SOFO’s 37th Annual Summer Gala Celebrated The Power Of The Natural World In Bridgehampton

The South Fork Natural History Museum and Nature Center (SOFO) held its 37th Annual Summer Gala Benefit at the museum in Bridgehampton, themed “Celebrate the Power of Our Natural World: Protecting Our Planet’s Living Waters & Lands.” The gala supported the South Fork Natural History Museum and Nature Center’s environmental education, museum programming, conservation initiatives, and community outreach, bringing together conservation leaders, philanthropists, civic supporters, and guests for one of the East End’s signature summer benefits.

The 2026 honorees included Fabien Cousteau, renowned aquanaut, ocean conservationist and documentary filmmaker; Bernadette Castro, esteemed civic leader and environmental advocate; Louise and Stephen Pesce, devoted supporters of conservation and community initiatives; and Jean Shafiroff, advocate, philanthropist and humanitarian.

The evening began with a VIP cocktail reception, featuring a special tasting menu from acclaimed chefs, restaurants and beverage sponsors. The benefit party included dinner, presentation to the Honorees, a live auction led by special guest auctioneer Angela LaGreca, and dancing.

Attendees included Andy Sabin, Fabien Cousteau, Bernadette Castro, Louise and Stephen Pesce, Jean Shafiroff, Diane Aceti, Angela LaGreca, Jill Zarin, Bradford Rand, John Catsimatidis, Susan Rockefeller, Tommy John Schiavoni, Erica Noble & Ray Iwanowski, Kim and Greg Lippmann, Michael Ulica, Carl Safina, Barbara and Stan Arkin, Jesse Matsouka, Jessica Matsouka, Barbara and Steve Grapstein, Felicitas and Peer Kohl, and Ada Samuelsson.