The Pelican Awards annually recognize exceptional contributions to protecting and restoring the North Carolina coast. 2025’s winners have shared their time and talents, through leadership, education, hands-on projects, and volunteer efforts, to inspire others and create lasting change.
Northeast Coastal Region Awards
Donnie Sellers
For Exceptional Contributions and Stewardship of Our Coast
Donnie Sellers is an exceptional volunteer whose dedication to environmental stewardship sets a high standard for service. Reliable and always willing to help, Donnie plays a vital role in highway cleanups, oyster shell recycling, and the restoration of critical oyster habitats. His efforts support healthier coastlines and stronger communities. Beyond fieldwork, Donnie contributed to the day-to-day management of our demonstration oyster farm, advancing education and sustainable aquaculture. He also lends a hand with office maintenance and other behind-the-scenes tasks, reflecting his willingness to step in wherever needed. More than just a volunteer, Donnie is a kind, dependable, and selfless leader. His quiet example inspires others to take part and shows how consistent dedication can create meaningful and lasting impact.
Leonard “Len” Schmitz
For Outstanding Volunteer Efforts to Advance Oyster Shell Recycling
Len Schmitz is recognized for his outstanding dedication and remarkable contributions as a volunteer with the Federation’s Recycle for Reefs program on the Outer Banks. Since joining our efforts, Len has been a driving force behind the expansion and success of our shell recycling initiatives. With a true “go-getter” spirit, Len doesn’t wait for opportunities — he creates them. He actively forges new collaborations, identifies growth opportunities, and develops innovative ideas that have significantly strengthened the program’s reach and effectiveness.
His passion for sustainability is evident in every task he undertakes, from hands-on efforts to strategic improvements. The ripple effect of his work has made a lasting impact on coastal restoration and community engagement. Len Schmitz embodies the spirit of the Pelican Award, demonstrating how one individual’s initiative and commitment can create meaningful, enduring environmental change.
David Hallac
For Leadership and Dedication to Coastal Protection, Recreation and Cultural Resources
Since 2015, Superintendent Dave Hallac has led the National Park Service’s Outer Banks Group, which includes Cape Hatteras National Seashore, Wright Brothers National Memorial, and Fort Raleigh National Historic Site with tireless resolve and a forward-thinking vision. The southern Outer Banks present rare challenges, where America’s first National Seashore meets close-knit villages along a narrow, eroding barrier island—one of the East Coast’s most dynamic landscapes. Hallac has shown exceptional leadership on some of North Carolina’s toughest coastal issues. When collapsing oceanfront structures scattered debris along miles of shoreline, he removed barriers and mobilized swift action to protect visitors, water quality, and fragile habitats. He also partnered with the state and diverse stakeholders to craft long-term solutions for the National Seashore, adjacent property owners, and surrounding communities. At Buxton’s Formerly Used Defense Site, he continues to champion the federal cleanup and restoration efforts of the beach to protect public health and environmental resources. The Pelican Award recognizes his leadership, dedication, partnership, and unwavering commitment to preserving our coast.
Central Coastal Region Awards
Friends of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail
For Dedicated Partnership to Protect and Restore Coastal Water Quality and Habitats
The Friends of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail is recognized for their partnership in the acquisition of nearly 783 acres to expand the North River Wetlands Preserve. The Friends’ mission to improve the Mountains-to-Sea Trail route through eastern North Carolina works in tandem with the Federation’s land conservation efforts. Over several years, the Friends team and Federation staff explored a variety of options for planning the Mountains-to-Sea Trail through North River Wetlands Preserve. When additional funding was made available to them, the Friends team jumped on the opportunity to contribute $449,000 toward the $1,899,000 needed to purchase the ideal tract of land that would keep hikers off major highways. The Friends teamed up with the Federation to negotiate with the landowner to bring the deal to fruition. The Federation gains a secondary access to the Preserve, a true thru-hike trail, and an excellent wetland restoration opportunity.
Jessica Guilianelli,
Natural and Cultural Resources Manager, MCAS Cherry Point
For Supporting, Promoting, and Advancing the Use of Living Shorelines
Jessica Guilianelli, Natural and Cultural Resources Manager at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, is recognized for her outstanding leadership in implementing a living shoreline project along the Neuse River that aligns environmental restoration with mission readiness. In response to more than 100 feet of shoreline erosion, which was worsened by Hurricane Florence in 2018, Jessica led a nature-based, hybrid approach combining the repair of critical bulkheads with the installation of approximately 12,000 feet of living shorelines and 130,000 native marsh plants to reduce wave energy and restore habitat. She was instrumental in securing funding, permits, and partnerships, including collaboration with the Federation to construct 2,029 feet of the living shoreline using grants from the N.C.Land and Water Fund and the Department of Defense Readiness and Environmental Protection Integration Program, administered by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation. Jessica’s innovative and mission-focused leadership has positioned the military base as a model for sustainable shoreline management.
Lauren Johnson and Tamarr Moore
For Partnership and Inspiration to Advance the Next Generation of Coastal Professionals
Lauren Johnson and Tamarr Moore recently earned their master’s degrees in Earth, Environmental, and Geospatial Sciences from North Carolina Central University, guided by their advisor, Dr. Carresse Gerald. As the very first graduates of a pioneering NOAA-supported grant program intentionally focused on uplifting students of color in environmental sciences, they represent a new wave of restoration professionals. With passion and determination, Lauren and Tamarr stepped into their roles as trailblazers, building bridges between their university and the world of coastal science. They fully immersed themselves in coastal life—working alongside the Federation, RTI International, and NC State University to research levels of PFAS and heavy metals in oysters. As women of color thriving in spaces where representation has long been limited, Lauren and Tamarr are helping to break barriers and pave the way for future generations who dream of careers in restoration and environmental science.
Central Coastal Region Awards
Alan Cradick
For Outstanding Volunteer Service to Our Coast
Through his lens, Alan Cradick has brought the story of our coast to life. A former member of the Southeast Advisory Committee, Alan has generously shared his time, energy, and professional photography skills to capture the moments that define our mission. From muddy marsh plantings and oyster reef construction to community events like the Roast for the Coast, Alan has been there documenting the hands, faces, and places that make coastal protection possible. His images highlight both the hard work of volunteers and staff and the beauty and resilience of our coast. Alan’s photography serves as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when people come together for the environment. His work has elevated the Federation’s outreach and inspired countless others to care for our coast. We proudly honor Alan Cradick for his outstanding volunteer service and the lasting impact of his remarkable images.
Feletia Lee and Anna Reh-Gingerich
For Dedicated Partnership and Commitment to Advance Watershed Restoration
The Bradley and Hewletts Creek watersheds have long struggled with stormwater runoff stemming from urban development and land use changes. To tackle this challenge, the City of Wilmington launched the Heal Our Waterways Program to install targeted solutions and engage the community in ways to reduce runoff. Recognizing UNC-Wilmington as the largest landowner in the Bradley Creek watershed, Anna Reh-Gingerich, the Program’s watershed coordinator, and Feletia Lee, the university’s chief sustainability officer, made campus-based stormwater solutions a key priority. Their mission: reduce polluted runoff at the University, involve students and the community, and showcase strategies others can adopt. Teaming with the Coastal Federation, Anna and Feletia turned vision into action, installing rain gardens, permeable parking, and native landscaping across campus. These projects collectively soak up to 663,430 gallons of rain per storm, preventing millions of gallons of polluted runoff each year. Tonight, we celebrate Anna and Feletia’s leadership, partnership, and unwavering commitment; they are a true driving force for a healthier, more resilient Bradley Creek watershed.
We the Water
For Excellence in Community Education and Inspiration for Coastal Protection and Restoration
We the Water is more than a paddling journey; it’s a powerful movement of connection, culture, and coastal advocacy. Over 340 miles in a traditional Hawaiian outrigger canoe, a dedicated team traveled the North Carolina coast, meeting communities, listening to voices from inland to ocean, and raising awareness about the importance of clean water. Along the way, they endured sun, storms, and long miles but never lost sight of their mission: to inspire others to care for the waters that unite us. Their effort raised over $50,000 for the Federation and sparked meaningful conversations across the state. By blending Hawaiian traditions with North Carolina’s natural story, We the Water created a moving tribute to community, stewardship, and resilience. Their synchronized journey is a lasting metaphor for the teamwork coastal protection requires. We proudly honor We the Water for bridging cultures and making waves for change one stroke at a time.
Coastwide Awards
North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries, Habitat Enhancement Section
For Dedicated Service and Collaboration for Oyster Habitat Creation
For over 25 years, the NC Division of Marine Fisheries’ Habitat Enhancement Section has partnered with the Federation to rebuild the state’s oyster population and restore critical oyster reef habitat. Their work spans expanded cultch planting coastwide and reef construction within the Sen. Jean Preston Memorial Oyster Sanctuary network in the Pamlico Sound, supported by the NC General Assembly and NOAA. By the end of 2024, 423 acres of sanctuary reef were constructed, covering 789 acres of protected underwater habitat. In 2025 and 2026, construction continues with 47 acres and 40 acres planned, exceeding the 500-acre goal. Additionally, DMF built four acres of reef in the lower Cape Fear River and used their new flagship vessel, the RV Oyster Creek, to build the first all-shell reef in over a decade in New Hanover County. Throughout these efforts, staff manage permits, contracts, vessels, equipment, and construction oversight with professionalism, dedication, and collaboration—ensuring excellence, cost-effectiveness, and broad public engagement.
Worth Creech
For Advancing Community Oyster Shell Recycling and Coastal Restoration
Worth Creech has been a transformative force in oyster shell recycling and coastal restoration. Through tireless dedication, community engagement, and innovative thinking, Worth has elevated public awareness and participation in shell recycling programs, ensuring a vital resource is used to rebuild coastal ecosystems. His leadership has fostered significant growth in local recycling partnerships, increased shell collection volumes, and strengthened collaboration among restaurants, volunteers, and restoration professionals. Worth’s efforts have directly contributed to restoring oyster habitats, enhancing biodiversity, and protecting shorelines from erosion. Beyond ecological outcomes, Worth has cultivated a culture of environmental stewardship within the community, inspiring others to take action for the coast. In every project and outreach effort, he demonstrates how passion, innovation, and persistence can create meaningful, lasting impact. This award honors Worth Creech’s exceptional commitment to community-driven solutions and his unwavering dedication to a healthier, more sustainable coast.
The Kenan Fellows Program for Teacher Leadership
For Cultivating Coastal Collaboration and Empowering Educators
The Kenan Fellows Program for Teacher Leadership at NC State University empowers educators across the state to lead both in their classrooms and communities. Through immersive experiences and professional development, the program equips K–12 teachers with the tools to inspire the next generation of learners. For many years, the Program has connected educators to our coast, bringing lessons on coastal science, resilience, and stewardship to students statewide. Teachers engage in intensive year-long fellowships as well as unique field experiences, including the Mountains to Sea Scholars initiative. Along the way, the program has built lasting partnerships with coastal organizations such as the Federation, Core Sound Waterfowl Museum and Heritage Center, university marine labs, and state and national parks. These collaborations create powerful opportunities for teachers to explore coastal STEM resources firsthand, ensuring they return to their classrooms with knowledge, inspiration, and authentic stories to share.
John Harris
For Outstanding Business and Community Collaboration to Advance Coastal Stewardship
In 1997, attorney John Harris helped the Federation protect 30 acres of maritime forest at Hoop Pole Creek in Atlantic Beach before it became a major condo and marina project. This landmark $2.5 million deal was the first property in the state purchased with the then-new NC Clean Water Management Trust Fund. Since that pivotal moment, John has been a driving force behind the conservation of nearly 15,000 coastal acres, protecting our coast for future generations. The Federation has turned to him repeatedly to navigate dozens of complex real estate transactions. Beyond his paid work, John generously donates countless hours of pro bono legal guidance that strengthens our land protection efforts. Raised on a Moore County farm, John has practiced law in Morehead City since 1984. A humble yet influential leader, his impact on our coast is profound.
Lifetime Achievement Awards
David Cignotti
For Outstanding Community Leadership, Collaboration, and Dedication to Coastal Stewardship
David Cignotti exemplifies what it means to be a dedicated coastal steward. A lifelong educator, former mayor of Wrightsville Beach, and longtime volunteer with the Federation, David’s quiet leadership and unwavering commitment have left a lasting impact on both people and place. From mentoring young volunteers and leading marine education programs to paddling local waterways, collecting trash, he consistently shows up with humility, heart, and purpose. David’s connection to the North Carolina coast runs deep. This isn’t just where he lives, it’s part of who he is. He brings neighbors, students, and fellow advocates together, reminding us that protecting our coast is a shared responsibility. The Pelican Award recognizes those who go above and beyond and David does just that, leading by example with sincerity and strength. We’re proud to honor him for his decades of service and his enduring dedication to our coastal community.
Hans Pearl
For a Distinguished Career Dedicated to Coastal Research, Protection, and Restoration
Hans W. Paerl has devoted his career to uncovering the secrets of healthy waterways and applying that knowledge to protect our coast. As Kenan Professor of Marine and Environmental Sciences at UNC’s Institute of Marine Sciences, Hans was the driving force behind the FerryMon program, equipping NCDOT ferries for long-term water quality monitoring in the Albemarle-Pamlico Sound. He has led groundbreaking, interdisciplinary research on how nutrients and climate affect water quality, the formation of harmful algal blooms, and strategies to safeguard estuaries and coastal waters for future generations. With more than 600 scientific publications, seven major awards, and a legacy of mentoring future scientists, his work has influenced stronger policies, improved management, and lasting restoration across North Carolina and beyond. Hans’s many honors, including the G. Evelyn Hutchinson Award, the Odum Award, and a lifetime achievement award from the U.S. National Harmful Algal Bloom Committee, reflect his immense contributions to estuarine ecology. The Pelican Award celebrates Hans’s lifelong dedication to cleaner waters, resilient coastlines, and thriving coastal communities.
To learn more about the Pelican Awards and past winners: