The New York Junior League proved that charity and elegance are timeless, raising a record-breaking $1 million at its 74th Annual Winter Ball.
On Saturday, February 28th, the pillars of New York society descended upon the stunning Cipriani South Street for an evening of elegance and impact. The occasion was the “Gilded Legacy: Celebrating 125 Years of Impact” —a sold-out, black-tie affair hosted by the New York Junior League, marking both the 74th iteration of the iconic Winter Ball and the NYJL’s 125th anniversary.
In a historic milestone for the organization, the glittering gala raised $1 million, setting a new fundraising record for the Winter Ball’s long and storied history. The funds will directly support the NYJL’s expansive network of community partnerships, advocacy initiatives, and volunteer training programs.
A Legacy Forged in 1901
The evening’s “Gilded Legacy,” theme was a deliberate nod to the organization’s founding in 1901 by the visionary Mary Harriman, who dared to believe that women could be a powerful, organized force for social good. What began as a single group in New York has since blossomed into a global movement of nearly 300 Junior Leagues across the United States and abroad.
Attendees were transported to that era of grandeur, not just through the lavish decor of Cipriani South Street, but through a powerful program that reflected on 125 years of civic impact. The night served as a bridge between the organization’s philanthropic roots and its forward-looking vision for empowering women in leadership.
Honoring Valerie S. Mason
The Legacy Award Honoree was presented to Valerie S. Mason, and was established specifically in honor of the 125th anniversary, recognizing a woman whose career and community service embody the League’s founding principles.
Mason, a highly respected attorney and executive, currently serves as Chair of the Lender Finance practice group at Otterbourg P.C. and as Chair of Manhattan Community Board 8. Her dual leadership in law and local governance exemplifies the NYJL’s mission of training volunteers to step into civic leadership roles.
NYJL President Jeri Powell took the stage to honor Mason, celebrating her as a paragon of the League’s enduring commitment to strengthening New York communities through dedicated leadership.
The Guest List and Atmosphere
With nearly 1,000 guests in attendance, the ballroom was a sea of couture gowns and black tie finery. Beyond the leaders of the NYJL’s 2,500+ volunteer base, the guest list glittered with notable New York names. Among the high-profile attendees were vintage luxury retail moguls Seth Weisser and Gerard Maione, the co-founders of the famed “What Goes Around Comes Around,” who also served as in-kind sponsors for the event.
The Power of Partnership
The record-breaking success of the 74th Annual Winter Ball was bolstered by an impressive roster of corporate and philanthropic support. Leading the charge as corporate sponsors were heavyweights including Bloomberg Philanthropies, Kirkland & Ellis, Morgan Stanley, The Sack Group at Morgan Stanley, Marsh McLennan Agency, and Otterbourg P.C., among others.
The evening’s aesthetic and indulgence were elevated by in-kind contributions from Fleurish by Marc Eliot, Whispering Angel, Monsieur Touton Selection, Ltd., and illustrations by Deanna First, ensuring every detail gleamed as brightly as the charitable cause.
*For more information on the New York Junior League and its 125th anniversary initiatives, visit www.NYJL.org. Photo Credit: Madeleine Thomas/BFA.com*
