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The 43rd annual
Frederick Law Olmsted Awards Luncheon,
hosted by the Central Park Conservancy’s
Women’s Committee, drew New York City’s
philanthropic community to a signature
spring celebration supporting Central
Park. Known as the city’s premier
luncheon, the invitation-only event
raised more than $4 million for the care
and maintenance of the Park.
Held annually, the
Luncheon honors major supporters of the
Park. It is the flagship fundraising
event for the Women’s Committee—a
dynamic group of 1,000 members united by
a shared passion for preserving and
enhancing Central Park. Since its
founding in 1983, the Women’s Committee
has raised over $200 million for the
Park’s general operations.
This year’s co-chairs—Ranika
Cohen, Bonnie Comley, Jenna Segal,
and Julia Power Weld—led a
vibrant afternoon with a special tribute
to the late Norma T. Dana. Dana,
remembered for her visionary leadership,
was the last surviving founding member
of the Committee, alongside Jean
Clark, Marguerite Hillman Purnell,
and Phyllis Cerf Wagner.
The 2025 Luncheon also
honored Jenny Price for her
extraordinary contributions to the
Conservancy and enduring commitment to
the
Park’s mission.
Against the lush
backdrop of Central Park’s
Conservatory Garden, guests in
exquisite and creative hats gathered to
celebrate Frederick Law Olmsted's legacy
and the women who continue to uphold his
vision. No wonder this luncheon has been
nicknamed the “Central Park Hat Party!”
The event highlighted the enduring power
of civic engagement and the vital role
private philanthropy plays in stewarding
New York City’s most iconic public
space. |