US SIF and Trillium Asset Management have announced George Gay as the recipient of the 2025 Joan Bavaria Award, recognizing his significant contributions to the sustainable investing community. Gay, who joined First Affirmative Financial Network over 35 years ago, has been instrumental in providing clients with investment solutions that align with their values. His founding of SRI in the Rockies, later known as ESG! For Impact, marked the creation of one of the first conferences dedicated to educating and connecting sustainable investors across the United States.
Maria Lettini, CEO of US SIF, praised Gay for his foundational role in the industry, highlighting his efforts in building portfolios that reflect clients' values and fostering a community for advisors to learn and connect. The award was presented at the 2025 US SIF FORUM in Washington D.C., with the selection committee including Lettini and Matthew Patsky, CEO of Trillium Asset Management, both leading organizations co-founded by Joan Bavaria, the award's namesake.
Matthew Patsky commended Gay for embodying Joan Bavaria's legacy through his dedication to mentorship and community building, noting the lasting impact of the SRI in the Rockies conference on the field of sustainable investing. Gay expressed his honor in receiving the award, reflecting on Bavaria's influence on his career and the importance of continuing her work towards a just and sustainable future.
The Joan Bavaria Award celebrates individuals who demonstrate the innovative and collaborative spirit of Joan Bavaria, a visionary in sustainable investing. Past recipients include leaders who have made significant strides in areas such as Gender Lens Investing and climate change advocacy, underscoring the award's role in recognizing transformative contributions to the field.
US SIF and Trillium Asset Management continue to champion sustainable investing, with US SIF members managing $5 trillion in assets committed to practices that promote long-term environmental and social benefits. Trillium Asset Management, with over 40 years of experience, remains dedicated to aligning investment strategies with the goals of a sustainable economy and just society.
