NYC Bird Alliance Honors Two Bird Champions

Immediate Past President Karen Benfield (left) and current Board President Mike Yuan (right) Photo: Jennifer Gonzeles

On October 1, NYC Bird Alliance hosted the annual Fall Roost, a fundraiser and celebration of respected allies. As a member of the board, Broadway Stages was proud to be among the sponsors of this event that brought conservationists, birders, and community leaders like New York City Council Member Gale Brewer together. They were united in their desire to connect all New Yorkers with biodiversity and inspire conservation action.

Fall Roost guests Divya Anantharaman, Martha Harbison, and Roberta Kravette Photo: Jennifer Gonzeles

It was a glamorous evening at Tavern on the Green. Attendees met with old friends and new acquaintances while tasting the hors d'oeuvres, dim sum, and artisanal sliders. They enjoyed champagne and specialty cocktails provided by El Buho Mezcal to wash it down.

Lucienne and Claude Bloch, "Impact in Birding" Award Recipient at the 2024 Fall Roost. Photo Jennifer Gonzeles

At the heart of the evening was the recognition of two valued Alliance friends. Karen Benfield was thanked for her visionary leadership as past board president from 2020 to 2024. Current Board President Mike Yuan spoke of his gratitude for Benfield’s guidance of the Alliance through challenging times and positioning it for future success.

Dr. Claude Bloch was also honored with the “Impact in Birding” award. Executive Director Jessica Wilson thanked Dr. Bloch for his more than 35 years of commitment and support of the Alliance's mission and programs, including the organization's annual winter lecture series.

The evening also raised funds to protect birds and engage all New Yorkers. Proceeds from the 2024 Fall Roost provide critical operating funds to support the Alliance's mission to protect wild birds and their habitat across the City's five boroughs, improving the quality of life for all New Yorkers. If you didn't get the chance to support the 2024 Fall Roost, it's not too late! You can donate online by clicking here or contact Matthew Coody at mcoody@nycbirdalliance.org or 646.502.9611 to contribute in another way.

Broadway Stages is proud to be an advocate for the NYC Bird Alliance. We encourage you to participate in one of the NYC Bird Alliance's many activities. You can also learn more about the Alliance, its mission, and its events by following them online on Instagram and Facebook. Fall in New York City is a great time and place to appreciate migratory birds!