Last week, FRIENDS honored Philip K. Howard, a best-selling author and lawyer, at the annual benefit dinner. The event was attended by over 200 people. Howard was recognized for his longstanding civic commitment, which extended beyond his early years as an officer and Chair of the Municipal Art Society to his role as one of America's leading thinkers on governing frameworks.

FRIENDS Board President Franny Eberhart said, “We are delighted to honor Philip, as a longtime New Yorker, thought leader, changemaker, and champion of preserving the best of the City’s past while aligning us for the best possible future outcomes.”

Upon accepting his award, Phillip K. Howard remarked: “I am honored to receive this recognition from the civic group that has done so much to preserve and enhance the history and culture of this significant swath of New York City. Good government is impossible without an active citizenry. Citizen groups like Friends can tame the worst urges of political decision-makers while helping to introduce new priorities of social concern. I learned early on that citizens who band together in a just cause can move the political earth. I’m so pleased to receive this award from Friends, which exemplifies this tradition.”

Please click here to see the photos of the exciting night.

For more media coverage of the event:
New York Social Diary
Digital Party