The Deering Estate Foundation and the Deering Estate recognized their 2025 Champion Partners of the Year on January 21, 2026, according to the organization’s official press release. The award honors individuals and groups who contributed their time, expertise, and resources to support the preservation and enhancement of the Estate.
At the event, R.J. Heisenbottle Architects was named the 2025 Restoration and Preservation Partner of the Year for their work on the Stone House Restoration Project at the Deering Estate, demonstrating attention to architectural integrity and historical preservation. Amerant Bank received the 2025 Corporate Partner of the Year award for its community-focused support, including guidance provided through Carole Wright’s long-standing service on the Deering Estate Foundation Board of Directors, according to Miami-Dade County.
Art and nature were also recognized at the event. Barron Sherer received the 2025 Programming Partner of the Year award for contributions to the Deering Estate’s film programs. The 2025 Community Partner of the Year honors went to musicians such as Susana Behar and sustainability advocate Eric Tulberg of the Green Mobility Network for their work within the community. Volunteers Beth Person, Melody Carrion Nunez, and Jerrod Sharp were recognized as the 2025 Volunteers of the Year for their dedicated service.
Organizations such as Baptist Health Miami Cancer Institute and the University of Miami Shark Research and Conservation Program were also recognized for their community contributions, as detailed in the press release. Additionally, Louis Aguirre of WPLG and State Senator Alexis Calatayud received the William N. Irvine Stewardship Award for their efforts in promoting environmental sustainability and educational initiatives in South Florida.
The Deering Estate Foundation’s recognition of its 2025 Champion Partners highlights the contributions of individuals and organizations that have supported the Estate through time, expertise, and resources. The full press release, including a photo gallery of the event, is available on the Foundation’s official website.
