250th Anniversary Launches with Members and Friends
On Friday 31st of January, St. George’s Society held its 250th Annual General Meeting at Hearst Tower followed by a cocktail reception to launch the Society’s 250th Anniversary.
During the AGM, Executive leadership and Committee heads reported on the Society’s programming and activities during 2019 as well as plans for this year and beyond.
Outgoing President, Philip Warner OBE opening the Society’s 250th Annual General Meeting
In his opening remarks, outgoing President, Philip Warner OBE, highlighted the increase of volunteerism amongst the St. George’s Society community and expressed how valuable this engagement is to the ongoing functioning of the Society. Longtime member, Mark Aiston, was commended for his assistance of The Weatherstone Families Support Fund by welcoming and transporting families from the airport when they arrive in NYC. In recognition of Mark’s volunteerism, he was presented with a letter of appreciation from the Society’s Patron, HRH The Duke of Gloucester.
Executive Director, Anna Titley shared highlights from the previous year:
The Society hosted and co-sponsored 44 events raising nearly $700,000 for our charitable programs.
At the 2019 English Ball, BP America announced they would seed the Pathways Corporate Partners Program with a multi-year commitment to fund scholarships.
Members found a variety of ways to raise money for the Society in 2019 including marathons, half marathons, bake sales, bingo nights and brunch.
Following the election of the incoming Board of Directors, newly elected President, Frank E. Morgan II closed the meeting with an appeal to members urging them to consider how they might contribute to St. George’s Society during the 250th anniversary. Learn more about the 250th Anniversary Appeal HERE.
“Whether it’s making a financial gift or recruiting 10 new members, you can make a difference and guarantee a brighter future for the Society and the communities we serve.”
Following the AGM, British Consul General in New York, Antony Phillipson and BritishAmerican Business CEO, Duncan Edwards hosted a reception for over 300 members and friends to commemorate the Society’s 250 anniversary.
During their remarks, both Antony and Duncan commented on the Society’s remarkable longevity and charitable legacy.
“It’s incredible to think an organization can reach 250 years. What an achievement—particularly when it’s in a country that’s only 244 years old. ”
“When it comes to longevity, it’s pretty hard to beat St. George’s Society. They are an invaluable focal point for Brits in New York and have been for centuries. And St. George’s charitable record is also one rooted in humanity and generosity. ”
During the evening, winners of the Tombola for 250 prize draw were announced. The Tombola featured four luxury vacation packages and raised almost $16,000 for the Society’s charitable programs. Many thanks to all who entered.
We would like to acknowledge and thank Hearst and Diageo for their support of the reception as well as the very generous Tombola for 250 donors: American Airlines, Kasia Bannon, Cunard, The Dorchester Collection, FROSCH, Gleneagles, The Maybourne Hotel Group, The Savoy Hotel, Trump Turnberry, and Westminster Abbey.
View more photos from the evening HERE.