Aquarium of the Pacific Raises Critical Funds for Conservation Work, Rescue and Release Program, and Animal Care at the Blue Whale Gala and Summer Splash

June 29, 2026

The Aquarium of the Pacific's Blue Whale Gala and Summer Splash raised over $900,000 to support its animal rescue and release programs, marine species conservation initiatives, and science-based educational programming. Approximately 950 government and community leaders and philanthropists gathered at the non-profit Aquarium of the Pacific for a gourmet dinner, special presentations, and live and silent auctions.

"We are deeply grateful for the extraordinary support shown for our education and conservation initiatives," said Ryan Ashton, the Aquarium of the Pacific's vice president of development. "Because of our donors, we are creating lasting impact for learners of all ages and strengthening our conservation commitment for marine and coastal animals."

The gala featured an appearance by actress and animal advocate Joely Fisher, who interviewed Aquarium President and CEO Jeff Flocken about his achievements in conservation and animal welfare and the role of aquariums in the future of conservation. Among the activities, the evening was a celebration of the Aquarium's conservation efforts and impact with special experiences just for the Blue Whale Gala and Summer Splash guests. Attendees visiting the Aquarium's newest gallery, Jelly Dreamscapes, were able to see more than one hundred sea jellies found around the world. Aquarium education interpreters showed and explained to guests glowing bioluminescence.

Aquarium veterinary staff presented animal x-rays on screens at the Molina Animal Care Center to illustrate their work in helping rescued sea turtles get a chance to return to the wild. At the sea turtle rehabilitation area, attendees were able to meet Meatloaf, the Aquarium's rescued green sea turtle that is being cared for with the hope of release to the wild later this year. Aquarium aquarists (fish and invertebrate staff) also did a live feeding for the archerfish at the Coral Lagoon exhibit. These fish can shoot water with their mouths with incredible aim to capture insects and other prey items.

The Aquarium's education department also shared the Aquarium on Wheels, a mobile truck with local tidepool animals such as sea anemones, sea stars, and baby sharks to touch. This program connects schools and communities to our ocean backyard. Guests also had the chance to learn more about white abalone conservation at a special display at the Casino Point exhibit. The Aquarium of the Pacific has been committed to helping this endangered species since 2007, through breeding, rearing, releasing, and monitoring white abalone.

The Aquarium gives special thanks to the Blue Whale Gala presenting sponsor, Legends Global, and Fin Whale Sponsors: Giant Panda Management, Karl and Adam Pettijohn, Temple Family Charitable Foundation, and U.S. Bank. The Aquarium would also like to thank Summer Splash's presenting sponsor Marathon Petroleum Los Angeles Refinery.