On April 7, 2025, the Hotel Association of New York City Foundation (HANYC Foundation) hosted its annual Red Carpet Hospitality Gala at the JW Marriott Essex House in Manhattan. The evening brought together leaders from the hotel, tourism, Broadway, and public safety sectors to celebrate excellence in hospitality and unveil a refined mission focused on addressing New York City’s pressing challenges.
The gala marked a significant shift in the Foundation’s focus, announcing new initiatives targeting public safety, sanitation, and immigration. In partnership with the NYPD, HANYC Foundation launched two key programs: expanding the NYC Police Foundation’s Crime Stoppers Hotline to combat human trafficking and integrating participating hotels’ security cameras into the NYPD’s Lower Manhattan Security Initiative.
The event honored industry leaders for their contributions: Susan L. Birnbaum, President & CEO of the NYC Police Foundation, received the inaugural Champion of Public Safety Award; Lindsey Ueberroth, CEO of Preferred Travel Group, was honored with the Hospitality Award; and Frank DiLella, Emmy Award-winning journalist and host of “On Stage” on Spectrum News NY1, received the Broadway Award.
A highlight of the evening was a special performance by BOOP! The Musical, adding a touch of Broadway flair to the gala.
Co-chaired by Vijay Dandapani, President & CEO of the Hotel Association of New York City; Heather Davis, Chair of the HANYC Foundation; and Shane Cookman, Acting Chair of the Association, the gala underscored the Foundation’s commitment to enhancing New York City’s hospitality landscape through strategic partnerships and community-focused initiatives.
Proceeds from the gala will support the HANYC Foundation’s charitable programs across the city, reinforcing its role as a catalyst for positive change in New York’s hospitality industry.
