Belkin International is a global leader in consumer electronics and accessories, creating innovative products that connect people to the technology they love. Their mission goes beyond design and functionality. Belkin is committed to building a more responsible future for all.

At Belkin, sustainability is guided by their core pillars: People, Planet, and Product. They prioritize the wellbeing of our communities, take action to protect the environment, and continuously improve the way they design and deliver their products. As part of this commitment, Belkin has set a bold goal to become carbon neutral by 2030.

This vision comes to life not only in their business practices but also in their culture. Since 2021, Belkin employees have volunteered at the Ballona Wetlands, helping restore one of Southern California’s last remaining coastal ecosystems. Through their employee-led resource group, Earthwise, they foster a culture of environmental responsibility and hands-on impact, from local cleanups to global initiatives.

Belkin is proud to lead with purpose, creating technology that enhances everyday life while contributing to a healthier and more sustainable world.

John Gregory is the kind of person who brings calm, clarity, and heart to every room he's in. Born and raised in Essex County, in northern New Jersey, John developed an early love for the outdoors in the parks and marshlands of his home state, an appreciation that grew into a lifelong connection with nature.

After serving in the U.S. Army in Japan and Vietnam, John earned a degree in economics from Rutgers University and moved to Los Angeles, where he built a long career in accounting across public firms, aerospace, and entertainment. At Sony Pictures, he not only worked in finance but also helped organize employee volunteer efforts, which led him to the Ballona Wetlands during a company service day in 2008.

That first visit sparked a deep connection with the land and the mission of the Friends of Ballona Wetlands. He joined the Board the following year and served as Treasurer for over a decade, bringing not just financial expertise but also thoughtfulness, humility, and quiet humor to his role. John is a devoted advocate for wildlife and also serves on the board of the cat rescue nonprofit Heaven on Earth. He lives in Westchester with Tiny, the beloved tuxedo cat of his late wife, Kathy.

Whether balancing books, lending a hand, or enjoying the great outdoors, John leads with quiet integrity and a genuine care for the world around him.

Jacob Lipa has played a key role in shaping the future of Ballona Wetlands. As president of the engineering firm Psomas, he led the design of the Ballona Freshwater Marsh, completed in 2003. This 26-acre project transformed a degraded landscape into a thriving wetland habitat and served as a foundational step in restoring the Ballona ecosystem.

Jacob later served as president of the Friends of Ballona Wetlands from 2008 to 2010, a period marked by strategic growth. Under his leadership, the Friends expanded its board and staff, launched a new website, and deepened public engagement.

A civil engineer by training, Jacob is known for integrating sustainable planning with community needs. Through Lipa Consulting Group, he advises clients on all aspects of real estate development, from land use and permitting to construction and community relations. He also serves as CEO of Micropolitan, a Psomas subsidiary focused on mixed-income, transit-oriented housing.

Beyond his professional work, Jacob is an active civic leader. He chairs the Los Angeles Business Council and serves on several nonprofit and corporate boards. His career reflects a deep commitment to building stronger communities through thoughtful design, environmental stewardship, and public engagement.