The New York Junior League Celebrates 125 Years Of Impact At 74th Annual Winter Ball

On February 28, the New York Junior League celebrated the 74th Annual Winter Ball: A Gilded Legacy: Celebrating 125 Years of Impact, one of New York City’s most anticipated black-tie events, held at Cipriani South Street. The sold-out event raised $1 million, setting a new fundraising record in the Winter Ball’s 74-year history.

Serving as the centerpiece of a year-long 125th anniversary celebration, the “Gilded Legacy” theme paid tribute to the organization’s 1901 founding by Mary Harriman and honored its enduring commitment to advancing women’s leadership and strengthening New York City communities.

What began with Harriman’s belief that women could be a powerful force for good has grown into a global movement of nearly 300 Junior League organizations across the United States and abroad.

NYJL President Jeri Powell recognized the evening’s Legacy Award Honoree, Valerie S. Mason. Attorney, executive, and board leader, Mason currently serves as Chair of Lender Finance practice group at Otterbourg P.C. and the Chair of Manhattan Community Board 8.

The night’s program included a powerful reflection on the NYJL’s 125 years of civic impact and its continued vision for empowering the next generation of women leaders. Proceeds from the event directly support the NYJL’s community partnerships, advocacy initiatives, and volunteer training programs.