Chair Name: Clare E. McKeon

Event Name: American Federation of Arts 100th Anniversary Gala

Event Description: The gala will celebrate the 100th year anniversary of the AFA and its mission of enriching the public’s experience of art and understanding of culture by organizing art exhibitions for presentation in museums around the world, publishing exhibition catalogs, and developing education programs.

Date of Event: Wednesday, October 27, 2010

Event Location: The Metropolitan Club,  NYC

Vivanista recently had the pleasure of sitting down with Clare MckEon to learn more about upcoming AFA Gala, and her responsibilities as the event-chair.


What is it about the organization that made you willing to take on the role as event Chair?

The history of the AFA and its phenomenal exhibitions program is inspirational, and I am honored to be involved with such a longstanding and venerable institution. It is exciting to chair the 100th Anniversary Gala to celebrate our esteemed history, as well as to help build a strong foundation for the next 100 years.

What constitutes success for you with regards to the specific event you’re chairing?

I’d love to think that we are celebrating our 100th anniversary with our longstanding benefactors, as well as making significant outreach to new friends and widening awareness of the AFA through the event.

How do you balance the quantifiable goal of raising money with the goal of broadening goodwill?

We have tried hard to offer a variety of ticket prices to include new and young supporters, as well as achieve our financial goals. Ticket price variations are as follows:  $2500 for a Benefactor Ticket, $1500 for a Patron Ticket, $1000 for a Supporter Ticket, and $500 for a Junior Ticket (age: 35 and under).

What plans have you made to address problems that may arise?

We have bi-monthly meetings to address any issues as they appear.

What background do you have to take on the role as Chair?

I am a trustee of the AFA. I have also co-chaired other events such as the Frick Garden Party, Fountain House Associates Fall Fete, New Yorkers for Children Fool’s Fete, Turquoise Mountain Foundation Dinner, and the Audubon Women in Conservation Luncheon,

What are you wearing to the event?

From the Spring 2011 collection of Lela Rose

Definitely a dress by my favorite designer Lela Rose.

What is your fundraising motto?

Aim high!

What qualities make an event Chair successful?

Enthusiasm, commitment, and the ability to work as a team. And never taking “no” for an answer!

What external resources do you use in your fundraising efforts (i.e. websites, mentors, etc.)

The media is an incredibly important part of our fundraising efforts, and we couldn’t do without websites such as Vivanista who spread the word for us.

What was the best charity event you’ve ever attended and why?

The 2007 AFA Gala was the perfect balance between fun and education. It was after that event that I became involved with the organization.

What is one fundraising tip you’ve learned that you’re willing to share?

Listen! To the organization staff or your fellow committee members – there are so many great ideas out there and you don’t have to think of everything.

What faded tradition do you wish would be resurrected?

Carriages at midnight – I’d love those to return instead of fighting for a cab!