Help Us Celebrate Good Works in Our Member Cities
Each month in 2025, the Board of Port Commissioners will celebrate Port community partners making a positive impact in communities around San Diego Bay.
Any individual, business, or nonprofit can be nominated by community members, the Board of Port Commissioners, and Port staff. Read on to learn more and click the link to submit a nomination.
Submit a nomination here
July Honoree: Ocean Connectors
On July 15, the Board of Port Commissioners recognized Ocean Connectors with an Anchors of Excellence Award for their continued service to the public in the areas of sustainability and environmental stewardship.
“It is an honor to recognize Ocean Connectors with the Port of San Diego’s Anchors of Excellence Award,” said Chair Danielle Moore of the Board of Port Commissioners. “Ocean Connectors has been an outstanding partner in educating the next generation about sustainability and environmental stewardship around San Diego Bay. Through hands-on learning and innovative programming, they inspire local students to connect with our waterfront and take an active role in protecting it for a more sustainable future.”
2025 Honorees
Clean Coast Collaborative and Youth Climate Advisors
On January 14, the Board of Port Commissioners honored Clean Coast Collaborative and Youth Climate Advisors.
Click here to read more about these organizations.
February Honoree: Harvey Family Foundation
On February 11, the Board of Port Commissioners honored the Harvey Family Foundation.
Click here to read more about the Harvey Family Foundation.
March Honoree: Sharia's Closet
On March 11, the Board of Port Commissioners honored Sharia's Closet.
Click here to read more about the Sharia's Closet.
April Honoree: Olivewood Gardens and Learning Center
On April 15, the Board of Port Commissioners honored Olivewood Gardens and Learning Center.
Click here to read more about Olivewood Gardens.
May Honoree: Metropolitan Area Advisory Committee
On May 6, the Board of Port Commissioners honored the Metropolitan Area Advisory Committee (MAAC).
June Honoree: Emerald Keepers
On June 6, the Board of Port Commissioners honored Emerald Keepers.
July Honoree: Ocean Connectors
On July 15, the Board of Port Commissioners honored Ocean Connectors.
Award Criteria
Here is some of the criteria Port staff will take into consideration when reviewing all nominations:
- Alignment with Port values of Accountability, Courage, Inclusiveness, Fairness, Fun, Innovation, Integrity, Teamwork, and Transparency.
- Geographic diversity to ensure representation from all five Port member cities: Chula Vista, Coronado, Imperial Beach, National City, and San Diego.


Themes
- Youth engagement and leadership
- Cultural heritage and diversity
- Resilience and disaster preparedness
- Sustainability and environmental stewardship
- Maritime heritage and education
- Port development and infrastructure
- Community health and well-being
- Transportation and connectivity
- Climate action and green initiatives
- Arts and Public Spaces
- Economic Development and Innovation
- Community service and volunteerism
“The Port of San Diego is proud to highlight the positive impacts made by local community members, businesses, and nonprofit organizations. As a leader in community engagement, public participation, and open government, we will continue to acknowledge the incredible work being done throughout our member cities with the Anchors of Excellence Awards." - Port Chair Danielle Moore