Literacy Partners Raises $1.3 Million

Literacy Partners celebrated the 40th anniversary of its Evening of Readings & Gala Dinner with a festive black-tie gathering at Pier Sixty, Chelsea Piers, raising $1.3 million to support life-changing literacy programs. The annual event brought together New York’s literary, philanthropic, civic, and business leaders for an evening dedicated to the power of reading, education, and opportunity.

Hosted by award-winning journalist Lesley Stahl, the gala continued a tradition first established in 1986 by legendary columnist Liz Smith. Four decades later, the evening remains one of the organization’s signature fundraisers, supporting Literacy Partners’ mission to advance literacy two generations at a time.

That mission focuses on helping adults, parents, and caregivers build the literacy skills and confidence they need to create stronger futures for themselves and the children in their care. Through research-based programs that combine adult literacy, child development, and parenting support, Literacy Partners helps families strengthen early reading, social-emotional growth, and school readiness. The organization’s work is designed to break cycles of poverty, improve job prospects, and close achievement gaps before children even begin school.

One of the evening’s most moving moments came when a Literacy Partners student shared her personal journey. After learning English through the organization, she is now helping other students improve their literacy skills, pursuing a career in healthcare, and watching her children thrive in school.

Her story underscored the organization’s belief that literacy can transform not only one life, but an entire family’s future.

This year’s gala honored four distinguished leaders whose work reflects Literacy Partners’ commitment to education, storytelling, service, and opportunity. Patricia Cornwell, the award-winning author and pioneering figure in contemporary crime fiction, received the Lifetime Achievement Award. Her internationally acclaimed body of work has captivated readers and helped define a genre.

Sabastian Niles, president and chief legal officer of Salesforce, received the Distinguished Leadership in Literacy Award for leadership that reflects the importance of access, equity, and opportunity in building stronger communities. Barbara Tober received the Lizzie Award, named in honor of Liz Smith, recognizing her longtime commitment to culture, philanthropy, and civic engagement. A patron of the arts, publishing maven, and lifelong New Yorker, Tober served as Editor-in-Chief of BRIDES magazine for more than 30 years.

Sherrie Westin, president and CEO of Sesame Workshop, received the Champion of Literacy Award. Her work at the global nonprofit behind Sesame Street reflects a deep commitment to children’s learning, early education, and the lifelong value of literacy.

“This gathering, which celebrated remarkable literacy champions, demonstrated that when we come together, a better future is possible,” said Asaf Bar-Tura, CEO of Literacy Partners. “Literacy is a gateway to social mobility and economic opportunity.”

Notable attendees included 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.

For more information, visit literacypartners.org