Young Audiences Arts for Learning’s 2019 Gala was held on Tuesday, October 29th, at the Mandarin Oriental New York. Longtime patrons, new friends, dedicated volunteers, and colleagues from the field joined us to support arts in education, and honor actor and director Joel Marsh Garland for his commitment and advocacy on behalf of Young Audiences.
The night kicked off with a cocktail hour, followed by a three-course dinner in the Mandarin's elegant 36th floor ballroom. Serving as the master of ceremonies was James H. Gellert, National Board President, who shared highlights of Young Audiences Arts for Learning's work and impact over the past year. As the evening's honoree, Joel Marsh Garland delivered heartfelt remarks and detailed the profound impact that participation in the arts had on his own youth. After dinner, Jill Simonson Luciano, Community Outreach Lead at Southwest Airlines, surprised attendees with a giveaway drawing, awarding one lucky gala guest with two roundtrip tickets to a Southwest destination of their choice. The evening concluded with a special musical performance by Vicci Martinez and Emily Tarver, including an original song dedicated to Joel.
Thanks to our generous guests and gala donors, we raised meaningful funding to support innovative arts learning programs that raise academic and artistic achievement, while building skills for success in curricular endeavors, creative pursuits, and life itself. On behalf of our National Board of Directors and the Young Audiences Arts for Learning Network, thank you to everyone who helped us celebrate the power of the arts to inspire young people and expand their learning.
If you were unable to join us, but would like to support our gala or honor Joel Marsh Garland with a donation, please click here or contact Barbara Davis at 212-831-8110 or barbara@ya.org.
View Photos from Young Audiences Arts for Learning's 2019 Gala!
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