The Central Park Conservancy’s Playground Partners kicked off their 2025 fundraising with their annual Winter Luncheon. Playground Partners, a program of the Women’s Committee of the Central Park Conservancy, is dedicated to raising funds to maintain the quality and cleanliness of Central Park's 21 playgrounds. The sold-out event, generously supported by Presenting Sponsor Harry Winston, Inc., Premier Sponsor Jimmy Choo, and Prime Sponsor Orveda, raised $400,000 for the beloved play spaces.
Joined by special guest Tina Fey, in conversation with Jenna Bush Hager, attendees were treated to an engaging and funny conversation about navigating motherhood and raising children in New York City, with Central Park’s playgrounds as the “backdrop to their childhood,” as Tina put it. They each shared their fond memories of Central Park and its importance to life in the City – a place to play, relax, and, in the case of Tina Fey, even brainstorm on walks with Lorne Michaels.
Women’s Committee President, Tracey Huff, alongside Playground Partners Chairs, Kate Lauprete and Stephanie X. Stamas, Vice Chair, Melanie McLennan, and Luncheon Co-Chairs Caroline Bouckaert, Dustee Jenkins, Meghan Klopp, Whitney Mogavero, Kate Bouquard, Gage Boulud, Ainsley Earhardt, Paola Fendi, Jocelyn Gailliot, Gillian Hearst, Elizabeth Kurpis, Joyce Kwok, Sherry Lee, Gillian Miniter, Margo M. Nederlander, Sandra Ripert, Barbara H.Scott, Megan Stackhouse, Kathleen Tait, Sarah Wetenhall, and Gigi Stone Woods.
“The work of the Women’s Committee and Playground Partners is at the heart of the Central Park Conservancy’s critical mission to keep the Park accessible and enjoyable for all,” said Tracey Huff, Women’s Committee President. “Central Park’s 21 playgrounds are essential, sacred green spaces for families, and the funds raised today will help the Conservancy keep them maintained and cared for throughout the year.”
“The Central Park Conservancy is so grateful for such spirited support of Central Park’s playgrounds, championed by the Women’s Committee and its Playground Partners,” said Betsy Smith, President & CEO, Central Park Conservancy. “The dedication of the Playground Partners ensures these recreational spaces for creativity and play are preserved and maintained as sanctuaries for all families and New Yorkers.”
The Mandarin Oriental Hotel’s grand views of Central Park’s wintery landscapes provided a picturesque backdrop to the afternoon’s spirited festivities in its honor.
Image credit: Sean Zanni/PMC/Getty Images
