Transformative Power of Arts Education celebrated the organization’s mission to provide access to the arts and humanities for all DC public and chartered public school students.
Jeff Travers, President of the DC Collaborative, Louise Kennelly, Executive Director of the DC Collaborative and Calvin Cafritz of the President of the The Morris & Gwendolyn Cafritz Foundation. His organization was presented with the 1st Annual Spirit Leadership Award.
The DC Arts & Humanities Education Collaborative hosted a Benefit Gala at La Masion Francaise at the Embassy of France recently to support arts and humanities education for youth. Joined by the nation’s top leaders in business, international and national government, education, fine arts, and entertainment, the evening offered guests an opportunity to support arts and humanities education for youth.
“The gala brings together those who believe in the importance of providing access to high-quality arts and humanities experiences to school children,” said Louise Kennelly, Executive Director of the DC Arts & Humanities Education Collaborative. “DC offers unparalleled opportunities for art experiences and it is our mission to work alongside our members to ensure that all DC public school students benefit from the resources right here in their back yard.”
The evening kicked-off with wine and passed hors d’oeuvres amidst student decorated butterfly sculptures and other student artwork, and a performance by the DC Youth Orchestra. The menu, catered by the French Embassy, included: Smoked Salmon, Lobster and Scallop Phillo Cups, Chicken and Avocado Tartlets, Croquet Provencal, and Baby Lamb Chops.
Special guest Wendy Rieger, NBC4 News Anchor, emceed the awards ceremony and presented the 1st Annual Spirited Leadership Award to The Morris and Gwendolyn Cafritz Foundation. Tim Tate, a contemporary glass artist, created the custom award. A live auction, conducted by award-winning columnist Bob Levey, offered guests a chance to support the cause. A dessert buffet and dancing to the sounds of DJ Jahsonic concluded the evening.
“The arts are a powerful tool and encourage the development of well-rounded children,” said Jade Floyd, gala co-chair and DC Collaborative Board Member. “All young people in our city deserve diverse cultural experiences and the opportunity to express themselves through the arts that the programming provides.”
Jade Floyd 2011 Gala Co-Chair, Gina Sacripanti 2011 Gala Co-Chair, Louise Kennely Executive Director of the DC Collaborative.
