His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew to Receive The Stony Brook Council University Medal

Public Is Invited to September 20 Medal Ceremony at Stony Brook Southampton

In recognition of his efforts on behalf of climate action, faith-based environmentalism and fostering interfaith dialogue, His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, the spiritual leader of the Eastern Orthodox Church, will receive The Stony Brook Council University Medal on Saturday, September 20 at Stony Brook Southampton.

The event, "Oceans of Hope: The Green Patriarch Recognizes Stony Brook Southampton's Marine Sciences Mission," will take place at noon at the Avram Theater. The medal ceremony is open to the public and free tickets are available to reserve online.

The University Medal is the highest form of recognition awarded by Stony Brook, reserved for individuals who have had a significant and lasting impact on the university and community.

Known in Europe as the "Green Patriarch," His All-Holiness has taken the lead among all religious leaders in his concern for the environment. He has initiated seminars and dialogues to discuss the need for the mobilization of moral and spiritual forces to achieve harmony between humanity and nature.

"We are honored to welcome Green Patriarch Bartholomew to Stony Brook Southampton, where our 84-acre campus overlooking Shinnecock Bay and the Atlantic inspires a deep commitment to environmental stewardship," said Wendy Pearson, executive director of Stony Brook Southampton and vice president of strategic initiatives for Stony Brook University. "Through national initiatives like the FoodLab, the School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences, and Semester by the Sea - and our collaborations with Shinnecock Nation and Mission Blue - we unite research, education and community partnerships to protect natural resources and build long-term sustainability. This occasion reflects our shared vision for a future where science, innovation, and community protect our land and sea."

His All-Holiness has been recognized internationally for his dedication to the environment by Presidents Joe Biden, Barack Obama and George W. Bush, as well as by the United Nations and theJohn Templeton Foundation, for which he was awarded the $1 million Templeton Prizefor his efforts at the intersection of faith and science. His visit to Stony Brook Southampton is timed with the Orthodox Church's Day of the Environment on September 1 and the awarding of the 2025 Templeton Prize.