YPIE Celebrates the Power of Education at 18th Annual Gala

From L to R: Arbor Rising Co-Founder Sammy Politziner, YPIE Alumna Alicia, YPIE Board Chair Ellen Cutler-Levy, YPIE CEO Sam Wallis, YPIE Board Chair Emeritus David Westin

This year’s YPIE Gala was an unforgettable evening celebrating students on the path to success in college and beyond. 

We honored YPIE Board Chair Ellen Cutler Levy, who inspired our guests by highlighting principles that have guided YPIE for 18 years and created lasting, meaningful impact on students.

“It’s tempting to want to topple entire systems, especially these days. But what I’ve learned at YPIE is that deliberate action can be just as powerful…small steps, done consistently, can grow into real impact.” said Ellen Cutler Levy, YPIE Board Chair

Alicia, one of Ellen’s mentees, spoke about the impact Ellen has had on her journey. “Ellen’s care, combined with my family’s support and my own personal drive, helped create the person I am today. After Yonkers High School, I graduated summa cum laude from Binghamton University, and I’m proud to say that I am the first generation in my immediate family to follow the path of a lawyer.” 

We also recognized Arbor Rising for their transformational partnership that has deepened YPIE’s impact and helped us expand to new communities.

“Over our 15 year history, we’ve looked at over 2,000 early-stage nonprofits (mostly in the New York area), and we’ve funded only 45…even among a group of incredible organizations and incredible leaders, YPIE is a standout.” said Sammy Politziner, Arbor Rising Co-Founder

YPIE Board Member and Alumna Charlyn Brea thanked outgoing Board Chair David Westin, "David, on behalf of the entire YPIE Board of Directors, and from me, a deeply appreciative alum of YPIE, thank you for your visionary leadership and your unwavering commitment to our mission. You have elevated YPIE’s impact throughout your tenure.”

The evening was a celebration of community, connections, and the power of education to ensure young people have bright futures.  

A performance by The Current capped off this event, which was held at Sarah Lawrence College with catering by Zuppa Restaurant.

Our thanks to New York Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins, New York State Senator Shelley Mayer, Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano, and the many other elected officials, volunteers, school district leaders, and friends who joined this celebration.  

See highlights in our Gala 2025 Digital Journal and Photo Album.

Thanks to all of you in the YPIE community for standing with YPIE students as they pursue their dreams.