Thanks to all who attended VOICES Annual Always Remember Gala!
The theme for this year's gala was "Building Bridges." An anonymous quotation says,
"Everyone is given stones. But what do we build? Is it a wall or a bridge?" This year we were honored to have several special guests - extraordinary individuals whose leadership and collective efforts in their respective fields have inspired those who have had the privilege of knowing them.
Norah O'Donnell, Co-Host of CBS This Morning, moderated a conversation with Governor Thomas H. Kean, Chairman of the 9/11 Commission, and Senator Joseph Lieberman, former Chairman of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee. For over a decade, these remarkable statesmen have worked tirelessly to ensure implementation of sweeping intelligence reforms to make our country safer. The discussion focused on the recommendations of the 9/11 Commission Report, work that remains to be done, and the new and emerging threats that have developed.
Jeff Fager, Chairman of CBS News, was honored with the 2014 VOICES Building Bridges Award. Jeff's leadership and unwavering commitment in guiding the CBS news coverage of 9/11 and its aftermath truly demonstrate his dedication to keeping us all well informed and prepared. His passion for his work and commitment to staying focused on the current threat was apparent in his very moving remarks. "9/11 stands as the most significant symbol of the necessity of robust news organizations dedicated to covering important stories," he noted. "It is not just our job; it is our responsibility to pour our resources into original reporting all over the world- gathering information that contributes to preventing that kind of terror and tragedy from ever happening again."
It was also heartwarming to recognize two former staff members, Debbie Westfal and Madeline Pace, with VOICES inaugural Humanitarian Award for their years of dedication and service.
As in years past, we appreciated the update on the 9/11 Museum from Joe Daniels and Alice Greenwald.
A special thanks to our gala co-chairs Bonnie McEneaney and Deb McEneaney, and to all of our sponsors and guests. Your support ensures we will Always Remember!
