Dana Nichols is transforming the Dr. Wallace J. Nichols Memorial Fund into a foundation to continue his impactful work, complete ongoing projects, and support causes dear to him.

Santa Cruz and the world have recently lost a profoundly influential figure, Dr. Wallace J. Nichols, known affectionately as “J” to his friends, colleagues, and countless individuals touched by his work.

Neuroscientists say that spending time near oceans, lakes, rivers and other blue spaces can provide a range of benefits including reducing anxiety, easing mental fatigue and rejuvenating us.

For locals, and perhaps outsiders, it seems like common knowledge: people want to live in Santa Cruz over Silicon Valley because it’s an objectively wonderful place. Beach, redwoods, limited fog, cheap parking garages.