Celebrating the Inspiring Achievements of Eight Senior Leaders at The New Jewish Home Gala

Eight Over Eighty Gala 2026: Celebrating Age and Impact

The New Jewish Home recently hosted its 11th annual Eight Over Eighty Gala at the iconic Ziegfeld Ballroom in Manhattan, honoring eight outstanding individuals who exemplify the beauty of aging gracefully. This year’s event celebrated remarkable contributions across various fields, including arts, science, and health care, while raising over $1.1 million for The New Jewish Home’s vital services for older adults.

Among the honorees were notable personalities like actress Candice Bergen, renowned cardiologist Dr. Valentin Fuster, influential feminist scholar Carol Gilligan, and Nobel Prize-winning scientist Dr. Harold E. Varmus. These individuals have not only excelled in their respective fields but have also made lasting impacts on the community, demonstrating that to age is not merely an inevitable process but an opportunity for continued growth, purpose, and leadership.

Dr. Jeffrey Farber, President and CEO of The New Jewish Home, emphasized the importance of celebrating those over eighty, stating, "Their accomplishments stand as a powerful reminder that impact has no expiration date," reinforcing the idea that significant life achievements can flourish with age. The gala served as a platform to highlight the struggles and triumphs of the honorees, presenting video tributes that illuminated their life journeys and enduring legacies.

Among the other distinguished guests celebrating the honorees was Daniel F. Murphy, Jr., who received The Spirit Award for his commitment to supporting The New Jewish Home’s mission. His contributions, both personal and as part of Bond Schoeneck & King PLLC, have empowered care for older adults, embodying the spirit of community support reflected in the evening's festivities.

Attendees of the gala also included former honorees and influential community leaders, further showcasing the event's wide-reaching impact within various sectors. Among these distinguished guests were Letty Cottin Pogrebin, co-founder of Ms. magazine, and Ruth Messinger, former Manhattan Borough President. Their presence highlights the supportive network that The New Jewish Home fosters, creating an environment dedicated not only to care and rehabilitation but also to advocacy and community engagement.

Furthermore, the event recognized the 20th anniversary of SkillSpring, a workforce development initiative from The New Jewish Home designed to empower young adults from under-resourced communities. Graduates shared heartfelt stories, illustrating how the program enabled them to pursue careers within health care. This commitment to supporting future generations demonstrates the holistic nature of The New Jewish Home’s mission. The program has created over 900 jobs and internships for young New Yorkers, showing a dedication to transforming lives at multiple levels.

In conclusion, the Eight Over Eighty Gala not only celebrated the incredible achievements of those honored but also reinforced The New Jewish Home's mission to enhance the quality of life for older adults—an effort characterized by compassion, support, and innovative health care services. The gala serves as a reminder that age is not merely a number but a testament to resilience, creativity, and the continuous capacity for impact.

To view honoree biographies and videos showcasing their contributions, please visit The New Jewish Home's website. With events like these, The New Jewish Home continues to inspire courage, nurture creativity, and celebrate the contributions of those who lead the way for others, reinforcing their commitment to older adults and the community at large.