Press Release Oct 27, 2017

Parks Group Honors Entrepreneur Norman C. Selby for Commitment to America’s National Parks

Gala honors Mr. Selby for his commitment and ongoing support for national parks.

New York, NY – Last night, the nation’s leading national park advocacy organization, National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA), hosted its New York City Gala at Gotham Hall to celebrate its work to protect America’s national parks. More than 250 guests were in attendance as NPCA honored entrepreneur and philanthropist, Norman C. Selby for his continued commitment to preserving America’s national parks. The event featured entertainment by legendary musicians Joan Jett and the Blackhearts.

“I’m honored to celebrate Norman’s leadership and years-long support for our national parks,” said Theresa Pierno, President and CEO for National Parks Conservation Association. “He has been an invaluable resource, contributing to our success in protecting these treasured places.”

A native New Yorker, Norman C. Selby has dedicated his life and time to his family, the world of healthcare and the great outdoors. Mr. Selby’s contribution to conservation began in 1986 when he joined the board of the Central Park Conservancy, working to make Central Park a world class urban park. Mr. Selby served on NPCA’s Board of Trustees for nearly a decade, strengthening support for all national parks and helping to raise the visibility of New York City’s 10 urban national parks including Gateway National Recreation Area. Most recently, Mr. Selby’s leadership helped to procure new directional and park road signs to enhance the visitor experience at General Grant National Memorial in New York City’s Riverside Park.

“Growing up in New York City, I saw early on how important parks are for our community,” said Norman Selby. “Our National Park System is just as important, and NPCA plays a crucial role in preserving and enhancing these places, including the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island here in my hometown. Whether they know it or not, all Americans benefit from the hard work of NPCA, and my goal is to make sure everyone knows it.”

“Through Norman’s participation in NPCA’s Board of Trustees, he has helped protect millions of acres of wilderness, stopped development adjacent to parks and improved air quality in and around national parks. His contributions have improved the experiences of visitors to national parks today and for years to come,” added Pierno.

NPCA’s New York Gala is a biennial event that draws hundreds of participants including elected officials, business leaders, representatives from the National Park Service and national park supporters. New York City Council Member Mark Levine presented the award to Mr. Selby. Co-Chairs for the event include Steve and Roberta Denning, Bill and Judy Walter and Tom and Cindy Secunda.

Please click here to view photos from the evening.

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About National Parks Conservation Association Since 1919, the nonpartisan National Parks Conservation Association has been the leading voice in safeguarding our national parks. NPCA and its more than 1.3 million members and supporters work together to protect and preserve our nation’s natural, historic, and cultural heritage for future generations. For more information, visit www.npca.org.