Early Bird pricing ends August 31 — reserve your seat before prices increase.
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Thursday, October 1, 2026 · 6:00–9:30 PM
“Stay Focused”
Our inaugural signature reception brings together Brooklyn’s leaders, educators, advocates and supporters for an elegant evening at Fandi Mata in Williamsburg — nationally recognized comedy, live music, five distinguished honorees and a shared commitment to what comes next.
Your attendance helps expand STEM, robotics and educational opportunities for under-resourced students.
Fandi Mata · 74 Bayard Street · Williamsburg, Brooklyn
Featured Entertainment
An evening of nationally recognized comedy and live music — with every ticket supporting classrooms across Brooklyn.
Josh Johnson
Featured Comedy • The Daily Show • HBO Max • Netflix
Beyond The Daily Show he released his HBO Max special Symphony this spring and recently joined Michelle Obama and Craig Robinson on IMO.
Simeon Goodson
Host & Comedian • The Comedy Cellar • HBO Max
A Brooklyn comedian rooted in Clinton Hill and Fort Greene who has performed at several of Val’s events over the years.
Tyrone Benjamin
Live Saxophone
Live saxophone sets the tone from the moment guests arrive — the soundtrack for cocktails and conversation.
Honoring a Legacy. Inspiring the Future.
Five leaders and institutions whose service, scholarship and stewardship have shaped Brooklyn.
Former Congressman Edolphus “Ed” Towns
Public Service & Advocacy
Nancy Ramos
Honored Posthumously
Dr. DeCosta Headley, Sr.
Education & Leadership
P.S. 375 — The Jackie Robinson School
Student Achievement
Local Development Corporation of Crown Heights
Community Impact
For Businesses & Community
Become a Sponsor
Put your organization in front of community leaders, educators, elected officials and advocates while directly funding STEM education for students who need it most. Sponsorships begin at $2,500 and include recognition at the reception and within our commemorative journal.
Become a SponsorPurchase a Journal Ad
Congratulate an honoree, celebrate a loved one or promote your business in the keepsake of the evening. Journal ads start at $50 and are open to businesses, families, organizations and alumni alike.
Purchase a Journal AdWe honor Val A. Henry’s lifelong commitment to education and community by providing essential school supplies & equipment to students in need. Through this fund, we aim to inspire hope and opportunity for the next generation. [Learn More…]
Your donation will help us launch scholarships and provide school supplies for students in need.
The Val A. Henry Legacy Scholarship Fund was created to uplift students and strengthen our community through education. Inspired by Val’s lifelong commitment to service, we provide financial support and essential school resources to help the next generation succeed.
Every gift honors Val’s life and helps a student succeed. Your donation makes an immediate impact in providing scholarships and school supplies.
Honoree spotlights, performer previews, student impact stories and event updates — first, on social.
