GSN Planet recently announced the 2025 Sustainability Awards, recognizing outstanding leadership, innovation, and impact in environmental and social responsibility within the spa, wellness, and hospitality industries.
This year, GSN has introduced a special new honor: the Lisa Henry Jacobs Award, which recognizes a sustainability trailblazer whose work reflects the spirit, compassion, and integrity of Lisa Henry Jacobs—a beloved member of the wellness community who championed sustainable living through connection, heart, and purpose.
Jacobs was a guiding force in the evolution of the Green Spa Network (GSN) since its inception and a passionate advocate for sustainability in the spa and wellness industry. As an early board member, she helped shape GSN’s mission and elevate its impact from a grassroots movement, championing environmental responsibility long before it became a standard. Through her leadership, mentorship, and commitment to innovation, Lisa inspired a generation of spa professionals to prioritize purpose alongside wellness. Her legacy continues to ripple throughout the industry she helped transform.
“Lisa reminded us that one person can spark meaningful change,” says Maggy Dunphy, GSN Planet board president. “This award celebrates individuals who lead with heart and inspire others through their actions, proving that the power of one can transform communities and industries alike.”
The 2025 GSN Sustainability Awards will highlight excellence across four categories:
- Sustainable Spa/Wellness Facility – The Michael Stusser Award: Celebrating a property that fully integrates sustainability across operations, resource management, procurement, programming, and community engagement.
- Sustainable Innovator – The Tara Grodjesk Award: Honoring a company or individual demonstrating sustainability through product design, sourcing, packaging, and innovation.
- Sustainable Newcomer – The Tracie Wertz Award: Recognizing a new entrant on the sustainability journey with significant progress or impact.
- Sustainable Trailblazer – The Lisa Henry Jacobs Award (new): Honoring an individual whose deep commitment to sustainability uplifts the community and reflects Lisa’s enduring values.
“These awards are a celebration of passion, creativity, and real-world action,” says Dara Mayhew, GSN Planet executive director. “They shine a light on the people and businesses who are redefining what responsible wellness looks like in today’s world.”
Nominations are now open, and all are welcome to submit entries. Applicants may nominate themselves, a colleague, or a business they admire. Finalists will be announced in early September, followed by a voting period open to the GSN community. Winners will be revealed and celebrated during the GSN Planet Sustainability Summit, October 19–22, at Tommy Bahama Miramonte Resort & Spa in Indian Wells, CA.
For more information and to submit a nomination, visit www.gsnplanet.org.
