THURS D AY , M A Y 2 8 , 202 6 CENTRAL
WHERE GREATNESS MEETS JOY: A NIGHT TO REMEMBER WHY PLAY MATTERS
Celebrates BILL EAKINS for his decades of service to Asphalt Green and the Murphy Charitable Fund and all that Bill has done to support, nurture and guide both entities for the betterment of youth.
for being honored with the 2025 USA Water Polo Zone Award for Development.
- AGUA Water Polo Families
Head Coach, AGUA Water Polo
Junior Men’s National Team
Head Coach, USA Water Polo
Congratulations and Thank You
For helping to form, advise, counsel and guide
The George E. and Annette Cross Murphy Charitabl e Fund and its trustees since the Fund’s inception so it can be an impactful source of support to Asphalt Green and other entities. The Murphy Fund and its trustees could not have done it without you. Thank you Bill.
David W. Dickey and Kevin G. Ennis, Trustees
Zesiger
Relentless in his commitment. The teammate everyone counts on. The MVP we are proud to honor.
- Barrie Zesiger (& Al in spirit)
Bill, When our paths first crossed almost 25 years ago, you were already an institution at Asphalt Green. Every day since then, your wisdom, dedication, thoughtfulness, and sly sense of humor have helped grow Asphalt Green’s impact in ways big and small. In particular, your ability to foster innovation and your willingness to invest in critical but often unseen pieces of Asphalt Green have unlocked countless opportunities for all New Yorkers. Thank you for being a steadfast steward of our past and a tireless champion for our future.
Caroline Hribar Asphalt Green Board Chair
Witnessing Joy and Play During Cocktail Hour
Caroline Hribar, Board Chair, Reflecting on Greatness
Jordan Brackett, Chief Executive Officer, Expanding our Impact
William S. Eakins, Esq.
The George E. and Annette Cross Murphy Trust Foundation
Presented to: Ashleigh Johnson
Two-time Olympic Gold Medalist
U.S. Women’s Water Polo Team
Jamie McDonald Leads the Pack
POWER
Jordan Brackett
Asphalt Green’s Stories that Move
CHAIR
Caroline Hribar
VICE-CHAIR
Christa A. D’Alimonte
TREASURER
Paul Sherrington
SECRETARY
Robert Milam
MEMBERS
Kimberly A. Burd
Justin Derfner
William S. Eakins
Kirsten J. Feldman
Rowdy Gaines
Ruben Harris
Aloysee Heredia Jarmoszuk
Samuel J. Jemal
David Levin
David Mitnick
Lia Neal
Thomas Newman
Andrew J. Nussbaum
Damon Pazzaglini
John A. Porges
Travis Rundlet
Patricia A. Saunders
June Slowik
Locky Trachsel
Barrie R. Zesiger
HONORARY BOARD
Robert R. Cross
EMERITUS BOARD MEMBER
Albert L. Zesiger
FOUNDERS
Annette Cross Murphy
George E. Murphy, MD
Dear Friends of Asphalt Green,
With your support, Asphalt Green has accomplished so much this year.
At a time when so many New Yorkers cannot swim, our groundbreaking Wave Makers initiative is paving the way to ensure that every New York City student receives swim instruction. As children spend more time alone and online, Asphalt Green’s sports and recreational programs serve tens of thousands of young athletes, helping them live active, healthier, and more connected lives. When fewer than a quarter of New York’s older adults meet the recommended physical activity guidelines, our free older adult fitness program helps New Yorkers find their community and feel stronger.
After celebrating our Inclusive Programs at last year’s gala, we are leading our industry in providing accessible physical education and making Asphalt Green inclusive to New Yorkers of all abilities. Our competitive teams continue to rank among the best in the country, sending athletes to top colleges, professional academies, and even the Olympic Games. And after a year as the official operator of the Major R. Owens Health and Wellness Community Center in Crown Heights, Brooklyn, we’ve reached more New Yorkers than ever before.
And you have made it all possible.
As we come together tonight to celebrate the progress we have made and imagine what we can achieve, I hope you share my pride in your contribution to making New York a city of sports, fitness, and play for all. The generosity and dedication of our staff, friends, and supporters is making a lasting impact, transforming lives and building community across every borough.
But the best part is, we’re only getting started.
As we look ahead, we will continue to explore ways to deepen our impact and reach even more people. Our work will continue until every New Yorker can access the transformative benefits of physical activity, and when Asphalt Green has become the most trusted leader in sports, fitness, and play.
In good health,
Jordan Brackett Chief Executive Officer
Caroline Hribar Board Chair
For more than 50 years, Asphalt Green has been shaped by the belief that excellence and accessibility are mutually reinforcing values. This evening, we are proud to honor William S. Eakins for five decades of devoted service as a Board Member and representative of The George E. and Annette Cross Murphy Charitable Fund. Through William’s leadership, the Murphys’ founding vision has blossomed into a vital piece of New York City’s civic heart. We invite you to join us in celebrating Bill’s extraordinary legacy — a tribute to the stewardship that allows a great vision to endure.
WILLIAM S. EAKINS has been a champion for Asphalt Green over the course of five decades, both as a longstanding member of the Asphalt Green Board of Directors and as counsel to the George E. and Annette Cross Murphy Charitable Fund, a foundation established under the Will of Dr. George E. Murphy and further funded under the Will of Annette Cross Murphy, Asphalt Green’s founders.
Bill grew up in Glen Cove, Long Island, surrounded by water and appreciating the essential importance (not to mention the fun) of learning to swim. Coming from an athletic family, sports and exercise were part of life. Clubs, summer camp, and grade school all allowed Bill to stay active through athletics. When Bill received an EnglishSpeaking Union Scholarship to England’s King’s School, he placed sixth out of 700 in a school-wide 10K run, starting a lifelong passion for running.
Following his studies in England, Bill attended Yale and then earned his law degree from Cornell. He began his career with JPMorgan before practicing law in Manhattan for 50 years. His professional journey featured a strong commitment to civic service: in his twenties, he created subsidized home-sharing and respite care programs for New York seniors and used his expertise in government to secure ongoing funding for them. His leadership also included several appointive positions in New York City and State government, and later in Asheville, North Carolina, where he acquired a residence in 2008. As legislative counsel to the state senate majority, he played a key role in shaping New York State’s tax enforcement laws and significant tax reforms during the 1980s. In addition, he currently serves on the board of the New York Foundation for Senior Citizens.
Bill first heard George Murphy outline his vision for the former Municipal Asphalt Plant site while serving as Vice Chair of Manhattan’s East Side community board. He joined Asphalt Green’s early fundraisers and steam table buffets in the Chapin School dining room. When George later learned that Bill worked at The Morgan Bank, he approached him after becoming disappointed in the size of a Morgan donation. Bill has been a leading supporter of Asphalt Green ever since.
Inspired by the legacy of Asphalt Green founders, the Zesiger Award of Excellence acknowledges leaders from the athletic world who have fought for greater access, inclusion, and opportunity in sports. This year’s deserving Zesiger Award of Excellence winner is Ashleigh Johnson.
Ashleigh is the first African American woman to make a U.S. Olympic Women’s Water Polo Team and is a two-time Olympic Gold Medalist. But despite breaking barriers and reaching the pinnacle of her sport, Ashleigh’s legacy extends far beyond the water.
Throughout her athletic career, Ashleigh has used her platform to advocate for access to swimming and water safety. Her efforts exemplify Asphalt Green’s commitment to swimming for all through programs like Wave Makers, which brings free swimming lessons to second graders across New York City.
Ashleigh’s award arrives at a moment when Asphalt Green’s Water Polo program has grown larger than ever. This past year, AGUA Water Polo sent a program graduate to Ashleigh’s alma mater, Princeton University. In September, we hosted Pro Recco and FTC Telekon in an exhibition match alongside the teams from UCLA and Princeton University, showcasing the sport at both the highest professional and collegiate levels. Ashleigh’s award recognizes that learning to swim can be just the beginning of a life of joy and achievement through the water.
PREVIOUS ZESIGER AWARD OF EXCELLENCE RECIPIENTS
2025
// KIMBERLY A. BURD Advocate for Children with Medically Complex Diseases
2024
// TIM HINCHEY III President & CEO of USA Swimming
HOW WE BRING SPORTS, FITNESS & PLAY TO ALL
$12 MILLION
Awarded in free and subsidized programs and scholarships
14,000+
Students who received the CDC recommended amount of daily exercise through our Recess Enhancement Program this fiscal year.
$40 MILLION+
Provided to teach an unprecedented number of New Yorkers how to swim.
Annual visits across our campuses in pursuit of active & healthier lives.
Number of students enrolled in Asphalt Green’s Inclusive Programs since its launch last year.
1.5 MILLION+
400+
60,000
Total free swim lessons forecasted for our Wave Makers initiative this year.
Bid on one-of-a-kind experiences curated for an unforgettable night. Every paddle raised supports sports, fitness, and play for all. Pick up your paddle and give with joy! Select a giving level and join us in building a stronger, more active New York City for everyone. Giving levels:
It is with deep sadness that Asphalt Green mourns the passing of David F. Oliver, a remarkable leader, attorney, and advocate whose legacy has left an indelible mark on Kansas City and beyond.
David’s life was defined by his generosity of spirit and his unwavering commitment to civic service. As a trustee of the George E. and Annette Cross Murphy Charitable Fund, he was a model of the values Asphalt Green’s founders held dear: service, community, and the belief that the talents of one individual can inspire change for many. His example reminds us of the power of leadership grounded in kindness and the importance of giving back.
The entire Asphalt Green community extends our heartfelt condolences to David’s family, colleagues, and the many friends and organizations touched by his life and work. His contributions will endure as part of the fabric of the communities he so passionately supported.
THANK YOU & CONGRATULATIONS
This year, Jeanne Yoa-Reese announced her retirement from the organization after more than 22 years of dedicated service.
It is hard to imagine Asphalt Green without Jeanne. She hired nearly every current staff member, guided employees through milestones and transitions, and served as a trusted source of wisdom, steadiness, and care. While Jeanne’s work has focused on Asphalt Green’s human resources functions, her impact extends far beyond. She has touched the lives of so many who make up the Asphalt Green community and created an enduring culture of excellence and kindness.
PLEASE JOIN US IN EXTENDING OUR GRATITUDE TO JEANNE FOR DEFINING WHAT IT MEANS TO BE A PART OF ASPHALT GREEN.
IN HONOR OF OUR BOARD OF DIRECTORS, HONOREE WILLIAM EAKINS, AND ZESIGER AWARD WINNER ASHLEIGH JOHNSON, WHOSE LEADERSHIP INSPIRES US TO BRING SPORTS, FITNESS, AND PLAY TO ALL.
— Amy & Jordan Brackett
for being the leader in adaptive programming, where ALL truly means ALL. Baron wouldn’t be playing soccer and swimming if it weren’t for your adaptive coaches.
— Kimberly A. Burd —
To witness and experience the joy of watching parent’s faces as their children swim across our pool is why I am honored to be a part of this amazing organization.
Thank you Asphalt Green for bringing joy and water safety to children for almost 35 years.
Samuel Jemal Asphalt Green Board Member
ASPHALT GREEN CONGRATULATES ASHLEIGH JOHNSON, THIS YEAR’S ZESIGER AWARD RECIPIENT FOR PROVING THAT GREATNESS IS NOT JUST MEASURED IN GOLD, BUT IN HOW YOU LIFT OTHERS ALONG THE WAY.
and the amazing coaches and staff of Asphalt Green Soccer Club, including Coach Adam and Coach Juan.
Joanne, Paul, Henry, Ian George & Lilyann Sherrington
SPORTS, FITNESS, AND PLAY FOR ALL
to everyone at Asphalt Green who works tirelessly to make a reality every day.
The Slowik Family
We'd like to send a shout out to the remarkable facilities, maintenance, and operations staff at Asphalt Green who work so hard on behalf of the entire AG community. The abundance of programs offered, from aquatics and sports to fitness and camps, would not be possible without their tireless efforts year-round. We appreciate you all... and thanks for everything!
One Love, Nikki, Dave, Max & Zach Levin
ASPHALT GREEN HONORS WILLIAM S. EAKINS, WHO KNOWS FIRSTHAND THAT EVERY MILE EVERY MISSION PURSUING TAKES HEART, DEDICATION, AND A GREAT TEAM BEHIND YOU. THANK YOU, BILL, FOR BEING PART OF OURS.
You turn up for all our kids not only when the weather is cold and miserable but also when they need a lift when the going gets really tough. You are helping them become better versions of themselves by instilling in them a belief they can always reach a higher level with hard work and commitment.
As our kids continue to grow both in maturity and strength it’s really reassuring that all of you are there helping them through this extraordinary time of their lives. Learning to manage the ups and downs of anything competitive are the building blocks to life. I cannot imagine a better team to guide them.
Thank you for all you do for them. Means more than you’ll ever know to all us Mums and Dads as we watch our kids thrive at Asphalt Green!
We are so proud of our AG1 swimmers for their hard work, determination, and incredible accomplishments throughout the season— you continue to inspire us every day. And special thanks to our amazing AG1 coaches - your dedication and leadership make all the difference. Thank you for everything you do!
- John & Min Huss
in honor of AJN by THEO.
Tom Newman and Samantha Schreiber celebrate Bill Eakins for his ongoing service to Asphalt Green. He brings thoughtful insight, unwavering commitment, and inspiring leadership.
Thanks Bill!
Newman
Thank you for sharing a commitment to expanding water safety, bringing lifesaving skills to more kids, and inspiring health and fitness for all.
Whether on the pitch or under Friday night lights, WILLA, STANLEY & MATTHEW SHAPIRO proudly support Asphalt Green
Shapiro
is proud to support Asphalt Green’s mission to promote health, fitness and well being for all New Yorkers.
GFP REAL ESTATE AND NORTHWIND GROUP ARE PROUD TO SUPPORT ASPHALT GREEN in honoring
The George E. and Annette Cross Murphy Charitable Fund, William S. Eakins & Ashleigh Johnson
Milam
congratulates Asphalt Green, AGUA, and our swim coaches—your hard work and dedication made waves, and we are cheering you on!
would like to thank the AGUA Coaching Staff (especially Jeff, Andy, Taylor, Isaac, Amy, and Youngho), Max, Leaf, and Isa from Mixed Martial Arts, Katie, and the Asphalt Green Summer Day Camp Staff along with Clyde and Madelyn from Fitness training.
The Guerrerio Family Foundation is dedicated to Asphalt Green’s mission of transforming lives and strengthening community through sports, fitness, and play for all—especially through its support of the Water Polo program.
along with J.A. Faccibene and Associates, would like to thank the Asphalt Green Family for many years of fitness challenges, good health, and a great business relationship!
We are proud to support the efforts of so many in advancing Asphalt Green’s mission to deliver sports, fitness, and play to all.
Thank you to all the coaches and staff members at Asphalt Green — your dedication shapes more than athletes; it shapes lives. We feel lucky to be part of the Asphalt Green family.
The Healy Family
Thank you so much to the AGUA Water Polo coaches!! AGUA Water Polo has had an incredible impact on our son Zachary, and we’re so proud of the program’s growth and success! We’re excited for a bright future for the program!
With gratitude,
Keri Larkin & Brian Vollmer
TO OUR BASKETBALL COACHES, THANK YOU FOR SHOWING UP EVERY DAY WITH PATIENCE, PASSION, AND PURPOSE. YOU ARE SHAPING MORE THAN PLAYERS. YOU ARE SHAPING PEOPLE.
- AG Basketball Parents
ASPHALT GREEN THANKS ALI WRIGHT, FOR MAKING WAVES. YOUR 2026 TURNING THE TIDE SWIM-A-THON HAS RAISED OVER $140,000 FOR WATERPROOFING AT ASPHALT GREEN, CHANGING LIVES ONE LAP AT A TIME.
