LITERACY PARTNERS GALA HONORS PATRICIA CORNWELL, SHERRIE WESTIN, BARBARA TOBER, AND SABASTIAN NILES
Literacy Partners marked the 40th anniversary of its Evening of Readings & Gala Dinner with a black-tie celebration at Pier Sixty at Chelsea Piers in New York City, raising $1.3 million in support of the nonprofit’s literacy programs. Hosted by award-winning journalist Lesley Stahl, the annual event brought together leaders from the literary, philanthropic, business, and civic communities to recognize individuals whose work reflects a commitment to education, storytelling, and expanding access to opportunity.
Founded in 1986 by the late columnist Liz Smith, the Evening of Readings & Gala Dinner has become Literacy Partners’ signature fundraising event. The organization works to advance literacy across generations by supporting adults, parents, and caregivers with education programs designed to strengthen reading, language, and parenting skills.
One of the evening’s most memorable moments came when a Literacy Partners student shared her personal journey of learning English through the organization’s programs before becoming a mentor for other students. She also spoke about pursuing a career in healthcare while supporting her children’s academic success, highlighting the long-term impact of Literacy Partners’ mission.
This year’s Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to bestselling crime novelist Patricia Cornwell, whose work has helped shape contemporary crime fiction over several decades.
Sabastian Niles, President and Chief Legal Officer of Salesforce, received the Distinguished Leadership in Literacy Award in recognition of leadership that emphasizes access, equity, and opportunity.
Barbara Tober, longtime Editor-in-Chief of BRIDES magazine and noted philanthropist, received the Lizzie Award, named in honor of the gala’s founder Liz Smith. Tober was recognized for her longstanding contributions to publishing, arts patronage, and civic engagement.
Sherrie Westin, President and CEO of Sesame Workshop, received the Champion of Literacy Award for her leadership of the nonprofit organization behind “Sesame Street” and its ongoing commitment to children’s education and early literacy initiatives around the world.
During the evening, Literacy Partners CEO Asaf Bar-Tura reflected on the organization’s mission, stating:
“This gathering, which celebrated remarkable literacy champions, demonstrated that when we come together, a better future is possible. Literacy is a gateway to social mobility and economic opportunity. The Literacy Partners community will continue to insist on a nation where everyone has the opportunity to read, work, engage, and thrive.”
Among those attending the gala were Lesley Stahl, Patricia Cornwell, Sabastian Niles, Barbara Tober, Sherrie Westin, Asaf Bar-Tura, David Westin, Jean Shafiroff, Sheila Nevins, Perri Peltz, Courtney E.K. Lewis, and Bill Buford.
The event raised $1.3 million to support Literacy Partners’ research-based literacy programs, which focus on helping adults, parents, and caregivers develop the skills needed to create stronger educational outcomes for themselves and the children in their care.
