Last night (Thursday) Celtic FC Foundation hosted its annual New York Gala Dinner in Manhattan and once again, it was a tremendous success, as an astonishing net total in excess of $400K was raised. The Gala, which was sponsored by DXC Technology and Qrypt, returned to the stunning Cipriani 25 Broadway for the third consecutive year and was attended by around 365 guests, including businesses, individuals and representatives from a host of Celtic Supporters’ Clubs from across North America. Hosted by Hugo Straney, the evening kicked off with a Celtic FC Foundation welcome and vote of thanks from Foundatin Chief Executive, Tony Hamilton. This was then followed by an outstanding performance of ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’ by Celtic supporter, acclaimed Tenor and star of the Metropolitan Opera, Barry Banks, who was accompanied by Liam McGrandles. Next up to say a few words on behalf of the Gala Committee was Connie Boville, a Scot based in New York and Co-Chair of the Committee with her husband Howard. Together with the other members, Connie and Howard have worked tirelessly to deliver a successful event for the Foundation, and it wouldn’t have been possible without their efforts. Following dinner, Barry Banks returned with a sensational performance of opera classic ‘La donna è mobile’, before Hugo was joined on stage by our special sporting guest, Chris Sutton. Chris regaled guests with stories of his career, particularly highlighting how important his time at Celtic was to him and his family. After Pat Tully hosted the Live Auction and Pledge Drive in his own inimitable style, it was time to welcome the wonderful Heather Small, lead vocalist of 90s dance group, M People. Heather wowed guests with a sensational live set including ‘Moving On Up’, ‘One Night in Heaven’ and ‘Search for the Hero’, before closing with her iconic anthem ‘Proud’, which was accompanied by Foundation project delivery video footage. The formal proceedings were rounded off, as they always are for the Foundation in New York, with a live set from the one and only Liam McGrandles. Funds raised at the Gala will allow the Foundation to continue its work in the city for another year, as well as supporting existing project delivery in Glasgow and in Ireland, to assist vulnerable children, young people and adults. This will include our partnership initiatives with Children’s Aid and Coalition for the Homeless in New York, Paradise Pit Stop in Glasgow and Community Games in Ireland. Gala Committee Chairs, Connie and Howard Boville said: “It’s been an absolute honour for us as a family to take on the mantle from the outstanding Paul Geaney and Chair the Committee this year. Our fellow members have displayed exceptional passion and dedication and we are incredibly grateful for their efforts. “It has been a privilege to work hand in hand with the team at the Foundation to deliver this wonderful event. The net fundraising total in excess of $400K is utterly magnificent, humbling and overwhelming. The generosity and compassion demonstrated by every single individual and organisation who attended the Gala, together with those who donated prizes or gifts, is what made this night so special. “The subsequent impact on the Foundation’s delivery in all three locations and, in turn, those vulnerable children, young people and adults they support cannot be underestimated. “We would also like to extend our gratitude to Chris, Heather, Barry, Liam, Pat and Hugo for each playing such a key role and for helping to make it a night to remember. “We look forward to many more to come.” Celtic FC Foundation Chief Executive, Tony Hamilton, commented: “Once again, the Gala Dinner Committee – brilliantly led by Connie and Howard – have done a remarkable job and we would not be doing this without that group’s hard work. We are so grateful for their support. “The response from a host of individuals and organisations across the board who bought tables or places has been wonderful, and I was also delighted to see members of so many Celtic Supporters’ Clubs in attendance. “Last but not least, I offer thanks to our sponsors DXC Technology and Qrypt and to every single person who played a part in a breath-taking night.” Michael Nicholson, Celtic’s Chief Executive and Foundation Trustee, added: “Everyone at the Club is incredibly grateful to those involved in making this year’s New York Gala such a success. It was a wonderful evening in the best of company, celebrating all that is special and unique about our club, through the work of Celtic FC Foundation. ‘The incredible sum raised will make a significant difference to the vital work of the Foundation in the USA, in Glasgow and in Ireland.’ “I would like to thank Connie and Howard Boville and their fellow Committee members for being the driving force behind an outstanding 2025 New York Gala. It’s fantastic that the date for 2026 is already in the calendar (Thursday, March 26) and I have every faith that, yet again, it will build on the huge success achieved in this and previous years.” We would like to thank Connie and Howard Boville and our Committee, DXC Technology and Qrypt, Heather Small, Barry Banks, Liam McGrandles, Pat Tully, Hugo Straney, those who donated prizes for the auctions, Martingale Cognac for a complimentary bottle on each table, every table and ticket holder and our local Celtic Supporters’ Clubs. Please don’t ever underestimate the difference you have made.
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