We are excited to announce the first annual PPBEP Awards!
Recipients will be announced at our Evening for the Estuaries Gala on October 17th at the Coastal Arts Center of Orange Beach.
Project of the Year
The PPBEP Project of the Year Award recognizes the successful completion of a transformational project that has improved water quality, habitat, community resilience, local watershed knowledge, and/or equitable access to our natural resources within the last five years. The award is bestowed to an organization that stands out for their excellence in completing a conservation, restoration, and/or outreach project, fostering collaboration and community engagement, and building on or establishing new partnerships.
Jessica Bibza Partner of the Year
Jessica Bibza was akin to the Energizer Bunny, she just kept going. Jessica dedicated her life to environmental conservation, ranging from Gulf Coast restoration to manatee research and awareness campaigns to environmental policy. Jessica was instrumental in founding PPBEP, having served on the Bay Area Resource Council Technical Advisory Committee that drafted the proposal to establish the Program, serving as the Chairperson of the PPBEP Technical Committee, and establishing the Panhandle Manatee Program. Jessica was our biggest cheerleader, as she was for many across the Gulf Coast. Everyone had a seat at Jessica’s table to join the conversation and be part of the solution. The Jessica Bibza Partner of the Year Award recognizes the outstanding dedication and passion of one individual that has had an immeasurable impact on our community by bringing people together to ensure a better tomorrow for all.
Volunteer of the Year
The PPBEP Volunteer of the Year Award recognizes the outstanding service of one PPBEP volunteer. PPBEP volunteers help make our education and outreach programs possible and are central to implementing our mission. The award is bestowed to a volunteer that stands out for demonstrating passion, dedication, and overall leadership over the last year.
Nominations are now open for Project of the Year and Jessica Bibza Partner of the Year.
The Volunteer of the Year will be nominated by Program staff.
Award Nominations are due to [email protected] by 11:59pm CT on September 13, 2024.
