NEW BRUNSWICK – Greater Media was among the recipients honored at the State Theatre Benefit Gala, which raised $574,839 for the not-for-profit performing arts center in New Brunswick.
The April 30 gala recognized corporate honoree Aon Hewitt; patron honorees Joan and Robert Campbell of North Brunswick and Leadership in the Arts honoree Greater Media New Jersey.
Greater Media’s Magic 98.3 FM is the official radio station of the State Theatre.
“Gala is a powerful word. The State Theatre’s 2016 Gala exceeded all expectations. Martin Short brought us to a happy place, and that was followed by wonderful food and conversation and plenty of fun ways to part with a few dollars,” said Dan Henrickson, station manager of Greater Media New Jersey. “But the best part, it made our cherished State Theatre able to march forth with its mission.”
“Joan and I were extremely honored to receive this recognition, especially knowing the outstanding recipients who have preceded us over the years,” Robert Campbell said.
This year’s gala featured a performance by comedian Martin Short, who performed a variety show. In costume as his character Jiminy Glick, Short interviewed New Brunswick Mayor Jim Cahill.
“It was a great mix of entertainment, philanthropy and social engagement, and for such a great cause – supporting the mission of the State Theatre,” State Theatre President and CEO Tom Carto said. “I want to say thank you to the gala committee, board, staff and volunteers who were so key to our accomplishments for this event.”
The State Theatre Benefit Gala 2016 committee included Gala Co-Chair Brent Podlogar of Flemington; Trustee/Gala Co-Chair Susan Podlogar of Flemington; Trustee/Gala Vice-Chair Jacqueline Hancock-Pena of Perth Amboy; Vice Chair/Gala Vice-Chair Scott Fergang of Ramsey; Dee Abedradoh of Kendall Park; Lisa Berlin of Highland Park; Madiha Boraie of Milltown; Cathy Gombas of East Brunswick; Eileen Harkins of New Brunswick; Dan Henrickson of Yardley, Pennsylvania; Trustee Bill Herman of Clifton; David and Carolyn Horn of Skillman; Ernie W. Knewitz of Millburn; Curt Lang of Flemington; Trustee Andrew J. Markey of Basking Ridge; Trustee Richard T. McDonald of Millstone Township; Mary Ellen Morris of Somerset; Karen Needham of Hillsborough; Linda Piscadlo of Somerset; John Reissner of Tinton Falls; Maggie Stavrianidis of Somerset; Trustee Peter Stavrianidis of Somerset; and Jennifer Zimmer of Edison.