Celebrating Champions of Conservation: PTNY’s Perkins Reception Honors Two Visionaries

Will you be there for our annual George W. Perkins Reception at City Winery in New York City? On October 21, we’re hosting a special evening to recognize two extraordinary leaders whose work has made a profound difference in protecting New York’s public lands: Dr. Lucy R. Rockefeller Waletzky and Robert J. Kafin, Esq.

Dr. Lucy R. Waletzky

Dr. Lucy R. Waletzky is a doctor, conservationist, and longtime champion for parks, wildlife, and public health. From chairing the New York State Council of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation to founding and guiding master plans and biodiversity studies for treasured land preserves like Rockefeller State Park, she has devoted decades to ensuring that public lands are protected.

Her efforts also include advocacy for reducing pesticide usage, creating “No Pesticides Day,” and partnering with Audubon and other environmental groups to safeguard habitats for birds and wildlife. Through philanthropy, service, and action, she has repeatedly translated vision into lasting change across New York State.

Robert J. Kafin, Esq.

Robert J. Kafin has spent his career at the intersection of law, policy, and environmental advocacy. A seasoned environmental attorney based in New York, Robert has handled landmark regulatory policy work, and advised conservation organizations–including chairing the Adirondack Council, founding the Environmental Practice Group at Proskauer Rose LLP, the Council on the Environment of New York City (now GrowNYC), and PTNY to name few.

What stands out about Bob’s service is not just his mastery of complex environmental law, but his ability to communicate it into actionable plans, and engaging communities to support clean air, clean water, and protected landscapes. His lifetime of public service exemplifies how legal tools and civic persistence can safeguard public lands.

Join Us in Saluting Them

We hope you’ll join PTNY October 21 at City Winery to help us celebrate Dr. Lucy R. Waletzky and Robert J. Kafin, Esq., and to support our ongoing work to protect and enhance the parks, trails, and wild spaces that enrich all our lives. Buy your tickets here.