2nd Annual Rush HeARTS Education Luncheon is fast approaching... - Rush Philanthropic Arts Foundation Rush Philanthropic Arts Foundation

2nd Annual Rush HeARTS Education Luncheon is fast approaching…

…And we have soo many amazing memories of last years, we are sure this February 14th, 2012 is going to be just as memorable as the first. Take a look at last years highlights.

Rush welcomed Anheuser-Busch as Rush HeARTS Education True Love Sponsor, and JP Morgan Chase and Sun Capital Partners, Inc. as Cupid’s Arrow Sponsors. The beautiful Grand Ballroom of the iconic Plaza Hotel provided the backdrop of Rush HeARTS Education luncheon

Rush Philanthropic Arts Foundation board member Brenda D. Neal was Event Chair

CNN journalist Soledad O’Brien was the afternoon’s host.

Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg joined us, on his birthday, and provided the afternoon’s opening remarks.

Kelly Rutherford provided our guests with a keynote speech.

Rush Kids and Rush Teaching Artists were also in attendance to celebrate their achievements with those who came to support Rush Philanthropic.

Star Jones led the Rush Kids Auction where Rush HeARTS Education luncheon guests pledged $1000 to sponsor a child for a year of Rush Education programming. 134 kids were sponsored with pledges from many notable guests such as Wyclef Jean, Stewart Rahr, Kelly Rutherford, Soledad O’Brien, Petra Nemcova, Elaine Erwin and Russell Simmons himself, to name a few.

Celebrities and executives in the business, fashion, music & entertainment industries also added to the excitement of Rush HeARTS Education luncheon. Guests included: Carol Alt, Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg, Lauren Bush (fashion designer, FEED Projects), Elaine Erwin, Andre Harrell, Wyclef Jean, Star Jones, Petra Nemcova, Soledad O’Brien, Dr. Steve Perry, Stewart Rahr (Kinray Pharmaceuticals), Kelly Rutherford (Gossip Girl), Joseph “Rev. Run” and Justine Simmons, then-Deputy Mayor, NYC Schools Chanellor Dennis Walcott, and renowned artist Kehinde Wiley.

Rush HeARTS Education luncheon received unprecedented press, including event coverage by The New York Observer, Town & Country, New York Magazine, and Flavorpill. With the ongoing generous support of our sponsors, patrons and friends, Rush Philanthropic Arts Foundation will continue to provide art education opportunities for even more youth and enrich the cultural landscape of our city.