On May 1, NAVS welcomed supporters from across the New York City metropolitan area to a special Donor Appreciation Reception at the iconic New York Athletic Club in midtown Manhattan.
Nearly 30 longtime donors and close friends gathered for an inspiring evening of connection and conversation. The event offered a chance to honor the incredible generosity of NAVS’ supporters and learn about the personal stories and shared values that unite us in our mission. Guests enjoyed cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and the camaraderie of like-minded advocates committed to advancing ethical science.
A highlight of the evening was the introduction of NAVS’ new executive director, Sally Draper. In her first public appearance in the role, Sally offered an exciting preview of upcoming strategic initiatives planned for the year ahead and beyond.
We were also honored to be joined by Lunan Liu, a Ph.D. candidate at New York University’s Tandon School of Engineering and current graduate fellow of the International Foundation for Ethical Research (IFER). Liu’s cutting-edge organoids-on-a-chip project is paving the way for safer, more personalized cancer treatments by improving how immunotherapies are tested without the use of animals.
Also in attendance was Elizabeth Novogratz, founder and president of Species Unite, a powerful voice for ending animal exploitation. NAVS is proud to co-sponsor the upcoming documentary film, Bainbridge United, which follows a small Georgia town’s fight to stop the construction of a massive monkey-breeding facility. NAVS will be hosting film watch parties around the country in support of its release later this year.
Events like these remind us how fortunate we are to be surrounded by a national community of passionate, forward-thinking individuals. We’re excited to bring more donor gatherings, educational programs, and special events to communities across America.
