YIVO Hosts Gala Marking its 100th Anniversary

Over 300 guests attended the YIVO Institute for Jewish Research’s Centennial Gala in November 2025 at Tribeca 360, marking a milestone year for the organization and raising nearly $900K.

The evening honored Sir Simon Schama—renowned historian, author, and University Professor of Art History and History at Columbia University—for his extraordinary contributions to historical scholarship and public education, alongside Ruth and David Levine for their decades of leadership, service, and philanthropic support of YIVO. Sir Simon was recognized for his landmark body of work, including award-winning books and acclaimed BBC documentaries. Ruth Levine, a native Yiddish speaker and outgoing YIVO Board Chair, was celebrated for her lifelong dedication to YIVO’s mission, while David Levine was honored for his distinguished career and longstanding service to nonprofit institutions, including YIVO.

The program was hosted by Emmy Award-winning writer and broadcaster Randy Cohen and featured a performance by Frank London’s Klezmer Brass Allstars. The gala highlighted YIVO’s century- long commitment to preserving and advancing the study of Eastern European Jewish history and culture worldwide.

Photos by Annabel Braithwaite and Jonathan Hanson.