On a perfect spring evening, Houstonians decked out in their finest cocktail attire descended upon the Molly Ann Smith Plaza at Hermann Park. The occasion? The highly-anticipated Evening in the Park gala. Held on April 28, 2023, this year’s 20th anniversary gala set a new record by raising over $1 million for the care and improvement of Hermann Park.
The event was a delightful mixture of elegance and excitement. Guests boarded the Hermann Park Railroad, embarking on a journey through the park to the gala tent and enjoyed cocktail hour under strings of twinkling lights at the Pioneer Memorial Obelisk. There was plenty of mingling, savoring mouth-watering hors d’oeuvres, and toasting with glasses of wine! The Hermann Park supporters truly enjoyed the festive atmosphere.
This year’s gala was particularly special, as it honored Hermann Park Conservancy’s president, Doreen Stoller, for her 20 years of dedicated service. The co-chairs, Y. Ping Sun and David Leebron, and Phoebe and Bobby Tudor, worked tirelessly to recognize Stoller’s invaluable contributions to Hermann Park. Her vision, leadership, and commitment have transformed the park into the vibrant, beloved green space it is today. The crowd raised their glasses to celebrate the Play Your Park Campaign’s milestone of raising over $52 million.
As the gala progressed, Kristy Bradshaw, the board chair of Hermann Park Conservancy, addressed the crowd. Her words of admiration for the Conservancy’s day-to-day care of Hermann Park and their ongoing Play Your Park campaign resonated deeply. Bradshaw shared insights into the upcoming projects including the McWilliams Dog Park and the Commons. Her words ignited a sense of excitement and anticipation for what’s to come.
The moment of the evening: the $1 million goal was met, and a record was set for the Conservancy’s annual fundraiser! Stoller took the stage, surrounded by confetti, expressing her gratitude for the past 20 years. Stoller’s speech was both touching and humorous, reflecting on her long-held determination to transform the park, including the removal of the infamous “Mt. MacGregor”.
Joe and Cathy Cleary, Anne Carl, Alicia Smith
Hallie Vanderhider, Bobby Dees
I look forward to the 2024 Evening in the Park, as this gala is a celebration of community, commitment, and the continual care for Hermann Park. A huge thanks to all the generous donors and special contributors for their unwavering support. After all, Hermann Park is not just a park; it’s a testament to the power of community and Houston’s love for green spaces.
For more information about Hermann Park Conservancy and how you can support, visit hermannpark.org.