Benjamin Franklin Society Celebrates 70 Years at New York Reception

Penn's leadership donors unite to celebrate annual giving’s transformative impact

Published: March 21, 2025
Writer: Christopher Knoecklein | Photographer: Ben Asen
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Members of the Benjamin Franklin Society (BFS) gathered in New York City on March 3, 2025 to celebrate the impact of leadership annual giving and commemorate the Society’s 70th anniversary during a special reception at The New York Historical.

Kate O’Hern Lyons, C’86, University Trustee and BFS member, welcomed fellow members and their guests and thanked them for their support. “Annual giving isn’t just a tradition. It’s truly the beating heart of the University. It’s what fuels our ambitions, propels our students’ dreams, and truly transforms our campus into a hub of innovation and growth,” she said before introducing the night’s guest speaker, President J. Larry Jameson, MD, PhD.

J. Larry Jameson, MD, PhD, delivers a speech at the Benjamin Franklin Society Spring Reception, emphasizing the impact of leadership annual giving at Penn.
Penn President J. Larry Jameson, MD, PhD, shares insights on the university’s latest initiatives and the role of annual giving at the BFS New York Reception.

In his stirring remarks, President Jameson emphasized the decisive impact that leadership annual giving has for Penn’s initiatives, including data science, medical research, the arts, and student support. “There’s a lot to be inspired by and proud about at the University of Pennsylvania,” he said. “I want you to be ambassadors for Penn and spread the word on what’s happening here.”

A crowd of Benjamin Franklin Society members listens attentively as J. Larry Jameson speaks at the Spring Reception in the New York Historical.

A full audience at the BFS New York Reception listens intently as President Jameson highlights the power of philanthropy.

Four attendees, including Penn President J. Larry Jameson, smile for a group photo at the BFS 70th anniversary celebration in New York City.

President Jameson and BFS members celebrate 70 years of leadership annual giving at the Society’s New York Reception.

Three Benjamin Franklin Society members smile for a group photo at the Spring Reception, celebrating 70 years of leadership annual giving.

Kate O’Hern Lyons, C’86, University Trustee and BFS member (pictured at left), catches up with friends at the BFS New York Reception.

Attendees at the BFS 70th Anniversary event enjoy an evening of networking and conversation at the New York Historical.

BFS members raise a glass to the Society’s impact and the future of giving at Penn.

BFS attendees smile for a group photo at the 70th Anniversary Spring Reception, surrounded by Penn-themed banners and fellow guests.

Penn supporters come together at the BFS New York Reception, highlighting the power of annual giving.

Two Benjamin Franklin Society members engage in conversation at the Spring Reception, standing in an elegantly lit venue.

Two Benjamin Franklin Society members reconnect at the BFS New York Reception.

Four Benjamin Franklin Society members pose for a group photo at the Spring Reception, enjoying the evening’s networking and celebration.

Members of the Benjamin Franklin Society enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the BFS New York Reception.

Five Benjamin Franklin Society members pose for a group photo at the Spring Reception, smiling as they celebrate 70 years of leadership annual giving.

Five BFS members share a laugh while celebrating leadership annual giving at the Society’s New York Reception.

In addition to the lively conversation, members had the opportunity to explore some of The New York Historical’s beautiful exhibitions that tell the stories of New York, including Our Composite Nation and Pets in the City. Photographs from the reception at The New York Historical can be seen in the BFS photo album and on the @PennBFS Instagram page.

Learn more about the Benjamin Franklin Society