Annual Gala 2009

The French-American Foundation was pleased to have honored Mr. Carlos Ghosn, chairman and CEO of the Renault Nissan Alliance, and Ambassador Arthur A. Hartman, former United States ambassador to France and the Soviet Union, at its gala dinner held on November 19, 2009 in New York City. The event was held at Capitale, a landmark structure designed by architect Stanford White. Over 350 guests joined the foundation in celebrating its honorees’ contributions to the French-American relationship and enjoying an evening together in support of its work.

Kate Snow, the anchor of the weekend edition of Good Morning America served as the master of ceremonies throughout the evening, introducing speakers such as:

-       Claude Grunitzky, Founder and Chairman, True Agency; TRACE Magazine; Young Leader

-        Roy J. Katzovicz, chief legal officer, Pershing Square Capital Management, LP; Young Leader

-        James G. Lowenstein, former United States ambassador to Luxembourg

-        John Paulson, president and portfolio manager, Paulson & Company, Inc.

-        Antoine G. Treuille, president of the French-American Foundation

-        Ambassador Pierre Vimont, French ambassador to the United States

The French-American Foundation conducted a silent auction with exceptional items contributed by F.P. Journe, AREVA, Accor, Michel Cluizel, Mauboussin, Odile de Schiétère de Longchampt, Tiffany, Frédéric Fekkai, Phyto and Lierac, and Baron François.

Performances by the Choir of Sainte Marie Reine, Opus 9 chamber ensemble, and singer Phoebe Legere added to the warmth of the evening.