Step into the light at the iconic Rainbow Room on September 9, 2026, as we gather for LISC NY's Big Apple Awards Gala. Perched high above Midtown Manhattan on the 65th floor of 30 Rockefeller Plaza, this legendary venue offers a breathtaking backdrop with its classic elegance and panoramic views of the city skyline. Under our theme, Brilliant Futures: Illuminating What's Possible Through Community Investment, the evening celebrates the visionaries lighting new paths for New York. These change makers don't just hope for progress—they invest in bold, community-driven solutions that empower our neighborhoods and drive lasting impact.

Join us for a premier opportunity to connect with fellow leaders, innovators, and advocates who share a deep commitment to shaping a stronger, more equitable New York. We look forward to welcoming you to an evening of meaningful conversation as we honor those who are building a brighter future for our communities.

As we illuminate the night, we encourage you to wear your finest metallics, silver, gold, and beyond to match the radiant spirit of the evening.

Step inside a spectacular evening of purpose, progress, and community-driven impact. The 2026 LISC NY Big Apple Awards Gala at the iconic Rainbow Room brought together visionaries, investors, and civic leaders united by a shared vision: Brilliant Futures.

Through bold leadership and transformative community investment, LISC NY continues to spark sustainable growth, forge lasting progress, and unlock what is truly possible for neighborhoods across New York. Watch the highlights below to experience the energy of a community dedicated to building a brighter, more equitable tomorrow.

Yvonne
Stennett

Yvonne Stennett

Executive Director, Community League of the Heights (CLOTH)

Yvonne Stennett, Executive Director of Community League of the Heights (CLOTH), has been a driving force in community development across Upper Manhattan for over 40 years. Under her leadership, CLOTH has grown into a multi-service organization supporting more than 100,000 residents annually in housing, employment, education, and health initiatives. She has led the development of over 3,200 housing units, including supportive housing for homeless individuals and foster youth, and co-led the Inwood Library project (The Eliza), a landmark development integrating public resources with housing.

Beyond housing, Stennett has played a key role in expanding access to education and health services. She founded the Community Health Academy of the Heights, a pioneering 6-12 public school, and has grown CLOTH’s food pantry to serve over 70,000 people annually. Through her leadership, CLOTH has secured major funding, including a $1 million grant from MacKenzie Scott, to expand programs that strengthen neighborhoods and improve quality of life. Her contributions have earned numerous honors, including the NYC Public Library’s Brooke Russell Astor Award and the NY State Senate’s Woman of Distinction honor. She will be recognized at the 2025 LISC NY Big Apple Gala for her lifelong commitment to community development and leadership.

Stennett’s leadership extends beyond CLOTH, serving on advisory boards for New York Presbyterian Hospital, Enterprise Community Partners, and the Empire State New Market Tax Credit Corporation. She has played a significant role in urban policy and economic development, co-chairing the Land Use and Zoning Committee for Manhattan’s Community Board 9. Holding a B.A. from Lincoln University, she has completed executive leadership programs at Columbia Business School and Harvard Kennedy School. Her expertise in housing, education, and community revitalization has shaped policies that continue to enhance opportunities for neighborhoods across New York City.

Yvonne Stennett

Yvonne Stennett

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Yvonne
Stennett