THE NEW YORK JUNIOR LEAGUE WINTER BALL 2016 SATURDAY, MARCH 5 THE PIERRE HOTEL
We are proud to support the
Š2016 Bloomberg L.P. All rights reserved. S657845141 0116
New York Junior League and its volunteers
THE NEW YORK JUNIOR LEAGUE 64TH ANNUAL WINTER BALL SATURDAY, MARCH 5, 2016 SEVEN O'CLOCK THE GRAND BALLROOM THE PIERRE HOTEL NEW YORK CITY WWW.NYJL.ORG
Š2016 JPMorgan Chase & Co.
Building Stronger Communities
We salute the New York Junior League and and their dedication to service. Congratulations to this evening’s honored volunteers!
Contents Evening Program...............................................................................................................................................................................................5 Letter from NYJL President Stacey Lawrence Lee ...................................................................................................................................7 Letter from The Honorable Andrew M. Cuomo, Governor of New York.............................................................................................8 Letter from The Honorable Bill de Blasio, Mayor of New York...............................................................................................................9 Letter from The Honorable Charles E. Schumer, United States Senator from New York.................................................................10 Letter from The Honorable Kirsten E. Gillibrand, United States Senator from New York............................................................. 1 1 Profile of Outstanding Sustainer Celeste D. Rault .................................................................................................................................14 Profile of Outstanding Sustainer Elizabeth A. Smith ............................................................................................................................16 Profile of Outstanding Volunteer Charlene Chuang ..............................................................................................................................20 Profile of Outstanding Volunteer Courtney Morris Guzman...............................................................................................................22 Profile of Outstanding Volunteer Caroline Gordon Organisciak........................................................................................................24 Profile of Outstanding Volunteer Sarah Thorpe Tanner ......................................................................................................................26 Profile of Outstanding Volunteer Kara Suzanne Van Norden .............................................................................................................28 Profile of Mistress of Ceremonies Alexandra Wilkis Wilson ...............................................................................................................33 Former Outstanding Sustainers...................................................................................................................................................................37 Former Outstanding Volunteers..................................................................................................................................................................37 NYJL Board of Directors..............................................................................................................................................................................40 NYJL Management Council........................................................................................................................................................................41 Community Impact .......................................................................................................................................................................................45 Awards and Recognitions..............................................................................................................................................................................51 Contributors....................................................................................................................................................................................................53 Harriman Circle..............................................................................................................................................................................................55 Underwriting...................................................................................................................................................................................................57 Silent and Live Auction Donors..................................................................................................................................................................58 2016 Winter Ball Committee......................................................................................................................................................................61
NYJL MISSION STATEMENT
The Junior League of the City of New York is an organization of women committed to promoting volunteerism, developing the potential of women, and improving communities through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. Its purpose is exclusively educational and charitable. 3
Vienna Waltzes
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Evening Program
Harriman Circle VIP Reception
6:30
7:00 Cocktails and Hors d’oeuvres Silent Auction Begins
Welcome and Presentations
8:00
Winter Ball Mistress of Ceremonies Alexandra Wilkis Wilson, Co-Founder, Gilt and Co-Founder and CEO, GLAMSQUAD NYJL Volunteer 2005-2011
Fundraising Events Council Head, 2015-2017 Diana Spurgat Winter Ball Co-Chairs, 2015-2016 Ana K. Popkowski Kristen L. Kocis NYJL President, 2014-2016 Stacey Lawrence Lee 2016 Outstanding Sustainers and Outstanding Volunteers Presentation
8:30
Dinner
9:15 Community Partner Presentation Lew Zuchman, Executive Director Supportive Children’s Advocacy Network (SCAN) 9:30 Live Auction Sebastian Clarke Rago Arts 9:30 Dessert and Dancing The Dream Team
11:30
12:30 a.m.
Silent Auction Closes Evening Ends
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We congratulate our colleague and friend, Elizabeth (“Betsy�) Smith, on being named 2016 New York Junior League Outstanding Sustainer.
bakerlaw.com
Dear Friends: Welcome to the New York Junior League’s (NYJL) 64th Annual Winter Ball, “Starlight Soirée.” I want to thank you for joining us this evening at The Pierre to support our charitable activities and to celebrate seven wonderful women for their extraordinary volunteer service in our community. For the past 115 years, the NYJL has been an organization of dedicated women committed to making a difference in New York City. Today, the nearly 3,000 volunteers of the NYJL are engaged in diverse activities and community projects undertaken throughout New York City. These programs target four areas of need: Adult Education and Mentoring, Children’s Education, Child Health and Welfare, and Culture and the Arts. Our volunteers impact the community at large through the NYJL’s original signature initiatives, including: • The Financial Literacy program, whose volunteers teach individuals to address financial concerns and gain financial knowledge and skills to ensure long-term stability for themselves and their families. • The Community Health Access Model Program (CHAMP), which presents preventative health education programs to the New York City community at large. • The Playground Improvement Project, which revitalizes and beautifies neglected playgrounds and parks in New York City neighborhoods. • The Community Improvement Project, our newest signature project, where through a one-year partnership with a Manhattanbased nonprofit organization, volunteers help enhance and revitalize the organization’s space and bring vital programming to assist them in increasing their community impact. • The Nonprofit Boards Clearinghouse course, which trains participants to be effective Board Members on nonprofit boards and introduces them to dynamic New York City nonprofit agencies through a structured placement process. • The Forum for Nonprofits, which presents an annual “Conference on Volunteerism” for invitees from nonprofit organizations and other members of the New York community at large. In addition, NYJL volunteers work with more than 20 different community partners to serve our target areas of need, including American Italian Cancer Foundation, Andrew Glover Youth Program, Boys and Girls Harbor, Covenant House, Good Shepherd Services, Grosvenor Neighborhood House YMCA, Jewish Home Lifecare, Mentoring USA, Mott Haven Academy Charter School, New York City Department of Parks and Recreation, New York-Presbyterian Hospital, P.S. 64, Supportive Children’s Advocacy Network (SCAN), the Stanley M. Isaacs Neighborhood Center, Women in Need, and Women’s Prison Association. This year we are proud to honor our Outstanding Sustainers — Celeste D. Rault and Elizabeth A. Smith— and Outstanding Volunteers — Charlene Chuang, Courtney Morris Guzman, Caroline Gordon Organisciak, Sarah Thorpe Tanner, and Kara Suzanne Van Norden—for their significant and sustained volunteer work at the NYJL and the community at large. I encourage you to read about their inspiring contributions in the following pages of this journal. These seven women have worked to continue the vision of 19-year-old New Yorker Mary Harriman, who in 1901 organized a group of young women to give their time and talents to ensure that newly arriving immigrants would find New York City a better place to live. These visionaries gave birth to the Junior League of New York City—the very first Junior League in an organization that has grown to 291 Junior Leagues worldwide. On behalf of the NYJL Board of Directors and Management Council, our volunteers and our Community Partners, I thank you for your generosity this evening. Your support is vital to the NYJL’s ongoing contributions to this great city. Sincerely,
Stacey Lawrence Lee
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Congratulations to our 2016 Outstanding Sustainers
Celeste Rault & Betsy Smith on your tremendous accomplishments! You truly are stars and we thank you for your dedication to the New York Junior League! With Love,
The Sustainer Day Committee, Sustainer Evening Committee, Thanksgiving Eve Ball Committee and Sustainer Nominating Committee
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OUTSTANDING SUSTAINER
Celeste D. Rault C
eleste D. Rault believes in the principle of “to those whom much is given, much is expected.” She was raised by this belief and it is how she raised her family.
Academy, Celeste spent time learning about the exhibits directly from the curators and then giving tours to school groups and the public. Celeste also served on the Archives committee, and as chair, she began the process of computerizing the NYJL’s records.
Celeste’s mother, Sarah Ryan Donnelly, introduced her to the Junior League of Toledo (Ohio). As children, Celeste and her two sisters attended Junior League events to wrap presents for underserved children and worked at rummage sales where the proceeds purchased food and clothing for families in need. Celeste and her sisters became volunteers with the Junior League of Toledo; Celeste completed her Provisional course in the Junior League of Houston.
NYJL Sustainer Nancy Blackford notes, “Celeste’s generosity of spirit makes her an outstanding leader and friend. Her first words are always ‘how can I help?’ and her follow through is unparalleled.” Recently, Celeste has served on the Sustainer Daytime committee where she is a vice-chair and has co-chaired several Sustainer luncheons. Additionally, she was a member of the Development committee from 2013–2015, and served as Sustainer co-chair for the 2014–2015 Annual Fund.
“I was the only woman in an executive role in an oil company and I cherished the friendships I made in that course,” Celeste remembers. “I had been raised to know it was important to give back and I was thrilled to be able to do so with smart and caring young women.” While there, Celeste taught CPR to inner-city parents, which she found incredibly rewarding.
“Celeste is dynamic and always gets things done with flair. She is a joy to work with— enthusiastic, generous, and reliable,” notes NYJL Sustainer Margaret Carnwath. Several other Sustainers also admire Celeste’s contributions. Susan Fisher explains, “She is untiring in her efforts to make the world better and happier. She is truly a generous person.”
In 1986, Celeste transferred to the NYJL and was placed on the National Academy for Design committee. As a docent for the 14
“ MY MOTHER INSTILLED IN ME THE IMPORTANCE OF TAKING AN ACTIVE ROLE IN HELPING THOSE LESS FORTUNATE. THE NYJL ALLOWED ME TO BECOME AN EXPERIENCED, EFFECTIVE VOLUNTEER TO BEST SERVE THOSE IN NEED.”
Sacha MacNaughton adds, “Celeste uniquely blends resolute, diplomatic commitment, unbridled generosity, and extraordinary organization, with a quick-witted sense of humor.”
shelters they are given a plate with food. Such a small thing but something I have not forgotten some 20 years later.”
Celeste and her husband, Joseph, are parents of Joseph, Christine, Celeste has given her time to other nonprofits including the Museum Catherine, and Nicholas. Christine and Catherine were NYJL of the City of New York, the River Club of New York, the Central College-Age Provisionals, and Christine is on the Done in a Day Park Conservancy, the Infirmary Ball Committee, and the Trust for committee. “It was important that my daughters understood that the Public Lands. Additionally, Celeste was involved in her children’s Thanksgiving Eve Ball was not just a party about them but a commitschools and NYC Parents in Action, in the roles of Secretary, Vice ment to help others,” Celeste notes. “I think Mary Harriman said it President of Communications, President, and Chairman of the Board. best: ‘The goal of the Junior League is to enrich its members’ lives by improving the living conditions of the city’s poorest neighborhoods.” Celeste was involved with the Neighborhood Coalition for Shelter (NCS), serving as a Board member and on the Employment, Celeste enjoys cooking, playing tennis, and golfing. She is also Governance, and Development committees. “I have my son Joseph currently taking Global Politics courses at the NYU School of to thank,” Celeste recalls. “Walking to school he would see men Professional Studies. camped out on the steps of Brick Church and ask me why they slept outside and why I couldn’t help them? Thus my 20-year involvement “The future of the Junior League will be much like the past of the Junior League,” Celeste says. “We aim to be responsible citizens and to make a with the homeless began. For an NCS benefit event, I asked the shelter’s clients to stuff, seal, and stamp the invitations. I served lunch difference. I do not foresee a time when our city will not need help taking to the clients and one of the men asked for more iced tea. I was busy care of the homeless, the sick, the elderly, the children, and the helpless. so I said ‘Sure it is in the kitchen—help yourself.’ He returned teary-eyed. We will continue to reach out to those who cannot help themselves, and we will provide dignity and respect to the communities we touch.” He told me he had not opened a refrigerator in years; that in the 15
OUTSTANDING SUSTAINER
Elizabeth A. Smith S
piritual, smart, funny, open-hearted, creative, strong, gracious hostess, unselfish volunteer, great mother, amazing wife, caring friend. This is the way former NYJL Treasurer Joan Benham and other fellow volunteers and colleagues describe Elizabeth A. “Betsy” Smith.
held on the former Board of Managers. Following this, she chaired the Nominating committee and then led the design of the NYJL Centennial exhibit at the Museum of the City of New York. In 2002, she was recognized as an NYJL Outstanding Volunteer. Continuing her NYJL involvement, Betsy was elected to a four-year term on the Board of Directors in 2009 where she chaired the Governance committee and served on the Audit committee. Past Presidents Gena Lovett, Lisa Hathaway Stella, and Peggy Anne Dineen all describe her board contributions as legendary with special emphasis on her strategic vision, wisdom, and dedication. Today, Betsy continues to lend her time and expertise on the Financial Advisory committee.
The subject of these accolades, Betsy joined the NYJL in the late 1980s, initially teaching English to young recent immigrants. “I had the opportunity to impart not just language skills, but also to give these students a background in our way of life. For this group, the rights granted to all Americans was a wholly new concept,” she recalls. Betsy next directed her attention to another important community issue—raising awareness of Alzheimer’s disease. She was instrumental in developing a resource handbook for families and creating one of the first awareness campaigns using subway posters. Betsy remains very proud of this work and of the feedback that her committee received from many families.
Betsy has been a dedicated volunteer for many other organizations, including Church of the Heavenly Rest, Trinity College, Search and Care, Chapin School, St. Bernard’s School, Colonial Dames, Her Justice, and Yorkville Common Pantry. These activities have been influenced by the skills she developed at the NYJL. She notes, “I have had the experience of managing others—of arbitrating between two parties who had very different views, of not just hearing
As a financial attorney, Betsy was a natural fit for the NYJL Treasurer and Vice President of Development positions that she 16
“ THE NEW YORK JUNIOR LEAGUE EMBODIES THE BEST OF WHAT WOMEN HAVE TO OFFER TO OUR COMMUNITY— SELFLESS SERVICE FOR THE GREATER GOOD. I AM PROUD TO HAVE BEEN A PART OF THIS GREAT ORGANIZATION FOR MORE THAN 25 YEARS.”
but listening to ideas and forming a reasoned opinion, and of deciding to take on a project not necessarily popular but for the greater good of the organization and our community.”
– taking care of practicalities while nurturing their spirit.” Betsy credits the NYJL with introducing her to nearly all of her best female friends. “We are all different, but like all volunteers, what brings us together is the desire to serve our community.”
Betsy has also been very progressive in embracing causes around women’s safety, hunger and the LGBT community. “The NYJL taught me to live up to my commitments, respect everyone’s views, and step up and get involved.” She especially values the nonprofit business training she received at the NYJL that she has carried forward in many ways.
Professionally, Betsy is a partner at Baker Hostetler where her pink legal pads are famous. She was the first woman in the firm tapped by colleagues to become a member of the Baker Hostetler policy committee. She is currently head of the tax group, co-head of the business group and a lateral hiring partner. One of her work colleagues is NYJL Fundraising Council Head Lauren Giordani, who praises Betsy for being a “professional mentor to many women in the firm. She is an aspirational example of an accomplished woman.”
Married to John Barrie, an attorney, Betsy has two children, George Nathan Smith Alpert and Hollis Unter Alpert. Currently a NYJL College-Age Provisional, Hollis credits her mother for being a role model in showing how volunteer work makes life richer. Past President Melissa Bernstein remarks that this family tradition “of giving back to society the gifts God has given you, continues on from Betsy’s parents and grandparents.”
In her spare time, Betsy loves to jog, do yoga and Pilates. She is a fan of opera and is well known for her gourmet cooking and elegant parties. As close friend Dee Dee Scarborough notes, “Betsy’s natural sense of fun and generosity of spirit are renowned.” When asked how she does it all, Betsy says, “Remember to find time to give of yourself. You can find the time if you prioritize, delegate and are organized. Do not be afraid to care!”
Betsy is also widely known for being a caring friend. As Past President Lynn Quinn says, “Many times Betsy has sustained and supported a friend stricken with a life-changing illness or situation 17
Congratulations to the 2016 Outstanding Volunteers! Charlene Chuang, Courtney Guzman, Carrie Organisciak, Sarah Tanner, Kara Van Norden
THE BRIGHTEST STARS ARE THOSE WHO SHINE FOR THE BENEFIT OF OTHERS
Caroline Adams • Joie Anderson • Jennifer Askin Pollock • Jana Beauchamp • Caitlin Behrens • Liz Beller • Melissa Bernstein Robin Body • Sharon Bonanni • Maureen Brady Atinsky • Mary Catherine Burdine • Sara Burke • Casey Cammatte Christie Chan • Katie Cook • Mary Hutchings Cooper • Rosemarie Dackerman • Peggy Anne Dineen • Caroline Donohue Katrina Dudley • Kelly Duffy • Kara Dunn • Jeannie Egas-Trouveroy • Liz Fabsits • Jill Ferrari • Nicole Ferrin Melody Finkelstein • Leslie Fish • Didi Fraoili • Meg Freeland • Ashley Goldman • Katie Grishman • Melinda Harris Lisa Hathaway Stella • Catherine Hawthorn • Joan Heath • Katrina Hennigan • Colleen Hoy • Daria Albinger Incorvaia Jin Joshi • Whitney Kneisley • A. Gale Kroeger • Jennifer Lagnado • KoKo Lance • Karen Laudeman • Sarah Lopez Ashley B. T. Ma • Suzanne E. Manning • Emily Masters • Laura Matiz • Crystal L. Z. Matsibekker • Susan Matsko Amanda McCorry • Kate McGlynn • Hilary McNamara • Melinda Mehfar • Pauline Millard • Pat Miney • Sara Moose Melanie Nolan • Justine Oddo • Emma Oldenkamp • Kat O’Leary • Bonnie Orlowski • Liz Ostrander • Jessica Paik Elena Pavloff • Joan Pedley • Tiffany Piecewicz • Nan Pozios • Elizabeth Pullum • Pam Robbins-Arcilla • Marcy Sendax Kristen Settlemire • Teresa Signorelli • Diana Spurgat • Jephtha Tausig • Heidi Thompson • Kathy Tsougranis Randee Lee Weingart • Leah Wenger • Anne Westpheling • Derval Whelan • Mary Willis White Means • Jennifer Wiese Josette Winograd • Heidi Wlosek • Dana Wolf • Julie Zawislak • Helene Zhu
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OUTSTANDING VOLUNTEER
Charlene Chuang F
or Charlene Chuang, being selected as an Outstanding Volunteer represents something greater than an acknowledgement of her personal achievements: the privilege and opportunity to propel forward the mission of the NYJL.
In 2013, Charlene served on the Nominating committee, identifying the leaders within the NYJL. That year, she was also involved in the Annual Fund committee and began working with the Strategic Planning Board committee. “The great thing about working with Charlene is that she always says yes to taking on a project and does Charlene has dedicated her near-decade tenure to the community it well and with style,” says Gale Kroeger, past Nominating Chair area, fostering relationships with organizations throughout the city and member of the Strategic Planning Board committee. “She is with an emphasis on making an impact. Her reach has not only organized and smart and combines this with a positive spirit, which touched outside organizations but also facilitated the development, makes her a valuable member and leader of any team. Working with empowerment, and recognition of volunteers. her has been a real pleasure.” Charlene began volunteering with the NYJL in 2006 on the Milbank/Pelham-Fritz committee, helping to build children’s self-esteem and creativity through educational programs and activities. For the next six years, she led the committee as vice chair and chair, engendering camaraderie and enthusiasm among the volunteers while establishing deep relationships with the children served. Charlene’s contributions earned her recognition as a Woman to Watch in 2012. Charlene continued to apply her educational expertise in 2012 as she led the Da Vinci Explorers committee in its inaugural year, engaging young minds and hands through science and art-based projects.
These collective experiences, combined with a brief stint grounding the New Beginnings committee in its new location at Hopper Home, helped prepare Charlene to join the Management Council in 2015 as Adult Education and Mentoring Council Head and take an active role on the 115th Anniversary Planning committee. Charlene is well known for being driven and taking action. “Charlene gets it done,” says Contessa Officer, who works with Charlene in the community area. “When I told her I wanted to cultivate a new community partner, she put in the hard work and helped us successfully bring the organization on board.” 20
“ I BELIEVE THAT EMPOWERING WOMEN TO LEAD BEYOND THE WALLS OF NYJL HEADQUARTERS WILL BE MOST MEANINGFUL IN SCALING OUR IMPACT. OUR MISSION AND CONCERTED ACTION BRING TO LIFE WHAT I’VE ALWAYS BELIEVED IS ESSENTIAL: EDUCATING THE WHOLE SELF.”
Jana Beauchamp, Senior Community Council Head, adds, “What makes Charlene stand out is her eagerness to express intellectual curiosity and creativity in pursuing the highest quality work product for community betterment. From encouraging her committees to reach for the stars and have a shining moment to streamlining policies and procedures for the community, Charlene turns everything she touches into gold.”
had leadership roles overseeing educational, cultural, and inter-club programming, as well as communications and membership. Her personal interests in addressing poverty and crisis have allowed her to further reconnect with MIT, partnering Institute professors and students with a Nepalese village that was devastated in last April’s earthquake. This collaboration will support the construction of a cost-effective and better performing school, designed by and using technologies analyzed by MIT architecture and civil engineering students. The program, run out of MIT’s D-Lab, focuses on the role of technologies in reducing barriers to improved education.
Past President Lisa Hathaway Stella adds, “Charlene is one of those volunteers who emerges… she quietly listens, processing information and evaluating every detail. And then, after thoughtful consideration, she speaks with the most insightful and forward-thinking response. Professionally, Charlene fulfills her passion for education, innovation, Charlene is a true leader who makes a tangible impact in her role and creativity as a consultant, working to impact organizations and on the Management Council.” help drive their missions by crafting and applying the frameworks of thinking they need. Beyond her involvement within the NYJL, Charlene’s commitment extends to her alma mater, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology At her core, Charlene strives to leave this earth a better place than the (MIT), where she is currently serving a three-year term on the one she inherited. She believes that we are all interconnected and has Alumni Association Board of Directors. She is an active alumna of adopted the South African philosophy of ubuntu. Ubuntu says that her graduating class, serving as a Reunion and Gift Campaign chair a person is a person through other people—my prosperity is bound for numerous years as well as the current Class President. Locally, up in yours. And indeed, Charlene knows that the individual she has Charlene serves as the MIT Club of New York Treasurer and has become is inextricably linked to her journey in the NYJL. 21
OUTSTANDING VOLUNTEER
Courtney MorrisGuzman S
ince joining the NYJL in 2004, Courtney says her greatest pleasure is seeing the women on her teams thrive. “As Training Council head, I witnessed eight chairs who were truly devoted to their respective committee’s missions. Not only did they do a phenomenal job of leading their teams thoughtfully and powerfully, but they rose to the occasion on every call to action to support each other through different challenges. As Senior Council Head, I have seen the same: three unstoppable, unflappable Council Heads passionate about supporting the mission of the NYJL.” Courtney joined the NYJL at the tail end of her career in community-based arts. She had worked in the inner cities of New York City and Newark, NJ for several arts education programs including Batoto Yetu, Dancing in the Streets and the New Jersey Performing Arts Center. The NYJL represented a platform to serve collectively and expand her leadership in the nonprofit sector. Starting out on the Advocates for Public Policy committee, Courtney eventually landed in the Training Council on the Nonprofit Boards Clearinghouse (NPBC) committee. With her background in arts and the nonprofit sector, she found it to be an especially meaningful experience. “Because NPBC focused on providing critical support to
so many of New York City’s nonprofits which in turn were addressing myriad needs across the city such as housing, health care, and family services, their impact was, and is, exponential.” During her time on NPBC, Courtney served as treasurer and then chair as the committee trained more than 400 volunteers and assisted more than 90 nonprofits in finding the right matches for their boards, junior boards, and volunteer committees. Teresa Signorelli recalls, “Having a co-chair with effective leadership skills and such appealing interpersonal skills made a critical difference in our ability to run a successful program, not to mention maintain our sanity while working under pressure.” Under Courtney’s leadership, NPBC was selected as a 2012 Committee of the Year, and in 2013 she was recognized as a Woman to Watch. Her experience on NPBC together with the skills she gained as a member of the Strategic Planning Board committee and the Training and Leadership Task Force and as Training Council Head, ultimately led to her current position, Membership Senior Council 22
“ THE NYJL HELPS CREATE A CULTURE OF CAMARADERIE AROUND HARD WORK. TO HAVE FOSTERED AN ENVIRONMENT WHERE SO MANY VOLUNTEERS ARE ABLE TO SHINE AND FULLY EXPRESS THEIR INCREDIBLE TALENT IS BY FAR MY PROUDEST ACCOMPLISHMENT, NOT ONLY AT THE NYJL, BUT IN MY LIFE.”
Head, where she oversees the Training, Volunteer Development and Sustainer Councils. Courtney’s strong management skills, approachability and openmindedness are only a few of the reasons why everyone enjoys working with her. NYJL Director-at-Large Anne Bahr Thompson observes, “Courtney brings compassion, thoughtfulness and optimism to every task, large and small; volunteering alongside her is like getting a burst of inspiration.”
Through her work on the Nonprofit Boards Clearinghouse, Courtney joined the Board of Trustees for Dancing Classrooms, where she chairs the Development Committee and their Associate Board (the Contemporaries Network). In her day job as a Vice President in the Energy Services group of Banc of America Public Capital Corp, Courtney is a team leader for Power of 10, a women’s diversity group. She occasionally assists as a pro-bono consultant for Rational Animal, a support group for animals in need.
Volunteer Development Council Head Anne Westpheling adds, “Courtney is the kind of leader that inspires simply by being herself. She listens intently, is never afraid to question the status quo, and she is unfailingly positive.”
No one knows better than Courtney that you can’t do it alone, and she is most thankful for the support from her husband, Luis. “All of the spouses and families of NYJL volunteers deserve a lot of credit for what they give up so that we can fulfill the mission of this great organization.”
Courtney is extremely grateful for the learning opportunities the training area has provided her. She says one of the biggest shifts in her volunteer experience happened when she was chosen to go to Leadership Day. “This event is for ‘rising stars,’ but I didn’t know this when I was invited to attend, and a paradigm shift occurred. I began to really own my NYJL career and take ownership as a leader for the organization.”
“Courtney is dedicated to the mission of the NYJL and has helped raise the bar in the training area with great results,” says former NYJL Training Manager and current Sustainer Council Head Jeannie Egas-Trouveroy. “She motivates the volunteers around her, listens carefully to ideas and offers solutions that best fit the NYJL in a meaningful way. Personally, Courtney is a warm and understanding woman in all aspects of her life.” 23
OUTSTANDING VOLUNTEER
CarolineGordon Organisciak F
or Caroline “Carrie” Gordon Organisciak, an introduction to volunteering started at an early age, as she frequently participated in events with the Junior League of Schenectady and Saratoga Counties, where her mother, Kimberly Gordon, was a volunteer, and aunt, Deborah Gordon Mullaney, was president. As she watched her mother and aunt’s dedication to volunteering, she “was continually impressed by what women could do when they came together and aspired to be a contributing Junior League volunteer like them someday.” Upon moving to New York after college, it felt natural for Carrie to join the NYJL. Carrie considers the NYJL to be a “well-oiled machine that makes a tangible difference in the lives of our constituents, while also training volunteers to become better, stronger women.” Since joining in 2006, Carrie has chaired multiple committees including the Playground Improvement Project (PIP), the Community Improvement Project (CIP), for which she was one of the inaugural co-chairs, and the Community Program Research committee, where she currently serves as chair. CIP was named 2013 Committee of the Year under her leadership.
Jana Beauchamp, Community Senior Council Head, says, “I am impressed with Carrie’s incredible work ethic, energy, and commitment to bettering the community. She has managed all of the NYJL’s largest community projects to perfection. Carrie is a natural leader and an inspiration, making daunting tasks seem effortless. Her enthusiasm is infectious.” As chair of PIP, Carrie oversaw the renovation of six parks around New York City. An avid runner who has completed the New York City Marathon twice, Carrie is proud of seeing the improvements PIP made in East River Park which was her final park four years ago. Carrie elaborates, “People still appreciate our efforts. It impresses upon me the longevity of what we do—in something as tangible as a physical park space. One of my proudest moments was when the New York City Parks and Recreation Department Commissioner said he ‘couldn’t believe how much our women could achieve in one day!’ Our volunteers go into a situation and blow everyone’s expectations away every single time.” Carrie has devoted most of her volunteer time to the community, but she also spent a year on the Nominating committee where she 24
“ I HAVE GOTTEN JUST AS MUCH PERSONAL GROWTH OUT OF MY TENURE AT THE NYJL AS I HAVE GIVEN BACK TO THE COMMUNITY PARTNERS I HAVE SERVED. I AM SO HUMBLED TO BE A PART OF AN ORGANIZATION THAT MAKES THIS POSSIBLE! IT ALMOST MAKES VOLUNTEERING FEEL SELFISH!”
learned more about how the organization operates and helped select new leadership. Gale Kroeger, Nominating chair at the time, says, “Carrie is a can-do person with a fantastic attitude and a perennial smile. She is a born leader whose irresistible enthusiasm brings people together as a team. She has an ability to juggle all the aspects of her life in a way that is amazing and inspiring.”
“Chairing a large committee gave me the opportunity to lead 60 members; I was managing volunteers well before I had a team at work. Managing volunteers can be more challenging than employees since they are offering their precious free time. I learned to be a patient leader and always respect people’s efforts. Now that I have become a manager at work, this has helped me form a more responsive and effective team.”
Carrie led the inaugural year of CIP, which included setting up a matrix upon which the committee would run, and overseeing the transformation of a drab, outdated schoolroom into a vibrant after-school center. Carrie recalls, “The look on the children’s faces when we released the center back to them is a memory that stays with me always. They were so happy they had a safe haven for those dangerous after school hours. It made a year full of uncertainties and hard work all worth it!”
Carrie also volunteers with University of Pennsylvania’s Annual Fund, and with Wharton’s Jay H. Baker Retail Center, where she mentors students and young alumni entering the retail field. She enjoys spending her free time taking barre classes, skiing, running and snuggling with her rescue “morkie” Henry.
Professionally, Carrie works on the retail side of fashion, holding various senior positions at Ralph Lauren before entering the role of Vice President of Sales and Planning for kensie and G.H. Bass at GIII Apparel Corporation, where she leads a team of 15. She says that she gained valuable management skills through her NYJL work.
After Carrie and her husband, Jeffrey, welcomed their daughter Clara in December 2015, Carrie aspires to continue the legacy of giving back in the community with her baby girl. “I hope to instill in Clara all that I have learned. Women can accomplish great things when they set their mind to it and roll up their sleeves. She should never stop bettering herself. And most importantly, even though she is just one small person, she can give back and make a concrete difference in this dynamic city of ours!” 25
OUTSTANDING VOLUNTEER
Sarah Thorpe Tanner I
f Sarah could offer her fellow volunteers one message, it would be that “we focus on continuing to live Mary Harriman’s vision and evolve to meet the ever-changing needs of our community.” For more than 10 years, Sarah has continued to live Mary’s vision, training new volunteers as a Provisional group leader, helping to plan for the NYJL’s future as a member of the Strategic Planning Board committee, and selecting the NYJL’s leadership as a member of the Nominating committee.
with her. Fellow Provisional group leader Robin Body fondly recalls, “I had the privilege of volunteering with Sarah on the Provisional Training committee and saw first-hand her unique ability to make every volunteer, whether someone who had recently joined or the NYJL President, feel special and valued.”
Sarah is especially proud of the work that Cooking and Health Education for Families (CHEF) does as it is co-chaired by one her past Provisionals. As former Volunteer Development Council Head During her time as a Provisional group leader, Sarah trained six and current NYJL President-Elect Suzanne Manning notes, “I was groups of new volunteers during the course of three years. Knowing privileged to see first-hand the impact that Sarah and her co-leader what these great women had ahead of them and helping foster their made on their Provisionals. They were so excited to be introduced to NYJL experience from the start was particularly special to her. “My the NYJL by Sarah and I knew that her Provisionals were entering best moments at the NYJL are seeing my past Provisionals engaged into their first Active placements with the tools and passion they and successfully leading events, initiatives, and committees. It’s needed in order to make a difference on the committees in which touching to see the impact they’re all making and to know that I they served as well as having a fulfilling volunteer experience.” played a small role in helping them launch their NYJL experience,” In addition to helping train others, Sarah correspondingly credits says Sarah. As a Provisional leader, Sarah’s ability to inspire those the NYJL for helping her define her own leadership style. As she around her as well as her never-ending willingness to go the extra recalls, “My leadership experience on the Finance Committee early mile are only a couple of reasons why everyone enjoyed working on had a great impact on my overall development as a professional, 26
“ I VOLUNTEER WITH THE NYJL BECAUSE I WANT TO HELP AFFORD OTHERS THE OPPORTUNITIES I HAVE BEEN GRANTED. I AM PROUD TO BE ABLE TO VOLUNTEER WITH SUCH A TALENTED, SUPPORTIVE, AND GENEROUS GROUP OF WOMEN.”
volunteer, and leader. I had a leadership position at the NYJL long before I was leading a team professionally which gave me the opportunity to define my style and navigate the ins and outs of prioritizing, delegating, and collaborating under the tutelage of great NYJL leaders.” Like many volunteers, Sarah joined the NYJL upon moving to New York City after graduating from college. She was inspired to join by her mother, a member of the Junior League of Bergen County in New Jersey. She remembers helping to volunteer at food drives and at the local food pantry from a young age. Today, Sarah is thankful to the NYJL for not only offering her the opportunity to make an impact in the community, but also for providing the foundation for building lifelong friendships with fellow volunteers. Currently, Sarah sits on the NYJL Board of Directors as the Treasurer and is the chair of the Finance committee. She is also the chair of the Food and Beverage committee. In 2007, Sarah was selected as a Woman to Watch. That same year, the Finance committee won Committee of the Year under her leadership.
Former NYJL Treasurer Heidi Thompson remembers, “Sarah is a dream to work with: unfailingly organized and prepared, she enables every one of her fellow volunteers to be productive. Underneath that impressive capacity to execute is the most delightful sense of fun, making her all the more enjoyable to work with. Sarah represents the very best of us at the NYJL, and it is fitting that we honor her.” In addition to her volunteer work at the NYJL, Sarah volunteers with her alma mater, Colgate University, where she is a class agent and a member of the President’s Club Council. She is also actively involved with Disney VoluntEARS. Professionally, Sarah is Marketing Media Director at ESPN. Sarah is delighted to be an Outstanding Volunteer and looks forward to continuing her volunteer work with the NYJL. “I’m continually moved by the wonderfully talented women of the NYJL,” she says. “They have vision, passion and commitment to this community, which inspires me to continue to give back and to give back specifically with the NYJL.”
27
OUTSTANDING VOLUNTEER
Kara Suzanne Van Norden K
ara Suzanne Van Norden joined the NYJL in 2005 because she wanted to connect with the community through volunteering and collaborate with other passionatelydedicated women. Her husband, Tad, and a close friend who was an NYJL volunteer encouraged her to get involved. Since then, she has emerged as an inspiring and empowering leader in the community and training sectors. On her first committee, Senior Friends, Kara worked with older adults and her impact was recognized with an NYJL Woman to Watch award. After co-chairing Senior Friends, she shifted gears to work with young students on the Tutor Time committee. “I loved being a mentor and looked forward to seeing my three students each week,” Kara recalls. “One little girl would ‘scold’ me if I didn’t make it to a session. Knowing that they needed my friendship and guidance made me realize how much my time meant to their sense of happiness and security. I have taken this experience as I work with my own children to help them understand how to show empathy.”
In 2011 Kara was elected to the Nominating committee where she helped select the NYJL’s leadership teams. She then transitioned to the training area when she joined the Nonprofit Boards Clearinghouse (NPBC) committee, which runs an intensive course that prepares both NYJL volunteers and the general public for board service. As the committee’s vice chair of nonprofit strategy, she met with New York City nonprofits to assess their needs for board members and encouraged some to start junior boards for young professionals. Additionally, she recruited new nonprofits for the course graduates to join. Later, as vice chair of student advisors, she ensured that all course graduates were placed on boards where their skills were best utilized. “Kara was always front and center, supporting her chairs and the needs of the committee, often going above and beyond the job description,” notes her former NPBC chair Teresa Signorelli. “She understood the big picture. She helped us think strategically. She rolled up her sleeves and helped us move forward practically.” Currently Kara serves on the 115th Anniversary Planning committee and on the Management Council as Training Council Head. She has 28
“ I ENCOURAGE OTHERS TO JOIN THE NYJL BECAUSE AFTER 115 YEARS, ITS MISSION AND VISION CONTINUE TO RESONATE AND EVOLVE AS OUR COMMUNITY CHANGES. IT IS AN ORGANIZATION THAT NOT ONLY TAKES PRIDE IN HELPING TO BETTER OUR COMMUNITY, BUT ALSO SEEKS TO BETTER ITS VOLUNTEERS THROUGH TRAINING AND LEADERSHIP OPPORTUNITIES.”
proudly taken a key part in the evolution of the chair-training program to better promote best practice sharing. She directed the development of a new quarterly newsletter to improve communication between the Board of Directors, Management Council and committee chairs, as well as share information and leadership tips. She has also spearheaded the new chair networking events that offer a casual outlet for chairs to seek support, build relationships, and collaborate.
church and nursery school’s 300th anniversary event. Her NYJL experience has made her comfortable leading and collaborating while on the Board of Deacons. She led the board in its community outreach service drives. She encouraged them to engage with church members in times of crisis, most recently during Hurricane Sandy, and to visit them in hospitals and their homes. She also spearheaded the development of spiritual training workshops for the board during monthly meetings and retreats. She is currently a co-chair of community drives for the St. Thomas More Playgroup.
Emily Masters, a former chair in the Training Council, says, “Kara has raised my personal standards. Her ever-evolving leadership was a wonderful example of how it is more than a position, it is also Kara spends her time laughing, chasing after, and loving her two about the enthusiasm you bring to your work. Kara’s passion for energetic boys, Duncan, 9, and Christopher, 4. She also enjoys the NYJL inspires me!” exercising, drinking great wine, and attending the opera. “I recognize my family sacrifices just as much as I do as a volunteer, and Commenting on Kara’s leadership skills, colleague and Volunteer I appreciate their support,” Kara remarks on the time she spends Development Council Head Anne Westpheling says, “Her ability away from her family doing NYJL work. to dive into a project, explore every angle, and come out with a fantastic result—usually ahead of schedule—is unparalleled. She She continues, “The NYJL will flourish because of the passionate also has that rare ability to make the work feel fun.” leadership and creativity of our volunteers. Our future successes depend on the need for us all to be creative and collaborative across Outside of the NYJL, Kara has been involved with the First all areas to solve the challenges we face as volunteers and as women.” Presbyterian Church since 2003. She has served as chair of the 29
* * We salute thethe We Salute * We salute the We 2015 salute the 2015 2016 2015 Winter Ball Winter Ball Winter Ball Winter Ball Honorees Honorees Honorees Honorees
Outstanding Volunteers Outstanding Volunteers Jana Beauchamp Outstanding Volunteers Outstanding Volunteers Jana Beauchamp Sharon Bonanni Charlene Chuang Jana Beauchamp Sharon Bonanni Allison Marie Hyers Sharon Bonanni Courtney Morris Guzman Allison Marie Hyers Cynthia VitariHyers Song Allison Marie Caroline Gordon Cynthia VitariOrganisciak Song Leah Wenger Cynthia Vitari Song Sarah Thorpe Tanner Leah Wenger Leah Wenger Kara Suzanne Van Norden Outstanding Sustainers Outstanding Sustainers Catherine C. Crane Outstanding Sustainers Outstanding Catherine C.Sustainers Crane Peggy AnneC.Dineen Catherine Crane Celeste D.Dineen Rault Peggy Anne Peggy Anne Dineen
***
Elizabeth A. Smith
With best wishes from With bestNominating wishes fromCommittee The 2014-2015 With best wishes With best wishes fromfrom The 2014-2015 Nominating Committee The 2015-2016 Nominating Committee The 2014-2015 Nominating Committee
s s e r t s i M
s e i n o m e r e C of
THE 2015-2016 NYJL BOARD OF DIRECTORS & MANAGEMENT COUNCIL CONGRATULATE OUTSTANDING SUSTAINERS CELESTE D. RAULT ELIZABETH A. SMITH OUTSTANDING VOLUNTEERS CHARLENE CHUANG COURTNEY MORRIS GUZMAN CAROLINE GORDON ORGANISCIAK SARAH THORPE TANNER KARA SUZANNE VAN NORDEN WE ALSO CELEBRATE THE WORK OF EACH VOLUNTEER AND HER TIRELESS EFFORTS TO SUPPORT THE NYJL MISSION
MISTRESS OF CEREMONIES
Alexandra Wilkis Wilson
Co-Founder and CEO of GLAMSQUAD; Co-Founder and Strategic Advisor of Gilt
A
lexandra Wilkis Wilson is a digital entrepreneur who
Alexandra holds a B.A. from Harvard College, where she graduated
co-founded the influential e-commerce retailer Gilt
magna cum laude, and an M.B.A. from Harvard Business School.
and currently oversees the mobile app startup GLAMSQUAD,
She speaks five languages and has studied, lived, and worked inter-
home-delivering affordable beauty services to tech savvy consumers.
nationally in Latin America, Europe, and Japan.
A pioneering dealmaker who found success in the nexus of technology
Alexandra is on the Board of Directors of Perry Ellis International
and the luxury goods sector, Wilson is also an advisor, mentor and
(Nasdaq: PERY). She has served on the non-profit boards of:
angel investor who shares her expertise with diverse entrepreneurs.
Dress for Success Worldwide, The National Retail Federation
Before co-founding Gilt, Alexandra managed retail operations at Bulgari, overseeing 15 North American stores. Before working at Bulgari, Alexandra managed Leather Goods Sales Planning
Foundation, Women’s Forum, Inc and Fashion Group International. She is an active fundraiser for her alma maters The Brearley School, Phillips Exeter Academy, and Harvard University.
for Louis Vuitton North America. She had previously worked at
Alexandra, together with Gilt co-founder Alexis Maybank, is the
Financo for the late retail guru Marvin Traub, former Chairman
author of the New York Times bestselling book By Invitation
and CEO of Bloomingdales. Alexandra began her career working
Only: How We Built Gilt and Changed the Way Millions Shop
for 3 years in investment banking at Merrill Lynch.
(Portfolio/Penguin).
33
Rago proudly supports the NYJL.
Jewelry Auction | Sunday, April 17 Complimentary catalogs, print or pdf, for all NYJL members.
333 N. Main St., Lambertville, NJ info@ragoarts.com | ragoarts.com
WARMEST CONGRATULATIONS TO THE 2016 OUTSTANDING SUSTAINERS and
OUTSTANDING VOLUNTEERS! John Barrie, Hollis and Smith Alpert
A marriage made in heaven, begins with a wedding at The Pierre.
The Pierre New York A Taj Hotel Please contact us at 212.940.8111 or Enita.rivera@tajhotels.com.
Former Outstanding Sustainers 2015 2015 2014 2014 2013 2013 2012 2012 2011 2011 2010 2010 2009 2009 2008 2008 2007 2007 2006 2006
Catherine C. Crane Peggy Anne Heinkele Dineen Nancy Geer Blackford Gregg Deane Swain Allison Cooke Kellogg Barbara Anne Paddock Linda Fraser Caroline Williamson Deane Allen Gilliam Diann Rohde Helen Bearn Pennoyer Pamela Bimson Reade Melissa Lewis Bernstein Frances Griffith Laserson Joie Angermeier Anderson Wendy M. Hornick Mary Jane Brock Christina R. Davis Pamela J. Sheiffer Brenda Neubauer Straus
2005 2005 2004 2004 2003 2002 2000 1999 1998 1997 1996 1995 1994 1993 1992 1991 1990 1989 1988 1987
Barbara Willmarth Callahan Margaret S. Scott Jane R. Crotty Barbara Doljack Hayes Carolyn Leigh Patterson Jeanne Glennon McAnaney Roberta J. Allardyce Kathleen Gill Miller Nancy Rae Scully Marion B. McNeely Carolyn L. Smith Mrs. William T. Stubenbord Mrs. Thomas N. Armstrong, III Mrs. Roy M. Goodman Mrs. Edwin Anthony Heard Mrs. David C. Gerli Mrs. Raymond Z. Fahs, Jr. Mrs. Cornelia Wooley Clifford Mrs. Cloyd Laporte Mrs. Haig Carapetyan
1986 Mrs. Helen Watson Buckner 1985 Mrs. N. Edward Mitchell 1984 Mrs. John R. Hupper 1983 Mrs. Hiram D. Black 1982 Mrs. Speight Jenkins 1981 Mrs. Eugene R. Ball 1980 Mrs. Samuel F. Carstens 1979 Mrs. Thomas H. Barton 1978 Mrs. Paul H. Raymer 1977 Mrs. Bruce A. Gimbel 1976 Mrs. Edward Tinsley Chase 1975 Mrs. Broderick Haskell 1974 Mrs. John Carrington 1973 Mrs. Joseph A. Anderson 1972 Mrs. James M. Hubbell 1971 Mrs. Charles S. Brown 1970 Mrs. Robert DeVecchi 1969 Mrs. George J. Stewart
Former Outstanding Volunteers
2015
Jana Beauchamp Sharon Bonanni Allison Marie Hyers Cynthia Vitari Song Leah Wenger 2014
Robin L. Body Colleen L. Caden Lauren Jenkins Chung Anne-Marie Peterson McMahon Amanda Koenig Stone 2013
Shanette Barth Cohen Gretchen Freydl Jeanes
Crystal L. Z. Matsibekker Julie A. Naughton Heidi Thompson 2012
Maureen Brady Atinsky Megan Karessa Hodes Stacey Lawrence Lee Patricia T. Miranda Justine V. Oddo 2011
Shari Elizabeth Aser DesirĂŠe Fish Suzanne Elizabeth Manning Laura D. Matiz Caroline Tyburczy
2010
Christine Drinan Fiona A.R. Grant Amy Phelan Jill Ferrari Saundra Smith 2009
Kara A. Dunn Elizabeth King Justine Frances Schiro Mary Prevosti Shelton Lisa Hathaway Stella 2008
Nancy C. Brown Karen L. Chin 37
Mary Hutchings Cooper Karen L. Grund Lisa Boren Sivy 2007
Soo Won Hwang Elizabeth V. Finan Marilyn Holstein Maria Falck Reina An RenĂŠe Trotter 2006
Cheryl L. Bundy Mari Terese Dubois Jeannie Egas-Trouveroy Marion S. Hedges Melissa Richards
2005
Sarah Hewitt Susan G. Munn Elizabeth Knight Sweeney Jephtha Tausig Derval M. Whelan 2004
Melissa Strock Canoni Christina M. Feicht Julie Lynn Pfeiffer Marlise Lynn Randle Dee Dee Scarborough 2003
Anne McLellan Ferguson Lisa Rossi Gorrivan Shawn Hartley Hancock Sara Stone Laughren Claire L. Luppi 2002
Cynthia Cathcart Elizabeth Illium Gena Lovett Elizabeth A. Smith Gregg Deane Swain 2000
Trisha G. Duval Cynthia Ann Hallenbeck Randi-Jean G. Hedin Suzanna S. Keith Dana Carole Pearce 1999
Ann Williams Ewell Barbara Dale Paxton Dale Jennings Perreten June Russell Reed Nicole H. Williams 1998
Rosemarie E. Dackerman Nancy Newton Sipp Robin Alicia Stratton Katherine Tsougranis Stacy E. Waggoner
1997
1990
1983
Joan Marinelli Benham Ellen Shickich Cromack Courtenay Anne Hardy Judith Strong Jorgensen A. Gale Kroeger
Martha Dolkart Bernstein Page Elizabeth Bigelow Mary Beth Mulvey Buck Suzanne Cunliffe Stirn Pamela Marvinney Underwood
Martha L. Dinerstein Frances G. Laserson Jane M. Stubenbord Joan Ward Gilda Gates Wray
1996
1989
1982
Catherine E. Baxter Harriet Louise Fitzpatrick Mary Beth O. Harvey Ellen Kratzer Jane Alling Lyons
Carol Fontaine Humstone Kathryn Love Lumpkin Nancy Eberhart Rothe Linda Miller Shrader Sherri Stephenson
Fay Gambee Suzanne F. Greenman Delia Gladys Mattson Susan M. Relyea Geraldine A. Warren
1995
1988
1981
Anne Bartlett Covell Therese Francoeur Giacomo Barbara Anne Paddock Beth Marie Reifers Frances Anne Root
Gail Peters Beitz Pamela Lee Bimson Joy Jelliffe Endo Karin Eriksen Perez Sara Gore Stone
Jeanne B. Hamilton Joan Oestreich Katherine Sincerbeaux Melissa Topping Julia Winpenny
1994
1987
1980
Peggy Anne Heinkele Dineen Pamela Hicks Ferguson Lucie Guernsey Kleinhans Ruth Ann Wood McSpadden Marcia Pearson Sendax
Eleanor Culbertson Albert Joie Angermeier Anderson Wendy Mann Hornick Thea Elliott Nolan Nancy Williams Ward
Margaret M. Boyd Barbara Lane Danser Sally Anne S. Kellogg Kathleen B. Stroh Gwendolen L. Wade
1993
1986
1979
Margaret Loughead Brenizer Catherine Herlihy Brogan Sue-Gray Goller Mary Jullien Henry Joann Shieflo Schwarberg
Ki Hackney Hribar Gwen Warner Kade Elizabeth Maier Christine Parkinson Mitchell Gracey Stoddard Sloterbeck
Mary Muir Burrell Joanne Rae Hiscox Anne K. Perkins Rebecca Myers Thomas Deanna L. Timmermans
1992
1985
1978
Nancy Geer Blackford Linda Jeanne Blatz Allison Conway Carey Patricia Stacom Elizabeth Ann Timberman
Mary Jane Hipp Brock Kim Hamilton Gottshall Laurie Grenley Hallen Linda Ward Popko Sandra Sanderson Swan
Stuart Upchurch Buice Joan E. Danziger Millicent Hall Gaudieri Lois Haase Mares Christine Valentine
1991
1984
Jane Baumgardner Granruth Allison Cooke Kellogg Margaret Jane McKinley Jessica Anne Murphey Pamela Jeanne Wright
Patricia Mosle Friedman Pamela Dixon Harris Marilyn Wright Hartman Patricia Swinney Kaufman Margo Lyden 38
1977
1970
1964
1957
Carol Williams Brown Christiane Ycre Hiegel Paula Kaplan Lipsitz Margaret Peale Phillips Sheila P. Worthington
Mrs. Charles Brush III Mrs. Christopher H. Clutz Mrs. Gerald W. Coughlin Mrs. Edward W. Keane Mrs. Robert D. Lilien Mrs. Elliott E. Vose
Mrs. Corydon B. Dunham Mrs. Andrew J. Miller Mrs. Derek L. O’Donoghue Mrs. Robert J. Sisk Mrs. Emerson Weeks
Miss Ruth Anne Bennett Mrs. Kendall A. L. Foster Mrs. James G. Leonard Mrs. Owen C. Torrey, Jr. Mrs. J. A. C. Wadsworth
1963
1956
1969
Mrs. Robert G. Collier Miss Nancy E. Dickinson Mrs. William Mellon Eaton Miss Julie Kammerer Mrs. John Porteous II
Mrs. Robert B. Cooke Miss June Dorflinger Miss Donna I. Guimaraes Miss Virginia Varet Martin Mrs. Charles S. Whitman, Jr.
1962
1955
Mrs. Gordon Dewey Mrs. Jack W. Garnant Mrs. Frank B. Hall Miss Anne Joyce Mrs. John A. Roberts
Mrs. D. Nelson Adams Mrs. John C. Carrington Miss Kate Crichton Mrs. Kevin McLoughlin Mrs. George J. Steward
1961
1954
Mrs. Joseph A. Anderson Mrs. H. Rogers Bishop Mrs. S. Jerome Dickinson Mrs. Schuyler Van Ingen Mrs. Warren Weldon
Miss Nancy Anne Barton Miss Ena Garvin Miss Joan Gray Mrs. N. Edward Mitchell Mrs. George E. Murphy
1960
1953
Miss Eleanor Greenan Mrs. Frederick R. Hanson Miss Cornelia Manierre Mrs. Norman A. Miller Mrs. Dension W. Schweppe
Mrs. Alexander Davidson, Jr. Mrs. W. Mahlon Dickerson Miss Emily Fuller Mrs. Richard Prowell Mrs. H. Oliver Rea
1959
1952
Mrs. Stirling S. Adams Mrs. Ivan Botond Miss Mary Ellis Mrs. Naomi T. Fay Mrs. Francis C. Powers
Mrs. Samuel F. Carstens Mrs. R. Burk Dawson Mrs. William Kilborne Mrs. Henry I. Stimson Mrs. Robert Y. Woodul
1976
Ms. Deane M. Allen Mrs. Terry Bevis Mrs. Mortimer L. Curran Mrs. Byron T. Foster Miss Patricia Jones 1975
Miss Caroline F. Brady Mrs. Roland W. Donnem Mrs. Charles E. Evans Mrs. Robert H. M. Ferguson Mrs. Cornelia L. Kaminski 1974
Mrs. Richard M. Beebe Mrs. Betsey Bigelow Mrs. James W. Harbison, Jr. Mrs. Winthrop M. Hodges Mrs. Michael Linburn 1973
Miss Janet M. Boe Mrs. Ralph F. Colin, Jr. Miss Patricia Rittenhouse Mrs. Frederick W. Wahlers Mrs. William Weilbacher 1972
Mrs. John W. Espy Mrs. Edward A. Hansen Mrs. Daniel R. Murphy 1971
Mrs. Henry Blodget Mrs. Henry S. Brown Mrs. John J. Devendorf Mrs. Driggs Hultkrans Mrs. David V. Smalley Mrs. E. Lisk Wyckoff
Mrs. Renato Beghe Miss Mary Kane Blair Mrs. George W. Gowen Mrs. Daniel H. Stapleton, Jr. Mrs. Ashby Sutherland 1968
Mrs. Raymond Z. Fahs, Jr. Mrs. Murray Gartner Mrs. John C. Smith Mrs. Gordon A. Strate Mrs. Donald L. Wallace 1967
Mrs. Sheldon Bryan Miss Raleigh Anne Chaffee Mrs. Larson Merrill Powell Mrs. Francis J. Prout Mrs. William J. Ruane 1966
Mrs. Robert A. Austin Mrs. Elmes Crawford Mrs. William Denson Miss Barbara S. Huss Mrs. Kenneth Mills 1965
Mrs. John Hibbs Allan Mrs. Donald D. Burr Mrs. Robert J. Chapman Miss Julia W. Linsley Miss Patricia A. Miller
1958
Mrs. Henry A. Correa Miss Judith P. Handy Mrs. Edmund F. Johnstone Miss Mary Frances Ludwig Mrs. Lawrence B. Rand, Jr. 39
NEW YORK JUNIOR LEAGUE
Board of Directors 20 15-2016 PRESIDENT
Stacey Lawrence Lee EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT
Serra Eken S E C R E TA R Y
Colleen L. Caden TREASURER
Sarah Tanner N O M I N AT I N G C H A I R
Mari Quilio D I R E C T O R S AT L A R G E
Shari E. Aser Lauren Jenkins Chung Shanette Barth Cohen Lucretia Gilbert Allison Hyers Kim Essency Pillari Mary Prevosti Shelton Anne Bahr Thompson Cynthia Vitari
40
NEW YORK JUNIOR LEAGUE
Management Council 2015-2016 Serra Eken, Executive Vice President Sharon Bonanni, Secretary Jana Beauchamp, Community Senior Council Head Mary Catherine Burdine, Fundraising Events & Affiliation Senior Council Head Courtney Guzman, Membership Senior Council Head Leah Wenger, Communications & Strategy Senior Council Head Sara Burke, Children’s Education Council Head Charlene Chuang, Adult Education & Mentoring Council Head Jeannie Egas-Trouveroy, Sustainer Council Head Nicole Ferrin, Culture & the Arts Council Head Lauren Giordani, Fundraising Events Council Head Allison Kellogg, Nominating Vice-Chair Karen Laudeman, Public Affairs Council Head Hilary McNamara, Strategic Planning Council Head Kathleen O’Leary, Internal Communications Council Head Elena Pavloff, Affiliation Council Head Shelby Spears, Child Health & Welfare Council Head Diana Spurgat, Fundraising Events Council Head Kara Van Norden, Training Council Head Anne Westpheling, Volunteer Development Council Head Dana Wolf, Finance Council Head
41
Community Impact
In May of 2014, the New York Junior League unveiled their third Annual Community Improvement Project, renovating the youth services area at the Washington Community Center of the Union Settlement Association in East Harlem.
T
he New York Junior League, a charitable, nonprofit organization of trained women volunteers, has been a leader in identifying and responding to vital needs of New Yorkers since 1901. Nearly 2,700 volunteers collectively donate more than 250,000 hours of service to better the lives of women and children in New York City each year. Through direct service, collaboration with more than 20 other community organizations and advocacy, the NYJL embodies a positive force for change within the communities it serves. The NYJL seeks to strengthen the health and well-being of the children and families of the greater New York area and currently meets this need through four distinct program areas – namely, Adult Education & Mentoring, Children’s Education, Child Health & Welfare, and Culture & the Arts.
45
Adult Education & Mentoring
Steps to Success workshops focus on providing homeless, formerly homeless, and low-income individuals and families with job skills training, empowering clients to secure financial stability and provide a home for themselves and their families.
T
his area focuses on adult life skills training and support, self-esteem and self-advocacy, companionship and guidance, and tools and resources for success. NYJL volunteers counsel and advocate for domestic violence and sexual assault victims in New York City hospitals in partnership with New York Presbyterian Hospital’s Domestic & Other Violence Emergencies program, focus on goal-setting, housing, job/career search, and finances with the Women’s Prison Association, prepare recent immigrants for their job search at the English-Speaking Union, and develop friendships with the elderly at the Jewish Home Lifecare.
46
Children’s Education Council
The Personal Empowerment Project, which is the 115th Anniversary Project of the New York Junior League, focuses on career mentoring for high school girls by opening the students’ minds to different career paths.
W
orking with community partners such as Mott Haven Academy Charter School and Women in Need, the underlying goal of the Children’s Education Council is to empower parents, guardians and caregivers with the tools that will help them build a positive future for themselves and their families. For families who are homeless, headed by a single parent or experiencing other difficulties, the stress of daily life can be overwhelming. NYJL volunteers participate in programs intended to help alleviate some of the pressures faced by today’s families and enable their children to lead fuller, healthier, and more independent lives. NYJL volunteers work with many established community partners to provide educational support in a variety of disciplines including math, science, art, financial literacy, reading and writing. In conjunction with community partners through our Done in a Day program, the NYJL also completes episodic projects, such as emergency relief events, food pantry and clothing bank services, education, mentoring, and brick and mortar improvements. In addition to these time and talent contributions to the community, the Community Improvement Project establishes a one-year partnership with a selected facility to assist in increasing the facility’s community impact through a $50,000 capital donation, accompanied by hundreds of volunteer man-hours. 47
Culture & the Arts
Spotlight on Performance committee volunteers work closely with New York City youth at Grosvenor Neighborhood House YMCA to expose them to the performing arts.
T
o help bring arts education and appreciation to underserved New York children and teenagers, NYJL volunteers design interactive projects to encourage self-expression while building confidence and self-esteem. Research shows that exposure to art and music facilitates social and communicative development in children, and NYJL volunteers provide these opportunities via robust visual and performing arts curricula and supplemental trips to venues from The Met to Carnegie Hall. Community partners in this area include P.S. 64, Grosvenor Neighborhood House YMCA, Boys and Girls Harbor and the Stanley M. Isaacs Neighborhood Center. For 25 years, NYJL volunteers have designed, planned, funded and completed a playground renovation each spring in partnership with the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation.
48
Child Health & Welfare
Through positive reinforcement, the Girls Leadership Institute committee consistently emphasize the principles of self-respect, healthy relationships, and conflict management, giving young girls the skills and confidence to live as leaders.
A
mentor is a trusted adult with a long-term, consistent commitment to provide guidance and support to at-risk youth. NYJL volunteers work to teach these young people that challenging life circumstances provide opportunities to learn, grow, and persevere. The NYJL works with a variety of community partners, including the Supportive Children’s Advocacy Network (SCAN), Mentoring USA, Andrew Glover Youth Program, and Good Shepherd Services. Volunteers provide programming that uses a positive approach, harnessing individual strengths and aiming to foster responsibility, self-esteem, initiative, and development of life skills.
49
Save the Date The NYJL has multiple fundraising opportunities throughout 2016, each of which support our important community programs. Please join us this spring at:
NYJL Shops! Saks Fifth Avenue Wednesday, March 16
Savor the Spring Thursday, April 7
Spring House Tour “Kick-Off” Party Friday, May 6
Spring House Tour Saturday, May 7
NYJL Shops! Lilly Pulitzer Wednesday, May 18
End of Year Party Friday, June 10
Awards and Recognitions The New York Junior League has received the following recognition for its community programs and projects:
October 2015 THE SINGLE PARENT RESOURCE CENTER COMMUNITY RECOGNITION AWARD for its long-standing
commitment to the Single Parent Resource Center
THE STANLEY M. ISAACS SHINING STAR AWARD for tremendous contributions to the City of New York.
May 2014
June 2013 URBAN DOVE VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR AWARD for the NYJL’s Community Improvement Project and the
May 2013 COVENANT HOUSE VOLUNTEER RECOGNITION AWARD for the NYJL and the Rights of Passage committee
organization’s commitment to improving the lives of at-risk youth.
on their commitment to serving homeless, runaway and at-risk youth.
October 2009 NAZARETH HOUSING COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD for contributions to homeless families and individuals
in New York City.
November 2007 BOWERY RESIDENTS’ COMMITTEE VOLUNTEER AWARD for providing the most volunteers and completing
the most one-day projects for the prior fiscal year.
June 2007 NEW YORK FOUNDLING VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR AWARD for the NYJL’s commitment to improving
the lives of children and families in need.
September 2005
CHRISTOPHER REEVE PARALYSIS FOUNDATION GRANT to the NYJL and Friends of Coler-Goldwater committee.
May 2005 OFFICIAL PROCLAMATION signed by Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg proclaiming Sunday, May 8, 2005, New York
May 2005 THE AJLI/ANHEUSER-BUSCH $10,000 FUND FOR THE FUTURE AWARD presented for innovative new
Junior League Mother’s Day Race to Erase Domestic Violence Day. solutions in addressing NYJL challenges.
November 2004
GROSVENOR NEIGHBORHOOD HOUSE Certificate of Gratitude for enabling them to ensure their future.
CHELSEA-ELLIOT “I HAVE A DREAM” PROGRAM Certificate of Appreciation for support of their program.
June 2004
October 2002 INFORMATION FOR FAMILIES, INC., recognition for the contribution and commitment of volunteers who share
their time and talent to improve the lives of New York City’s homeless families and children. MENTORING USA Distinguished Community Service Award for service to children.
June 2002
June 2002 GROSVENOR NEIGHBORHOOD HOUSE Certificate of Appreciation for valuable contributions to children
April 2001 MUSEUM OF THE CITY OF NEW YORK $24 AWARD for contributions that have significantly enhanced the
April 2001 AJLI ORGANIZATIONAL DEVELOPMENT AWARD Outstanding Program in Community Impact. Honorable
March 2001 THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NEW YORK for a century of commitment to improving the lives of women in
March 2001
and community.
quality of life in New York City.
Mention for the Community Health Access Model Program (CHAMP). the City of New York through advocacy and service programs.
THE IPHIGENE OCHS SULZBERGER AWARD presented by INWOOD HOUSE for contributions to family life. 51
The Winter Ball Committee
THE WINTER BALL COMMITTEE CELEBRATES AND HONORS THE 2016 OUTSTANDING SUSTAINERS AND OUTSTANDING VOLUNTEERS FOR YOUR IMPRESSIVE SERVICE AND COMMITMENT TO THE NEW YORK JUNIOR LEAGUE!
You are an inspiration to us all!
Thank You Many thanks to the individuals, corporations, foundations and other organizations who have supported the New York Junior League’s 2016 Winter Ball, “Starlight Soirée.” SILVER BENEFACTORS
IN KIND
NYJL STAFF
Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Rault III Elizabeth A. Smith & John P. Barrie Kara & Tad Van Norden
Thank you to the following supporters who gave generously of their time, goods and /or services to the Winter Ball.
We thank our wonderful New York Junior League Staff for their hard work and tremendous support.
Beanitos the Original Bean Snack Christina D’Asaro Design Dovetail ginnybakes Lukas Graphics Magency Digital Rosebud Perfume Company, Inc. The Dream Team Band The Pierre
Benito Alvarez Rene Amalvert John Donnelly Miguelina Escolastico Dinah Fuentes Elias Galindo Carla Giordani Lauren Goodwin Carol Hawkins Regan Huneycutt Horace Neal Manny Perez Magdaleno Reyes Ruth Reyes Flora Rodriguez Diann Rohde Christine Scerra Nadja Shafir Patricia Urena
CRYSTAL BENEFACTORS
BakerHostetler Bloomberg Philanthropies ESPN JPMorgan Chase & Co. MEDIA SPONSOR
Manhattan Magazine
List as of February 12, 2016 53
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Harriman Circle Thank you to the following individuals for their benefactor support of the 2016 Winter Ball, “Starlight Soirée.” Caroline Adams Shari Aser & Bill James Elizabeth Batiuchok-Colón Kyle & Jana Beauchamp Robin L. Body Mary Boehm Sharon Bonanni & Tom Marshall Bruce & Jennifer Brooks Mary Catherine Burdine Sara Burke Colleen L. Caden Ashley Carlson Amy Carpenter & Charles Kornblith John & Dayna Cassidy Charlene Chuang Lauren & Richard Chung Shanette & Bryan Cohen Katie Cook Mary Hutchings Cooper Rosemarie E. Dackerman & Andrew E. Slaby Peter & Stewart DiFiore Mr. & Mrs. James Donohue Jeannie Egas-Trouveroy Serra Eken Nicole & Brent Ferrin Elizabeth V. Finan Lindsay B. Gaylord & Benjamin J. Hague Lucretia Gilbert Lauren Giordani & Douglas Wicklund Mr. & Mrs. Luis Guzman Cristina & Ryan Hagglund Avra Arielle Hart & R Christian Wyatt Joan Heath Allison Cooke Kellogg Kristen L. Kocis A. Gale Kroeger Joseph & KoKo Lance Karen Elizabeth Laudeman Stacey & William Lee Ashley B.T. Ma & Taylor W. Copus
Suzanne E. Manning & Michael Donohue Hilary McNamara Tim Mercurio Boris Moyston Justine Oddo Allison & Edward O’Keefe Mr. & Mrs. Jeffrey Organisciak Stephanie A. Owens Emily & Kristian Parapanov Elena Pavloff Joan E. Pedley Cindy & Richard Plehn Tony Pillari & Kim Essency Pillari Ana K. Popkowski Jeri Powell & Thomas Stafford Mari & Michael Quilio Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Rault III The Reade Family Foundation Ellen & Brian Rose Dee Dee Scarborough Aneesa Sheikh & Eric Cheng Mary & Ron Shelton Catherine Christine Shoppa Teresa M. Signorelli & Richard C. Pisano Jr. Fiona Grant Small & James D. Small III Elizabeth A. Smith & John P. Barrie Douglas Song & Cynthia Vitari Song Barbara & Jordan Sprechman Diana Spurgat & Luigi Lubrano Lisa Hathaway Stella Sarah Thorpe Tanner Mr. & Mrs. Kenneth J. Tanner Jephtha Tausig Peter & Maryn Tillman Mrs. Pamela Burdine Uros & Mr. Nicholas Michael Uros Kara & Tad Van Norden Leah Wenger & Jeff Polack Courtney Wessling Dana Wolf & Brian Phillips List as of February 12, 2016 55
Underwriting Thank you to the following individuals for their support of the 2016 Winter Ball, “Starlight Soirée.” THE STARLIGHT SOCIETY: $2,500 & ABOVE
Himan Brown Charitable Trust Fiona Grant Small & James D. Small III THE AURORA BOREALIS SOCIETY: $1,500-$2,499
Jeri Powell & Thomas Stafford Kara & Tad Van Norden
THE SUPERNOVA SOCIETY: $1,000-$1,499
Charlene Chuang The Chuang Family Ashley B.T. Ma Valerie & Mark Mashburn In Honor of Celeste Rault The Moorhead Family Fund Ana K. Popkowski Dr. & Mrs. Marshall T. Schreeder In Honor of Vivian Fleming Schreeder Christina Wong Josette & Steve Winograd In Honor of Kara VanNorden THE EQUINOX SOCIETY: $500-$999
Lauren & Richard Chung Jessica DeSantes Lindsay B. Gaylord Natalie Ings Elizabeth A. Smith & John P. Barrie Liz Weaver & Family PATRON: $250-$499
April McHugh Arnold Dr. & Mrs. James Binski Margaret & Peter Carnwath Serra Eken Laraine DeFilippi & Donald Holford In Honor of Sarah Thorpe Tanner Mr. & Mrs. Campbell Hyers
Kristen L. Kocis In Memory of Dr. Dan Kocis Kathleen Li Suzanne E. Manning Tony Pillari & Kim Essency Pillari Dana Michelle Prussian Mari & Michael Quilio Diann Rohde In Memory of Dr. Dan Kocis Nicole Savery The Honorable & Mrs. David J. Weaver ASSOCIATE: $100-$249
Geraldine Aine Maureen Clancy In Honor of Andrea Wehler Shanette Barth Cohen The John T. Colas Family In Honor of Charlene Chuang Antoinette A. DeLuca Kara A. Dunn Jeannie Egas-Trouveroy Avra Arielle Hart In Memory of Kingston Astor Hart Donald Hill Nicole H. Koelle Victoria Lariar Way Luu In Honor of Charlene Chuang Charlene C. & Tom F. Marsh Anne Mauldin Cristy & Colan McGeehan Cecily Millen Lisa Nichols Stephanie A. Owens Mr. & Mrs. Keith C. Shelburn Sittmann Family 57
Charles M. Wehler In Honor of Andrea Wehler Allen Zagoren In Honor of Jennifer Zagoren Alice A. Zhang SUPPORTER: $50-$99
Laura A. Binski Johannah Coffey Mary Hutchings Cooper Maria Crist Simone Gelfand Stephanie E. Hall John & Sharen Michalec In Honor of Caroline Gordon Organisciak Rachel Nicks Alix Padnos Laurin S. Parthemos Elle Rahilly Mr. & Mrs. Marshall Tufts Schreeder, Jr. In Honor of Vivian Schreeder Vivian Schreeder Justine A. Stringer Farrell Rose Ulrich Ryan Marcus & Arielle Yeshua Leslie A. Zemnick FRIEND: GIFTS UP TO $49
Ashley Dyer In Honor of Jennifer Zagoren Patrick Furlong Meg Stirling Reile Puneet Saigal Darya Schiavetta Lauren Elizabeth Smith Leo Sternlicht Jeffrey Trogone List as of February 12, 2016
Auctions and Gifts The following is a list of the kind individuals, corporations and businesses that donated items for tonight’s silent and live auctions and gift bags. We are grateful for their participation. 67 Orange Street AHeirloom INC Altaneve amika: styleblow Anonymous Balance Water barre3 Beach Riot Beanitos, The Original Bean Snacks Beatrix Bella Cucina Maria Best Made Company BFX Studio Big Spoon Roasters Birchbox Biscuits & Bath BLADE Blowfish for Hangovers Blue Dog Bakery Blushington Make-Up & Beauty Lounge Bombas bonjour fido! BootRescue Brooklyn Boulders Brooklyn Gin Brother Mobile Solutions Brown-Forman
Bruce H. Yaffe MD Burning Torch by Chloe. Canali Club Carol A. Zemnick Jewelers Casper Cleveland Cavaliers Comic Strip Live Corkcicle Cyc Fitness D. Walker Wainwright Daisy Office Yoga dell’anima Denver Nuggets Dovetail DPM Fragrances DreamDry exhale FLEX Studios Gail Toma Gilt City ginnybakes Glam and Go GLAMSQUAD GoGo Heel Grady’s Cold Brew Gray Malin
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Hail Merry Hampton Classic Horse Show Homepolish Hotel Felix Chicago Hugo Boss Jack Nadel International Jammy Yummy Jay Butler Jay Godfrey Jennifer BANDIER Jennifer Zeuner Jewelry JINsoon John Allans John Sahag Workshop Julez Bryant kate spade New York Katherine Hooker London Katie Katterjohn Kenefick Ranch Vineyards/ Dr. Thomas Kenefick Kitchensurfing Klorane KORE Lady M Langham Place, New York, Fifth Avenue Larchmont Yacht Club Lin-Manuel Miranda
Lisa Richards & RPZL Luanne G. Lipkin Malia Mills (Malin+Goetz) mang’Oh Yoga MARGARET BONDY INTERIORS MaryAnna Coleman Design MCM Melody Morgan Miami Heat Mikel Welch Design MNDFL Mr. & Mrs. Arthur Fraser Munchery Murad Nederlander New York City Ballet nügg Beauty Of Mercer Olga A. Sweet One Love Organics, Inc R.L. Linden & Co. Radiant Pig Craft Beer Ralph Lauren Ramey Wine Cellars RedFarm REN Skincare
Rosebud Perfume Company, Inc. Royal Palms Shuffleboard Sakara Life San Antonio Spurs Scott Grossman SCOUT Bags Shapeways Simply Gum SKY TING YOGA Skyn ICELAND Soul Cycle Southampton Inn Spiritual Gangster STK Storiarts Stubbs & Wootton Studio 360 Suzanne Werson New York Italia Taste Wine CO Teapigs Tenby The Art of Fitness The Art of Shaving The Cliffs at Long Island City The Hella Company The Indigo Bunting
The Jam Stand The Lighting Science Group The McKittrick Hotel, Home of SLEEP NO MORE The Oliver Gal Artist Co The Penrose The Red Door Salon and Spa The Surf Lodge TKO-Evolution Apparel, Inc. Topping Rose House Trollbeads TroupeFit Tuckernuck Twistband U.S. Athletic Training Center Vapur VEDA Venture Photography Voilà Chocolat Votivo Waldorf Astoria Hotel New York Watch What Happens LIVE! Whitney Museum of American Art Women’s Health Workroom Social & Sewing Studio Yoga Vida
List as of February 12, 2016 59
The Winter Ball Committee would like to celebrate and honor the 2016 Outstanding Sustainers and Outstanding Volunteers for their outstanding service and commitment to the New York Junior League! We also extend our warmest thanks to our superstar co-chairs Kristen Kocis and Ana Popkowski. Thank you for all of your leadership, support and enthusiasm this year. You have made tonight’s event brilliant! A special thank you to Mary Catherine Burdine, our Fundraising Events and Affiliation Senior Council Head and Diana Spurgat, our Fundraising Events Council Head, for their guidance and support!
2016Winter Ball Committee CO-CHAIRS
Ana K. Popkowski
Kristen L. Kocis
EXECUTIVE VICE CHAIRS
Nicole H. Koelle
Jeri Powell VICE CHAIRS
April McHugh Arnold, Secretary Kimberly Babcock, External Communications Jessica DeSantes, Honorees Lindsay B. Gaylord, Fundraising Stephanie E. Hall, Auction
Kathleen Z. Li, Auction Cristy McGeehan, Events Stephanie A. Owens, Internal Communications Darya Schiavetta, Treasurer Leslie A. Zemnick, Operations
SUB-CHAIRS
Anne Mauldin, Auction Rachel Nicks, Operations Lisa Nichols, Social Vivian F. Schreeder, Honorees Brooke A. Sittmann, Events COMMITTEE
Alexandra Abington Amber-Noelle Anthony Ashley E. Astolfi Kaitlynn Bauer Laura Binski Diana Bondy Maria Crist Antoinette A. DeLuca
Avra Arielle Hart Sara Khatib Victoria Lariar Blair E. Melocik Cecily Millen Alixandra Padnos Laurin S. Parthemos Dana Prussian
Elle F. Rahilly Meg Stirling Reile Jennifer Rentzel Kaitlin Rogan Nicole A. Savery Anneliese Sendax Lauren Elizabeth Smith Justine Stringer
Farrell Rose Ulrich Liz Weaver Andrea Wehler Molly Wheeler Nicole Wilson Christina Wong Jennifer Zagoren Alice Zhang
List as of February 12, 2016 61
Congratulations to our sister,
CELESTE RAULT With love, Catherine and Christine
Celeste, Love you as NYJL Outstanding Sustainer and love you even more as my Outstanding Wife. So proud of you and proud of the service of the NYJL. LOVE, JOE
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Mom, Congratulations on your fantastic achievement as the NYJL Outstanding Sustainer. Our family is so proud of all of your success. The amazing energy you give to everything and everyone is inspiring. Your commitment and love are unmatched. It is a true blessing to call you Mom. LOVE, JOEY
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Congratulations Mom! You are such an inspiration to me and I’m so glad I can be part of the NYJL with you. I only hope that one day I can be an Outstanding Sustainer like you. I am so proud of you! Thank you for always guiding my way and for being such a great role model for me. LOVE YOU, CHRISSY
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Mom! I am always impressed with how much you give back to others. I can’t think of anyone more deserving of achieving the NYJL Outstanding Sustainer award. Congratulations! LOVE, LULE
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Congratulations, Mom! You are much more than an Outstanding Sustainer–you’re my mom! I love you so much and can never thank you enough for all of the wonder and joy you bring to my life. LOVE, NICKY
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Congratulations Celeste. An honor so richly deserved. Your New Orleans Family is proud of you. For some time you stopped being a daughter-in-law and became a daughter. LOVE FROM MRS. JOSEPH RAULT II TO MRS. JOSEPH RAULT III
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Congratulations Cece, You are not only an Outstanding Sustainer, but also an Outstanding Aunt. Thank you for all you do for your friends, family and community. XO BETS
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Congratulations Celeste on being recognized as an Outstanding Sustainer of the NYJL. You are kind and generous and gracious in everything you do. I am proud to be your friend. LOVE YOU ALWAYS, MARY
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Hi Cece Wece, You are the most fun person in the whole world. I love when you visit me in London, and I love visiting you in New York. You give the best presents and we go on the best adventures. Congrats on your award. I hope I can win awards and be as cool as you are one day. LOVE, JONATHAN
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“Be humble for you are made of earth. Be noble for you are made of stars.” —Serbian proverb
Thank you to the New York Junior League for the opportunities to live out our purpose. WITH LOVE, CHARLENE CHUANG
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Congratulations to the 2016 Outstanding Sustainers and Outstanding Volunteers! With love from the Lee family — STACEY, WILL, LEXI AND ANNIE
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Dinah, Thank you for all that you do for the Sustainers You the best and we are very happy you are ours!!! THE SUSTAINER DAY COMMITTEE
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In Honor of Ruth Reyes’ 20th anniversary at the NYJL: You greet us each and every day with your warm smile. Thank you for all that you do for each NYJL volunteer!!
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Thank you Linda Fraser!!! From all the Sustainers, thank you once again for answering the call and leading us to another great year. Your dedication, grace and humor make you our very special guardian angel.
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Congratulations to our dear friend Charlene, whom we have always known to be Outstanding. WITH LOVE FROM ALBERT, NANCY AND ASHLEY
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Congratulations to my beautiful wife and the other Outstanding Volunteers. You are an inspiration to all of us and I am so proud of you. I LOVE YOU. LUIS
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Congratulations to our dear friend and 2016 Outstanding Volunteer
Kara Van Norden for her amazing dedication and commitment to making New York City a better place. All our love, Carole, Fiona, Heidi, Jessica, Jin, Joany, Josette, Mitra, Nan and Whitney xoxo
Congratulations, Charlene! Your dedication to helping others and your unique ability to find beauty in everyday life have always inspired us. We are proud to be your friends! LOVE, NASHEED, RINA, RUPALI, SUHITHA AND WAY
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Congratulations Ana, Kristen, and all the stars of the Winter Ball committee: Tonight your efforts shine! Cheers to another year’s sparkling success. LOVE, DAYNA & ASHLEY
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“A strong woman stands up for herself. A stronger woman stands up for everyone else.” — Unknown
To Anne Westpheling, Jeannie Egas-Trouveroy and the fearless women of the Training, Volunteer Development, and Sustainer Councils, we are so grateful to you for standing with us as we empower the future of the NYJL together. With Love and Gratitude, Courtney and Kara VOLUNTEER DEVELOPMENT
TRAINING
SUSTAINERS
New Membership
Nonprofit Boards Clearinghouse
Sustainer Daytime
Placement
Junior Junior League
Sustainer Evening
Provisional Training
Volunteer Training & Leadership
Headquarters Beautification
Transfers
Forum for Nonprofits
Career Networking
Congratulations to the 2016 Outstanding Sustainers and Outstanding Volunteers of the New York Junior League! We also toast Stephanie and the Winter Ball committee for this evening’s soirÊe and your tremendous work in the community. MUCH LOVE, CARMEN AND ALYSSA OWENS
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Jenny Laudeman congratulates the 2016 Outstanding Sustainers and Outstanding Volunteers on their commitment to furthering the mission of the New York Junior League.
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Congratulations, Sarah, on this wonderful honor. Truly, you are outstanding in every way. WITH LOVE FROM YOUR FAMILY
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Nancy Scully, & Gladys Mattson-Sullivan and the Headquarters Beautification committee, thank you for being the best stewards of the Astor House, our home.
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Family is not an important thing. It’s everything.
— Michael J. Fox
My Dearest Tad, Duncan, and Christopher, You are my everything and more. I love you always. XO, KARA (MOM)
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From near and far, tonight we raise a glass of bubbly to the adventurous, loyal, thoughtful and fun Miss Charlene — Who makes the world a better place for us all. We love you! 24 GARDEN
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The Cassidy Family supports the good works of the New York Junior League to enrich our community and better the lives of others. Congratulations to the entire 2016 Winter Ball team on a spectacular fundraising event, the Starlight SoirĂŠe!
The stars that shine the brightest are those who shine for the benefit of others! — Anonymous JOHN, DAYNA & WALKER
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Membership Rocks! Heartfelt congratulations to Courtney and Kara. Anne and I love this team. It’s a joy and an honor to work with you. With love, JEANNIE EGAS-TROUVEROY
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Congratulations Courtney Guzman and Kara Van Norden
our Outstanding Membership colleagues and friends We are inspired by you every day.
Thank you for all you do! Elizabeth Ann Beller Casey Cammatte Rosemarie Dackerman Jeannie Egas-Trouveroy Elizabeth Finan
Gina Grilli Katrina Hennigan Melissa Horne Colleen Hoy Danielle Lachance
Kate McGlynn Melinda Mehfar Joan Pedley Tiffany Piecewicz Kristen Settlemire
Melody Finkelstein Megan Freeland
Jennifer Lagnado Griffin Marr
Teresa Signorelli Anne Westpheling
Congratulations to our wonderful daughter, Courtney Morris Guzman! “There are two ways of spreading light: to be the candle or the mirror that reflects it.� (Wharton) You and your fellow Outstanding Volunteers are true beacons of hope that illuminate the New York City community.
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Congratulations to Charlene, who is Outstanding as a Volunteer, Friend, and Aunt to cats. We love you! JACK & WES
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Congratulations to the 2016 Outstanding Sustainers and Outstanding Volunteers on your achievement. Your dedication to the NYJL and the City of New York is inspirational and infectious. JOSEPH, KOKO, ADONIS AND APOLLO LANCE
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Rohde Sisters Ranch Salutes The
2016 Oustanding Sustainers & Oustanding Volunteers for “cowgirling up� as fantastic volunteers!
Congratulations to the 2016 Honorees! Outstanding Sustainers
Celeste D. Rault and Elizabeth A. Smith Outstanding Volunteers
Charlene Chuang, Courtney Morris Guzman, Caroline Gordon Organisciak, Sarah Thorpe Tanner, and Kara Suzanne Van Norden 2012 Linda Fraser Caroline Williamson Maureen Brady Atinsky Megan Hodes Stacey Lawrence Lee Pati Miranda Justine Oddo
2011 Deane Allen Gilliam Diann Rohde Shari Elizabeth Aser Caroline Donohue DesirĂŠe Fish Suzanne Elizabeth Manning Laura D. Matiz
2010 Helen Pennoyer Pamela Bimson Reade Amy Phelan Christine Drinan Fiona Grant Small Saundra Smith Jill Ferrari
The Class of 2015 warmly congratulates the 2016 Outstanding Sustainers & Outstanding Volunteers You are all amazing stars!
THE HAMPTON CLASSIC HORSE SHOW CONGRATULATES THE nEW yORK jUNIOR lEAGUE’S 2016 OUTSTANDING VOLUNTEERS & SUSTAINERS
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2016 outstanding sustainers Celeste d. rault
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elizabeth a. smith
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You’re Outstanding!!! Congratulations!!! Joie Anderson, Karen Chin, Mary Cooper, Wendy Hornick and Lisa Boren Sivy
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Charlene Chuang
Courtney morris guzman Caroline gordon organisciak sarah Thorpe Tanner
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Congratulations 2016 Outstanding Sustainers and Outstanding Volunteers
We are excited to celebrate you! The Outstanding Sustainers &
I N L O V I N G M E M O RY O F
DR. DAN KOCIS JR. Dr. Dan was a vivacious, generous, hilarious, perceptive, supportive, driven, and brilliant man who very much enjoyed life. He was a selfless and fearless leader, who had a fierce and passionate love for his children and family. He is in our hearts today, and every day. Kristen, we know how proud of you he is and how proud you will continue to make him.
With love to Kristen, DJ, & Karen, April Arnold Kimberly Babcock Dayna Cassidy Charlene Chuang Jessica DeSantes Ryan Feininger Lindsay Gaylord Stephanie Hall Avra Hart Nicole Koelle Victoria Lariar Kathleen Li Ashley Ma
Anne Mauldin Cristy McGeehan Brooke Moorhead Lisa Nichols Rachel Nicks Stephanie Owens Ana Popkowski Jeri Powell Darya Schiavetta Vivian Schreeder Brooke Sittmann Allison Black Spicer Dana Wolf
Outstanding Volunteers of 2014
Congratulations to our fearless leader,
Charlene Chuang
We adore you - The Adult Education and Mentoring Council Kelsey Bishop Raven Carter Malinda Feng Leslie Fish Caitlin Innes
Mary Marshall Contessa Officer Allison O’Keefe Catherine Perrone
CONGRATULATIONS
SARAH TANNER
Kelly Purcell Sarah Rodriguez Kristine Shoemaker Rebecca Mummert Swartz Nadia Thursfield
The 2009 New York Junior League Outstanding Sustainers and Outstanding Volunteers are proud to honor our friends who are
TRULY OUTSTANDING IN EVERY WAY 2016 NEW YORK JUNIOR LEAGUE OUTSTANDING SUSTAINERS
Celeste R. Rault and Elizabeth A. Smith 2016 NEW YORK JUNIOR LEAGUE OUTSTANDING VOLUNTEERS
Truly Outstanding, with Exceptional Taste
The Food & Beverage Committee
Charlene Chuang, Courtney Morris Guzman, Caroline Gordon Organisciak, Sarah Thorpe Tanner, and Kara Suzanne Van Norden CLASS OF 2009
Melissa Bernstein, Fran G. Laserson Kara Dunn, Liz King, Justine Schiro, Mary Prevosti Shelton, Lisa Hathaway Stella
TTTTTTTTTT
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TTTTTTTTTT Honoring 2016 Outstanding Volunteer
Mrs. Caroline Gordon Organisciak
Congratulations, Carrie!
The O’s of 2013 Celebrate the O’s of 2016! Charlene Chuang, Courtney Guzman, Caroline Organisciak, Celeste Rault, Elizabeth Smith, Sarah Tanner, and Kara Van Norden
It is an honor to work with you. Community Program Research Committee TTTTTTTTTT
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The Finance Committee celebrates our chair and Outstanding Volunteer
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Congratulations and Best Wishes to our Dear Friend & Sensational Junior League and Community Volunteer:
Sarah Tanner
Betsy Smith
It makes perfect dollars and cents to us!
Outstanding Sustainer 2016 Outstanding Volunteer 2002
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June, Joy, Joan & Dee Dee
Congratulations to the 2016 New York Junior League Outstanding Volunteers & Outstanding Sustainers!
Dancing Classrooms Contemporaries Network wishes Courtney Guzman
congratulations
We are so grateful for your dedication, and excited to celebrate you! With very best wishes from the 2015-2016 Provisional Training Committee
Courtney, We are so proud to work with you. Congratulations on this NYJL honor! —The Dancing Classrooms Contemporaries
Brooke Bayer, Elizabeth Beller, Lindsay Casale, Cassandra Freeman, Kim Jackson, Rachel Sullivan, and Anne Westpheling
Congratulations to our 2016 OUTSTANDING VOLUNTEER
You have always given more than you’ve received, and now it’s time for us to celebrate your generous heart and hard work. We’re so proud of you. Dad & Janice
Honoring 2016 Outstanding Volunteer
Charlene Chuang
The Sustainer Council Proudly Congratulates 2016 OUTSTANDING SUSTAINERS
Celeste D. Rault Elizabeth A. Smith 2016 OUTSTANDING VOLUNTEER
Courtney Morris Guzman Congratulations, Charlene! We are so honored to work with you, Community Council Heads and Associates
Career Networking Group Headquarters Beautification Sustainer Day Committee Sustainer Evening Committee
Huge thanks to our Senior Council Head, Mary Catherine Burdine, and our Council Head, Diana Spurgat. Thank you for believing in, listening to, and teaching us this year! We are so appreciative of your help in making the 2016 Winter Ball a success. Ana Popkowski & Kristen Kocis 2016 Winter Ball Co-Chairs
THANK YOU TO THE 2015-2016 WINTER BALL COMMITTEE FOR MAKING TONIGHT POSSIBLE! TONIGHT YOU WILL ALL SHINE BRIGHTLY. WITH LOVE AND GRATITUDE,
ANA & KRISTEN
Shows 7 Nights a Week www.comicstriplive.com
(212) 861-9386
Congratulations
to the following volunteers on their dedication to the New York Junior League and service to the community. We celebrate you and your milestone achievement! 5 YEARS
Frances Abel Caroline Adams Cristina Allegretti Shana Allen Jennifer Askin Pollock Lauren Austin Christina Beale Elizabeth Beller Lauren Borman Sierra Brown Jennifer Brown Mary Catherine Burdine Sara Burke Grace Cacucciolo Lauren Capen Katie Carr Rebecca Cavallaro Angela Cavis Meredith Coburn Johannah Coffey Melissa Cook Antonia Dean April Dennis Nicole DiOrio Ann Dragovits Maria Duckett Antonia Floyd Kate Garvin Ann Glover Michelle Go Kathleen Grishman Susan Hamlin Bridget Henne Cassandra Henry Mary Horan Caroline Hornbeck Helen Howe Hayden Howell Lauren Huray Ambreen Hussain Caitlin Innes Julia Kiel Kimberly Kiernan Virginia Knight Katherine Kulovitz Danielle Lachance Merideth Lake Morgan Leathers Cassandra Lenahan Prema Magid Jessica Marshall Sarah McGee
Shelby McKay Megan McLaughlin Anne Mears Chryssi Mikus Leighanna Morbey Megan Napier Hailey Nicholson Melanie Nolan Rachel Nordlinger Molly O’Connor Emily O’Neill Arielle Patrick Alexandra Porter Kelly Purcell Margaret Rainka KC Riess Elizabeth Rigsbee Ariel Roberts Ashley Schmidt Stephanie Shepherd Diana Spurgat Roberta Steele Jaclyn Stewart Irma Taveras Maryn Tillman Dawne Troupe Tristan Tully Caroline Turner Chelsea Vukelic Nina Wainwright Mary-Elizabeth Walker Amy Wein Precious Williams, Esq. Dana Wolf Isabel Yordan 10 YEARS
Alexis Banaszak Robin Body Virginia Butters Sarah Cloonan Katherine DeConti Jennifer Drag Katherine DuckworthSchachter Katrina Dudley Serra Eken Brittany Espy Marian Gaynor Ashley Goldman Karen Hall Beth Huber Kristen Korngold Tina Lowry
Jennifer Maloni Sheila McCauley Marissa McFarland Kristen McGinnis Kimberly McLeod Melinda Mehfar Mary Mehr Joan Merrill Patricia Miranda Dana Obrentz Kristen Oliver Lizzie Ray Randa Reford Carson Sieving Shirley Smith Ashley Smith Ranieri Kristin Sonon Yohanna Sowler Emily Thaler Margot Tohn Randa R. Trivisonno Katherine Trock Lucille Ulmer Kara Van Norden Leah Wenger Anne Westpheling Sarah Wolfe 15 YEARS
Lisa Abel Susan Aijala Gloria Altherr Elaine Arace Shari Aser Rosario Baldwin Stephanie Bibighaus Mary Bruhn Sangeetha Chakinala Danielle Dahlstrom Danielle Faris Desiree Fish Lelia Fowler Jennifer Gunsberger Holly Hubbell Anne Hunt Fink Amanda Koenig Stone Caroline Lee Olivia Leon Kamie Lightburn Lisa Long Teresa Lopez-Vandever Liane Pei Justine Schiro
30 YEARS Jenny Sherman Joanne Adams Leigh Taub Beth Andrews Diane Tsakalakis Caroline Tyburczy Donohue Susan Beer Antica Black 20 YEARS Louise Caldwell Heather Brownlie Carol Campbell Elizabeth Fuller Deborah Demich Melissa Gibbons Nicole Dietrich Mary Herms Carol Duffy Daria Incorvaia Paula Fagan Margaret Langan Susan Fisher Bobbi Langer Audrey Garr Cathryn Lorenz Michele Gerber-Klein Gena Lovett Therese Giacomo Hillary Miller Carole Gilliam Helen Monti Courtenay Hardy Sara Moose Esslie Hughes Claire Mungiguerra Elizabeth Kousi Lorena O’Brien Marguerite Morrison Maria Reina Marjorie Nichols Elizabeth Samek O’Malley Linda Pennfield Kimberly Thomsen Carmen Petts Michele Turton Marie Powers Michelle WestcottLynn Quinn Richards Ellen Rose Jennifer Wittmer Denise C R Santomero Pamela Scott 25 YEARS Mary Selover Kathryn Booth Rita Thomas Barbara Brafman Suzanne Tufts Barbara Burger Elizabeth Walton Kathryn L Campbell Wendy Weiler Caroline Contiguglia Patricia Yarberry-Allen Elizabeth Deneny Martha Zipp JoEllen Goldman Jeanne Huff 35 YEARS Charlotte Luer Page Bigelow Diana McGhie Barbara Gill Roberta McNeill Dey Gosse Carol Midyette Susan Isacoff Sarah Miller Allison Kellogg Susan Mooradian Sarah Nash Lynda Packard Catherine Pradie Barbara Paxton Frances Root Eugenie Pliakis Allyson Samson June Reed Rosalyn Smith Dee Dee Scarborough Marree Townsend Rebecca Seaman Ainslie J. Uhl Anne Bahr Thompson Janet Van Cleave Stacy Waggoner Katherine Walthausen Lorna Walsh Pamela Warren Susan Zimmer
40 YEARS
Pamela Banks Mary Jane Brock Jean Grainger Bettysue Hughes Ellen Katz A. Gale Kroeger Carolyn Maloney Sue Melvin 45 YEARS
Roberta Allardyce Barbara Austin Sally Butler Alice Concagh Christina Davis Grace Keppel Suzanne Maney Elizabeth Robinson Carolyn Smith 50 YEARS
Jean Baruch Caroline Brady Caroline Brown Barbara Clutz Catherine Crane Carol Humstone Julia Lusk Sally Minard Joan Oestreich Patricia Sullivan 55 YEARS
Bunty Armstrong Joan Danziger Gail Irwin Hartman Caroline Laporte Christine Mitchell 60 YEARS
Margaret Harbison Phyllis Heard Terry Ivy Tomiyo R. Prout 65 YEARS
Odette Austin Mary Ellen Burgess Margaret Fisher Rosalie Weir 70 YEARS
Betty Hamnett 80 YEARS
Florence Berry
The Astor House – home to the New York Junior League’s headquarters – is a historic, five-story townhouse built by master architect Mott B. Schmidt for Vincent Astor on Manhattan’s Upper East Side. An ideal setting and a convenient location for an elegant affair, the Astor House offers private rooms available for social and corporate events. Our townhouse can accommodate seated luncheons or dinners for 120, or 250 guests for an hors d’oeuvres and cocktail reception utilizing the first and second floors. For more information about special events, meeting planning, or to arrange a private function in our historic mansion, please contact Astor House manager at 212.606.0237 or email at info@nyjl.org. The Astor House • 130 East 80th Street • New York, New York 10075 WWW.THEASTORHOUSE.ORG