JCU Host 2024 New York Gala

John Cabot University hosted the New York Gala on Tuesday, April 9, 2024, at the University Club in New York City. The New York Gala, which takes place annually, is an event honoring those within our community and beyond who have contributed to the University and supported academic initiatives, scholarships, and cultural programs. Over 250 guests from the worlds of business, fashion, academia, and diplomacy attended the Gala.

This year's distinguished honoree was Stephen J. Squeri, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of American Express. Squeri is also a member of the Business Roundtable, where he chairs the Corporate Governance Committee, as well as The Business Council and the American Society of Corporate Executives. He also sits on the Board of Trustees of Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and The Valerie Fund, as well as the boards of both his alma maters, as Chair of the Board of Trustees at Manhattan College and a member of the Board of Governors at Monsignor McClancy Memorial High School.

The night started with remarks by Trustees and Co-Chairs of the Gala Committee, Vivian Cardia and Stefano Acunto, who welcomed the crowd and introduced prominent individuals in the audience. Chairman of the Board of Trustees Salvatore Salibello, and JCU President Franco Pavoncello also greeted guests, followed by alumnus Francesco Ruspoli (Class of 1994), President of the JCU Alumni Association and Member of the JCU Board of Trustees.

The evening continued with the presentation of The Frank J. Guarini Award for Leadership in Business to Stephen J. Squeri. The award is named for the former U.S. Congressman who is Chairman Emeritus and a major benefactor of JCU. The New York Gala concluded with the Gala Dinner. It was an eventful night that brought together alumni, Trustees, and supporters of John Cabot University.

All proceeds from the evening support John Cabot University's Annual Fund program. The Annual Fund provides unrestricted assistance that is vital to the success of JCU, allowing the University to utilize resources where they are most needed and can have the biggest impact.