His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, spiritual leader of the Eastern Orthodox Church, will be honored with The Stony Brook Council University Medal on September 20 at Stony Brook Southampton. The award recognizes his contributions to climate action, faith-based environmentalism, and efforts in promoting interfaith dialogue.
The ceremony, titled “Oceans of Hope: The Green Patriarch Recognizes Stony Brook Southampton’s Marine Sciences Mission,” will take place at noon in the Avram Theater. It is open to the public, and free tickets can be reserved online.
The University Medal is described as Stony Brook's highest recognition for individuals who have made a significant and lasting impact on the university and community.
Patriarch Bartholomew is often referred to as the “Green Patriarch” for his leadership among religious figures on environmental issues. He has organized seminars and dialogues focusing on mobilizing moral and spiritual support for 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.”
Internationally, Patriarch Bartholomew has received recognition from several U.S. presidents—Joe Biden, Barack Obama, George W. Bush—as well as organizations such as the United Nations. He was also awarded the $1 million Templeton Prize by the John Templeton Foundation for his work connecting faith with science. His visit coincides with both the Orthodox Church’s Day of the Environment on September 1 and this year’s awarding of the Templeton Prize.