Culture for One, a nonprofit organization that brings the power of the arts to New York City children in foster care, will honor The Shubert Organization Chairman and CEO Robert E. Wankel during its Fall Gala October 5 at the Edison Ballroom.
Wankel, who is also the chairman of The Shubert Foundation, will be honored with the 2026 Culture for One Inspiration Award. Wankel plays a leading role in numerous charitable, community, and civic organizations, including The Broadway League, the national trade association for the Broadway industry; the Times Square Alliance; and The Actors Studio. He is board chair of the American Academy of Dramatic Arts, president of Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, chair of the board of The Actors Fund Housing Development Corporation, and a member of The Actors Fund Board of Trustees.
“I am honored to receive the 2026 Culture for One Inspiration Award,” said Wankel in a statement. “I know firsthand the profound impact the arts can have, and I deeply value the work Culture for One does for New York City children in foster care. I look forward to seeing the organization continue to grow and expand its impact in the years ahead.”
“It is a privilege for Culture for One to honor Robert Wankel, whose leadership in the theatre industry and lifelong commitment to the arts continue to inspire generations,” added Culture for One Executive Director Susan Kasarsky. “Mr. Wankel’s lifelong commitment to making the arts accessible embodies Culture for One’s mission to transform the lives of children in foster care through arts-based programming.”
The forthcoming gala will feature performances by Culture for One Arts Scholarship students studying at Harlem School of the Arts, alongside HSA students.
Funds raised at the event will further expand Culture for One’s arts-based programming, which empowers children to build resilience, forge meaningful connections, and envision brighter futures.
The 2026 Fall Gala will be chaired by The John Gore Organization, The Nederlander Organization, and The Shubert Organization.
The Shubert Organization is America’s oldest professional theatre company and the largest theatre owner on Broadway. Since the dawn of the 20th century, the Shuberts have operated hundreds of theatres in New York City and throughout the United States. The Shuberts currently owns and operates 17 Broadway theatres, six Off-Broadway venues, and the Forrest Theatre in Philadelphia.
Tickets and additional information can be found by clicking here.