Introducing the 2023 Pillars of New York
The League’s annual Pillar of New York Awards allows us to recognize those who have demonstrated remarkable commitment to preserving and celebrating New York’s rich history. This year’s honorees are no different. We hope you will join us in the Rainbow Room on April 18 as we celebrate three remarkable preservationists – Valerie Jo Bradley, John G. Waite Associates, Architects & Arete S. Warren.
Valerie Jo Bradley is co-founder and President of Save Harlem Now! – a nonprofit advocacy group formed to preserve buildings and landscapes reflecting Harlem’s important African American history. Valerie’s interest in Harlem began in 1980, when she purchased and restored an 1898 brownstone townhouse. What began as a real estate venture quickly evolved into her assuming an activist role in promoting and campaigning for the preservation of Harlem’s architectural treasures, cultural history, and economic growth.
John G. Waite Associates, Architects PLLC
If you want to know what a professional commitment to preservation looks like, look no further than to John Waite and the firm of John G. Waite Associates, Architects. With offices in Albany and New York City, Jack—along with Clay Palazzo, Nancy Rankin, Douglas Bucher, Chelle Jenkins, and their team of talented architects and designers—provides expert leadership in the preservation and continued use of some of America’s most significant historic buildings.
Arete S. Warren has put her heart and soul into the Preservation League for decades. She served as Chair of the League’s Board of Trustees from 2009-2012 and continues to be deeply involved in the League’s work to this day. She has served on the Statewide Excellence Awards Jury for three decades, and her steadfast service has helped guide the League to becoming one of the most successful statewide preservation organizations in the nation.
For more than 25 years, the Preservation League of New York State has been honoring corporations and individuals who have taken extraordinary action to protect, preserve, and promote New York’s artistic and architectural heritage. This event is the League’s largest annual fundraiser — supporting the Pillar Awards supports the League’s statewide work all year long.