeler said, emphasizing the impact of the Conservancy’s education programs. These programs allow students to explore tide pools, study marine ecosystems, and forge lasting connections with the natural world.
Wheeler closed the Endless Summer Soiree with a heartfelt reminder of the unique bond between Crystal Cove and its community. “No matter the time of year, this park offers us all an endless summer – a moment of unexpected warmth, the only demand to slow down, and explore a place we love – a place to visit, a place to explore, a place to connect, and a place to learn.”
The Conservancy is grateful for the generous support of the Endless Summer Soiree sponsors including Eva and Doug Le Bon; Michael and Tricia Berns; Glenn Bozarth; Christine L. Carr LoveLight; The Cheng Family; Laura Davick; Michelle and Tim Dean; Bonnie Gregory; Hexberg Family Foundation; Stephanie Quesada and Vincent Jackson; Mara and Keith Murray; Teddie Ray; Wendy and Fred Salter; Sally and Michael Schreter; Karen and Eric Steen; Cyd and Steve Swerdlow; Shelley Thunen; Monette and Steve Zotovich; Jennifer Steele and Jay Bauer; Christine Pappas & Hugh Bradley; Meriam Braselle; Lisa Butler-Herring; Crevier Family Foundation; MacGillivray Family Foundation; Annette and Joseph Oltmans; Jenny and Will O’Neill, Marisa and Steve Robbins, Sheets, Paquette and Wu Dental Practice, Ann and Eric Smyth, Spectra Company; Stradling; Doniel and Jerry Sutton; Laura Tarbox; Jennifer Thomas; Whittier Trust; Jill and Larry Tucker; and several anonymous supporters.
This year’s Soirée was also generously supported by Brian Dobbin, Inc., Buchanan Brand + Design, Fork, Knife and Spoon Catering, Pacific Pearl Café, The Resort at Pelican Hill, The Ranch at Laguna Beach, zpizza, Zotovich Vineyards and Winery.