Tuesday, July 28, 2026
6:00 PM until dark | Highlands, NC
Join the Highlands Biological Foundation for our most anticipated night of the year — the Summer Soirée at Flat Mountain Farm — our largest annual fundraiser in support of biological research and education in the southern Appalachians.
A Signature Evening
in Highlands
Hosted by Flat Mountain Farm
This year’s Summer Soirée will be held at Flat Mountain Farm, a beautifully designed Highlands property created for gathering, celebration, and rest. Founded and thoughtfully run by Koble Delmer and Caleb Irby, Flat Mountain Farm reflects their shared passion for hospitality shaped by global experiences, Southern roots, and a deep love for bringing people together. Guests will enjoy an unforgettable evening surrounded by mountain views, warm hospitality, and the natural beauty of one of Highlands’ most distinctive lodging properties, all in support of a meaningful cause.
Special thanks to our 2026 Soirée Host Committee:
Laura & Greg Alby
Tricia & Inman Allen
Lisa & Brad Armstrong
Elizabeth Bradham Pinckney
Michael Burel & Dr. Michael Crowe
Bill Bush & Bruce McAlpin
Kathleen Cheek-Milby & Jim Milby
Phyllis & Tom Davis
Lynn DeVault & Glo Ghegan
Martha & Michael Dupuis
Ruthie & Berry Edwards
Rachel Friday
Amanda & Greg Gregory
Laura & Steve Harris
Kate & Doug Hendrickson
Lori & Ed Heys
Kathleen & Chris Hohlstein
Florence & Tom Holmes
Alfred Kennedy & Bill Kenny
Jim Landon
Gage & Mark LeQuire
Elizbeth & David Martin
Heath Massey & John Mitchener
Jennifer & Forrest McConnell
Stephanie & Steve Miskew – Highlands Wine Shoppe
Julie Murphy, JPM Strategies
Nancy & Lyle Nichols
Emilie & Bruce Reid
Wyn & Bill Shoptaw
Kim & Alex Smith
Joan & Stancil Starnes
Carol & Rusty Stewart
Martha & Hal Stibbs
Jennie Stowers
Marianne & Bob Strickland
Susan & Charley Tarver
Keller & Sam Torrey
Kathy & Bestor Ward
Gayle Watkins & Andy Chmar
Becky & Calvin Wright
