Ember Gala 2023

Grand Hall at St. Mary’s Church
440 Grand Street
New York NY 10002

About The Gala:

Join us in Lower Manhattan at the Grand Hall for our Annual Gala! This is our first GALA since the pandemic! You're cordially invited to join us for a night of glamour, glitz, and giving! Our annual fundraising gala is just around the corner, and we can't wait to share this unforgettable evening with you.

This year's gala is more than just a chance to dress up and dance the night away - it's an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of those who need it most. By attending our event, you'll be supporting our mission to extend the role of art beyond that of its own intrinsic value, leveraging it to bring visibility and expansive thinking to issues of human significance. 

Our glamorous venue will be transformed into a world of wonder, complete with delicious cuisine, top-notch entertainment, and exclusive auction items that you won't find anywhere else. You'll be rubbing elbows with community leaders, philanthropists, and others who share your passion for making a positive impact on the world.

So put on your finest attire and join us for an evening of philanthropy and fun. Tickets are limited, so reserve your spot today!


About Impact Award Recipient Richard Seeger

Richard is our wonderful treasurer and a member of the Ember Board of Directors. Originally from Saline, Michigan, Richard attended the University of Michigan School of Music and was a proud member of the Marching Band program. Despite his love for music, he decided to pursue a career in accounting and earned a Bachelor's Degree from Cleary College.

After graduation, Richard moved to New York City where he landed several short-term accounting positions before being hired full-time by American Standard Inc. in 1972. Throughout his career, he worked in the corporate tax department and eventually managed the payroll tax group for 25,000 employees and 7,000 retirees. Richard retired in 2005, having made a significant impact in his field.

In retirement, Richard developed a passion for thoroughbred horses and has enjoyed traveling with a group of friends to visit stud farms and attend races at Saratoga Springs NY, Belmont Park, NY, and even the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs in 2007.

Richard has also been an active member of his local Episcopal Church for over 30 years, serving as an officer and singing in the Parish Choir. In 2012, he was invited by Ember member and Chair Emeritus, Gordon King, to attend the annual meeting of Schola Cantorum on Hudson. Soon after, Richard was elected to the Board and appointed Treasurer, bringing his wealth of financial expertise to the organization.

Currently residing in Greenwich Village, Richard still makes time to visit his hometown of Saline a couple of times a year to spend time with his brother David, sister Janice, and their families.