On October 23, 2025, I had the great honor of being recognized at the Great Swamp Watershed Association’s (GSWA) Gala — an unforgettable evening that brought together friends, colleagues, donors, supporters, and kindred spirits from across New Jersey’s environmental community.
The honor meant so much to me personally because GSWA is where my professional journey began. Being chosen to serve as GSWA’s first Executive Director over 30 years ago changed the course of my life and set me on a path that ultimately led me to the New Jersey Highlands Coalition. It was a joy to be back among so many familiar faces, celebrating the shared mission that continues to unite us.
In my remarks that evening, I reflected on the people and moments that shaped my career — mentors like Helen Fenske, Abbie Fair, Candy Ashmun, and Sally Dudley — remarkable women who built the foundation of New Jersey’s environmental movement. I spoke about perseverance, about the power of showing up, and about how progress often takes far longer than we wish.
“There’s no such thing as a done deal,” I reminded everyone. “If you do turn up, you might make a difference.”
That belief — that turning up matters — is what has guided me throughout my career. And it’s what makes your continued support of the New Jersey Highlands Coalition so meaningful. Every policy we champion, every acre we help protect, every community we empower — it all happens because of people like you, who care enough to keep showing up.
I’m also deeply grateful to our trustees who underwrote the cost of staff tickets so that our team could attend the gala. Many trustees, colleagues, and representatives from member organizations were in the room that night, which made the occasion even more special. Seeing so many members of our extended Highlands family come together filled me with pride and gratitude.
As a keepsake, please enjoy “A Limerick for Julia Somers”, written by Dr. Lynn L. Siebert for the occasion. It’s a beautiful, witty, and touching tribute that captures the spirit of the evening far better than I ever could.
And for a little fun — our Director of Policy and Communications, Elliott Ruga, produced a short video of “roast” clips submitted by friends and colleagues who wanted to celebrate with humor and heart. I hope it makes you smile as much as it did me. You can watch it here*:
Assemblywoman Aura Dunn was there in person to present the NJ resolution on behalf of Senator Anthony Bucco and herself. Congresswoman Sherrill’s office had Bill Kibler present the congressional resolution on their behalf, but the Congresswoman is also featured in the video “roast”.
Thank you for standing with us, for believing in the work we do, and for being part of this incredible journey. Together, we continue to make a lasting difference for the New Jersey Highlands and for all who depend on its waters, forests, and open spaces.
With deepest gratitude,
Julia Somers
Executive Director
New Jersey Highlands Coalition
*Thank you to all the video contributors (in order of appearance): Dot Stillinger, Chris Hepburn, Judy Krull, Liz Parker, Ned Kirby, Emile DeVito, Bill Leavens and Margaret Nordstrom, Sen. John McKeon, Cindy Ehrenclou, Charlie Brown buy – Ben Spinelli, Daniel Somers, Rep. Mikie Sherrill, Frank Zammataro, David Budd, Gov. Tom Kean, Doug Wheat, and Sen. Bob Smith
