From left: Arbor Rising Co-Founder Sammy Politziner, YPIE Alumna Alicia, YPIE Board Chair Ellen Cutler Levy, YPIE CEO Sam Wallis, and YPIE Board Chair Emeritus David Westin.

This year’s YPIE Gala was an unforgettable evening celebrating students on the path to success in college and beyond.

YPIE proudly honored Board Chair Ellen Cutler Levy, who inspired guests by highlighting principles that have guided YPIE for 18 years and created a lasting, meaningful impact on students.

“It’s tempting to want to topple entire systems, especially these days. But what I’ve learned at YPIE is that deliberate action can be just as powerful…small steps, done consistently, can grow into real impact,” she said.

YPIE also honored Arbor Rising for its transformational partnership that has deepened YPIE’s impact and helped YPIE expand into new communities: “Over our 15-year history, we’ve looked at over 2,000 early-stage nonprofits (mostly in the New York area) and we’ve funded only 45…even among a group of incredible organizations and incredible leaders, YPIE is a standout,” said Sammy Politziner, Arbor Rising co-Founder

YPIE Board Member and Alumna Charlyn Brea expressed gratitude to outgoing Board Chair David Westin. “David, on behalf of the entire YPIE Board of Directors, and from me, a deeply appreciative alum of YPIE, thank you for your visionary leadership and your unwavering commitment to our mission. You have elevated YPIE’s impact throughout your tenure.”

YPIE CEO Sam Wallis closed the program by highlighting the impact of education: “If a growing wealth gap is a defining problem of our era, then education is a winning issue. I’ve been at YPIE for 10 years. We have seen literally thousands of you people who have educated themselves to better lives.”

The event was held at Sarah Lawrence College with catering by Zuppa Restaurant.

The evening was a celebration of community, connections and the power of education to ensure young people have bright futures.

Yonkers Partners in Education (YPIE) partners with students to ensure they are ready for, enroll in and complete college. It confronts the challenges of low-income, urban school districts by providing families with equitable access to the critical tools and services necessary for college success. Founded in 2007, YPIE puts college and high-paying jobs within reach for thousands of students.