More than 500 guests filled a magically lit room in Sarah Lawrence College’s new Barbara Walters Campus Center to help make the dream of college a reality for thousands of Yonkers students. We were proud to honor Wendy Nadel, our Founding Executive Director, and Sound Associates, Inc.

“It’s only fitting that we’re here on a college campus to honor Wendy Nadel and Sound Associates who have made college a reality for so many Yonkers students,” said Samuel Wallis, Executive Director, YPIE. “People in this room are here to hold open the doors for those who come up behind them. People in this room want to make space for students, many of whom they’ll never meet, to be able to achieve their dreams.”

“When I look back on these past 12 years, there is so much to reflect on,” said Wendy Nadel, “But ultimately, I am most proud of the genuine goodness that an organization that was a mere idea 12 years ago has been able to radiate into the world.”

Frances, a YPIE alumna and Emory graduate, shared the tremendous impact Wendy had on her journey to and through college: “Wendy, I am forever grateful to you and your family for making my dreams a reality. Thank you for being my trusted mentor and friend.”

YPIE announced the establishment of the Wendy R. Nadel Volunteer Legacy Award, sponsored by the Cross County Shopping Center, a way to recognize their deeply committed volunteers for years to come.

Yonkers School District leaders, Community officials, and YPIE Student Ambassadors joined to celebrate this special evening.

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See photos in this album (Photos by Toby McAfee Photography)

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See our Gala 2019 Digital Journal.

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