Graham’s “Reach for the Stars” Gala benefit

In honor of Georgia Wall and in support of Graham’s children and families—was truly magnificent! It was a record-breaking event for Graham that, with full Board support and generous contributions from so many caring New Yorkers, raised more than $3.2 million to help 5,000 kids and families achieve their education, work, and life goals.

The night opened with the Marching Cobras drumming up fanfare and closed with a spirited performance of “My Shot” by cast members of the Tony Award and Pulitzer Prize Winning Musical Hamilton who also surprised us with a serenade of “Georgia on My Mind” dedicated to Georgia Wall. Tears flowed, not only down my smiling cheeks, but across the beautiful, star-studded room.

Thanks to our Co-Chairs Rich Rothman and Ken Bryant for inspiring others to support our mission as we seek to scale our signature coaching models across the city and the nation. It was so powerful to share the work of Graham with close friends and new guests alike, and to welcome to the stage my amazing predecessors Poul Jensen and Jess Dannhauser who helped us to pay tribute to Georgia’s 30 extraordinary years of leadership—and celebrate the collective efforts of our Board, staff, and volunteers—a mighty and passionate team, nearly 700 strong.

Special thanks to our Gala benefit committee led by trustees Jen Mackesy and Heather McVeigh with support from Tess O’Dwyer, CMI Events, and Graham’s own Mayra Pacheco. A special shout out to Graham alum Sheniqua Roberts for providing riveting testimony about the transformative impact of having a Graham SLAM coach in her remarkable life. To the 500 people who came out in support of Graham’s children and families, thank you! For the countless others who care about Graham but who could not join us—thank you too! Thank you all for making our work possible!

And last but not least—thank you, Georgia Wall, for teaching all of us at Graham how to reach for the stars. Your vision, passion, dedication are truly peerless!

CLICK HERE TO SEE PHOTOS FROM THE WONDERFUL CELEBRATION.