At the Alliance for the Great Lakes, we believe that impact doesn’t always come from the spotlight—it comes from showing up, speaking out, and staying the course.
Every year at our signature event, the Great Blue Benefit, we shine that spotlight on a select group of individuals whose leadership, vision, and deep commitment to the Great Lakes inspire us all. They’re volunteers, advocates, partners, and champions. We call them Wavemakers—because the work they do moves the mission forward.
We’re honored to introduce our 2025 Wavemaker Honorees:
Novem Cheng
Alliance for the Great Lakes Ambassador, Tech Professional, and Coastal Cleanup Champion
From Western New York to Chicago’s shoreline, Novem Cheng is a powerhouse of volunteer leadership. As one of our most active Alliance Ambassadors, Novem has led beach cleanups with precision and purpose—often through her employer, HSBC—while engaging the public with passion and clarity. A lover of water sports and a believer in tech-for-good, Novem embodies what it means to be a connector, a protector, and an everyday steward of our shared waters.
Debra Shore
Trailblazer in Environmental Policy and Great Lakes Stewardship
For nearly two decades, Debra Shore has worked at the highest levels of public service to protect the natural world. From launching Chicago Wilderness Magazine to being elected to the Board of Commissioners for the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District in Chicago’s Cook County, to leading Region 5 of the U.S. EPA, Debra’s legacy is one of advocacy, action, and bold ideas. And when she’s not in a policy meeting, you might find her kayaking a quiet Lake Michigan tributary.
Alicia Smith
Director, Junction Coalition and Grassroots Water Advocate
Alicia Smith doesn’t wait for permission to lead—she steps in where her community needs her most. Based in Toledo, Alicia co-founded Junction Coalition in response to the 2014 algae bloom crisis. Since then, she’s remained on the front lines, championing water justice, youth empowerment, and systemic change. Her work has shaped legislation and uplifted voices across local, state, and national platforms. With Alicia, advocacy is personal—and powerful.
Joyce Solberg
Legacy Leader, Gala Architect, and Lifelong Lake Michigan Steward
Some champions lead on the issues. Others do so through philanthropy. Joyce Solberg does both. A longtime supporter and former Alliance board member, Joyce has been the heartbeat of the Great Blue Benefit for more than a decade. From securing sponsorships to inspiring committee members, she brings the kind of joyful, steadfast energy that makes big things happen. The Alliance—and Lake Michigan—are better because of her love and leadership.
Join Us in Celebration
We’ll honor this year’s Wavemakers at the Great Blue Benefit on Thursday, June 12, 2025, from 6:00–9:00 PM at the Columbia Yacht Club in Chicago. It’ll be a night of gratitude, connection, and—of course—waves of inspiration.
Supporting Our Mission
All proceeds from the Great Blue Benefit will directly support the Alliance for the Great Lakes’ ongoing initiatives to ensure our waters are clean, safe, and accessible for all generations.
