John Cabot University Celebrates the 2025 New York Gala
On April 1, 2025, John Cabot University hosted its annual New York Gala at the University Club in New York City. The New York Gala is an event honoring those within the JCU community and beyond who have contributed to the University and supported academic initiatives, scholarships, and cultural programs. Over 200 guests from the worlds of business, fashion, academia, and diplomacy attended the Gala.
This year’s distinguished honoree was Nicola Bulgari. Nicola Bulgari is a committed philanthropist and a supporter of young talent in numerous spheres of the arts worldwide. He has been a member of the Board of Trustees of Carnegie Hall since 2007, and starting in May 2015, he joined the Board of Directors of the Accademia Nazionale di Santa Cecilia in Rome, one of the most important musical foundations in the world. His dedication to both the arts and charitable endeavors continues to influence the global cultural landscape.
The 2025 New York Gala
The event kicked off with a welcome by Trustee and Co-Chair of the Gala Committee, Stefano Acunto. Chairman of the Board of Trustees Salvatore Salibello and JCU’s President Franco Pavoncello also greeted guests, followed by alumnus Francesco Ruspoli (Class of 1994), president of the JCU Alumni Association and Member of the JCU Board of Trustees.
The evening continued with the presentation of the JCU Frank J. Guarini Medal for Leadership in Philanthropic Engagement to Nicola Bulgari. His daughter, Veronica Bulgari, accepted the medal on his behalf. The award is named after the former U.S. Congressman, who is Chairman Emeritus and a major benefactor of JCU.
This year’s Gala was dedicated to the John Cabot University Scholarship Program, with all proceeds supporting the University’s Annual Fund. Through the Annual Fund, these contributions will help provide deserving and talented students with the opportunity to thrive at JCU.
JCU is grateful to the Trustees, alumni, and friends who made this event a resounding success, as well as the supporters who placed an ad in the Gala Journal. Watch the 2025 New York Gala video.
