Wednesday, May 21, 2025
Thank you to everyone that joined us and donated to Jazz Power Celebration21!
JAZZ POWER CELEBRATION21
Presented by TD Bank, Harlem Community Development Corporation and The Rothman Family Foundation
What a night! Celebration21 was truly something special — filled with unforgettable performances, powerful moments, and the energy only jazz can bring.
Incredible people and institutions who continue to shape and inspire our community were honored and recognized. The room was alive with joy, connection, and the spirit of jazz — thanks to you.
We’re deeply grateful to our sponsors, partners, and the incredible team who made it all happen.
HONOREES
The Miranda Family Philanthropy Award – Myrna Sameth
This year, JPI presented the Miranda Family Philanthropy Award to Myrna Sameth, in recognition of her multi-decade commitment to philanthropy, community activism, and advocacy for education, the arts, and social justice. Ms. Sameth is a dedicated community leader, serving as a board member of the Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley, where she plays a role in advancing education, arts, and social initiatives across the region. A passionate advocate for literacy and lifelong learning, she has been actively involved with the Saugerties Public Library, supporting programs that foster community engagement. Sameth also served on the Board of Governors for Reconstructing Judaism, contributing to the growth of progressive Jewish communities. She is an active member of the Woodstock Jewish Congregation.
Ms. Sameth has been a committed supporter of the Jazz Power Initiative for the past 13 years, helping us transform lives through jazz arts education and performance. Her leadership and generosity continue to enrich the Hudson Valley and beyond.
2025 JPI Changemaker Award – Harlem Community Development Corporation
JPI honored Harlem Community Development Corporation (“HCDC”) with the JPI Changemaker Award, in recognition of their leadership in advancing the arts and strengthening community life in Northern Manhattan. HCDC was created in 1995 to serve the greater Harlem community, including Central Harlem, El Barrio/East Harlem, Washington Heights and West Harlem. It supersedes the Harlem Urban Development Corporation (HUDC) that existed from 1971 to 1995. Through various partnerships, HCDC plans and facilitates a wide range of community revitalization initiatives, strengthening upper Manhattan and its economically and culturally vibrant communities.
The Award will be accepted by HCDC’s President, Mr. Curtis Archer. Since January 2006, Curtis Archer has served as President of the Harlem Community Development Corporation. He sees his role as essential in enhancing the economic climate for both businesses and residents in the Greater Harlem community.
The Rothman Family Syncopated Partnership Award – Medical Center Neighborhood Fund
In recognition of their leadership in corporate partnership that strengthens community, uplifts youth, and champions equity through music and the arts, JPI honored the Medical Center Neighborhood Fund with the inaugural Rothman Family Syncopated Partnership Award. Since 1987, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York-Presbyterian, and the New York State Psychiatric Institute have partnered with Washington Heights and Inwood neighbors through the Medical Center Neighborhood Fund (MCNF). This employee-led initiative supports local nonprofits that deliver essential services and programs to the Northern Manhattan community.
The MCNF is managed by dedicated staff volunteers who review grant applications and conduct annual site visits, fostering a stronger connection between our institutions and local partners.
The Award was accepted by Vice President for Community Affairs & Partnership Engagement at Columbia University Irving Medical Center, Sandra Harris. In her role, she is responsible for maintaining community and institutional relations, developing partnerships and promoting university and community programs that impact the health and well-being of the northern Manhattan community, including the Medical Center Neighborhood Fund.
HOST: CATHERINE RUSSELL
Vocalist Catherine Russell is a native New Yorker, born into musical royalty. Her father, the late Luis Russell, was a legendary pianist / composer / bandleader, and Louis Armstrong’s long-time musical director. Her mother, the late Carline Ray, was a pioneering vocalist / guitarist / bassist who performed with International Sweethearts of Rhythm, Mary Lou Williams, and Sy Oliver. Catherine’s professional life began early. After graduating with honors from the American Academy of Dramatic Arts, she toured and recorded with Carrie Smith, Steely Dan, David Bowie, Cyndi Lauper, Paul Simon, Jackson Browne, Michael Feinstein, Levon Helm, Toshi Reagon and Rosanne Cash, among others, appearing on over 200 albums.
