The HSAs’ 50th Year Anniversary Gala Kickoff raises over $1 million.
This years gala kickoff was held in the Grand Ballroom at The Plaza. The star-studded evening acknowledged artists, community leaders and activists that represent outstanding achievement in arts advocacy, philanthropy and community leadership. HSAs’ mission is to empower young people from under-served communities throughout the city and Harlem. The funds raised goes towards those said under-served communities.
Honorees for HSA’s 50th Anniversary Gala included: renowned soprano Jessye Norman (Dorothy Maynor Award) and actress and activist Cicely Tyson (Betty Allen Lifetime Achievement Award). Artist Kehinde Wiley, Grammy-winning singer/entertainer Alicia Keys and Keys’ mother Terria Joseph were each be presented with Visionary Artist Awards. The Corporate Award was presented to Steinway & Sons (Michael Sweeney, CEO; the award was accepted by John Paulson, Chairman) and the Civic Award was presented to the Honorable Keith L.T. Wright. David Ushery, Anchor for NBC 4 New York, served as Master of Ceremony alongside HSA student hosts for the evening, and auctioneer CK Swett hosted a live auction with lots that include a four-day, three-night vacation in the British Virgin Islands, a dinner for 16 guests prepared by Alexander Smalls, Executive Chef of The Cecil & Minton’s restaurants in Harlem, and a Cuban vacation with Grammy-winning pianist and bandleader, Arturo O’Farrill.
HSA stands among New York City’s premier arts institutions as a provider of quality arts education in music, dance, theatre and visual arts. HSA boasts an impressive alumni base of Tony-award winning actors, celebrated operatic voices and jazz musicians, visual artists, dancers, and inspired citizens.
For more information about Harlem School of the Arts, visit www.HSAnyc.org