On Wednesday, November 20, New York Public Radio, home to WNYC and WQXR, hosted its 2024 annual gala, celebrating WNYC’s 100 years on the air.
The centennial event paid tribute to WNYC’s century of service, from its origins as New York’s first City-run radio station to its transformation into an independent, listener-supporter public radio station and global leader in audio storytelling.
NYPR produces innovative, critically acclaimed programming for local and national broadcast, on-demand and live streaming audiences. NYPR’s brands include WNYC, WQXR, WNYC Studios, Gothamist, New Jersey Public Radio, and The Jerome L. Greene Performance Space. The WNYC newsroom and Gothamist produce award-winning local journalism for New York City, New Jersey and the surrounding region. WQXR, the City’s only all-classical radio station broadcasts new and archival classical recordings and makes live performances from New York City’s esteemed performance venues available to all.
NYPR’s largest gala ever raised over $2.1 million to support its vital work providing New Yorkers trusted local, national, and international news, civic conversation, and cultural and classical music programming.
The event, held at The Glasshouse, was hosted by Seth Meyers — comedian, best-selling writer, and host of NBC’s Late Night with Seth Meyers. Notable attendees included special guests actress Meryl Streep, actress Julia Stiles, actress Rosie Perez, actor and filmmaker John Turturro, comedians Samantha Bee and Jason Jones, Principal Clarinet of the New York Philharmonic Anthony McGill, and more.
Special musical performances featured Grammy- and two-time Tony Award nominee Shoshana Bean (currently starring in Broadway’s Hell’s Kitchen); acclaimed jazz pianist and composer Aaron Diehl; and the award-winning Young People’s Chorus of New York City, led by Francisco J. Nuñez. The evening included remarks from NYPR President/CEO LaFontaine E. Oliver and Board of Trustees Chair Timothy Williams. Attending WNYC hosts included Brian Lehrer (The Brian Lehrer Show), Alison Stewart (All of It), Latif Nasser (Radiolab), Brooke Gladstone, and Micah Loewinger (Peabody award-winning On the Media), John Schaefer (New Sounds), and WQXR hosts Annie Bergen, Elliott Forrest, and Paul Cavalconte.
The evening honored the Leon Levy Foundation, which enabled the digitization of WNYC’s archives through a generous $2.5M contribution — ensuring access to historical documents, recordings, and photographs that chronicle the institution’s public engagement and role in New York City’s history since 1924.
The ‘Black Tie optional/Centennial Chic’ gala also recognized the outstanding commitment and vision of NYPR’s Trustees, past and present, including Judith M. Carson, Peter H. Darrow, Eduardo Mestre, Mayo Stuntz, Jr., Nicki Newman Tanner, Wilma S. Tisch, Cynthia King Vance, Alan G. Weiler, and posthumous honoree Alexander Kaplan.
Gala Highlights included a warm and intimate cocktail hour where NYPR’s esteemed hosts and staff mingled with dedicated donors, members, and special guests. The night opened with an enchanting performance by the award-winning Young People’s Chorus of New York City, led by Francisco J. Núñez.
Comedian Seth Meyers delivered a witty and heartfelt opening monologue, including playful jabs at the room and a touching tribute to WNYC’s Alison Stewart, who recently recovered from brain surgery.
NYPR President and CEO LaFontaine E. Oliver took the stage to reflect on the organization’s extraordinary century of impact. In his remarks, he celebrated the contributions of Laura Walker, who led NYPR for 23 years, and honored long-serving staff members with over 25 years of service. Board Chair Timothy Wilkins also recognized Centennial Stewards, mentors, and predecessor chairs for their long-standing commitment.
A thrilling live auction hosted by renowned auctioneer Harry Santa-Olalla, which included a headline-grabbing $81,000 bid for a private castle retreat, contributing to the record-breaking funds raised to support NYPR’s mission.
Actress Rosie Perez, a devoted WNYC listener, charmed the crowd with her heartfelt reflection on the station’s impact, sharing her personal connection to public radio and her love for Brian Lehrer. Jazz pianist Aaron Diehl and bassist David Wong delivered an elegant dinner performance. Broadway star Shoshana Bean closed out the dinner program with a show-stopping rendition of “Give My Regards to Broadway” and an excerpt of “Empire State of Mind.”
The evening concluded with a lively after-party hosted by filmmaker and author New York Nico, which embodied the city’s eclectic spirit. Hip-hop artist and activist Talib Kweli took on DJ duties, as guests mingled with WNYC & WQXR hosts indulging in classic NYC treats and an open bar.
More information about programs, podcasts, and stations may be found at www.nypublicradio.org.
Photo Credit: Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images
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