The New York Landmarks Conservancy hosted its annual Living Landmarks Celebration at The Plaza this November, bringing together a dazzling cross-section of the city’s cultural, civic, and philanthropic leaders. The evening-one of those “only in New York” moments-honored the 2025 class of Living Landmarks, a group whose creativity, generosity, and public spirit continue to shape the city’s artistic and architectural legacy.
“Our incredible honorees reflect the rich diversity and extraordinary talent of New York,” said Peg Breen, President of The New York Landmarks Conservancy. “Each has made significant contributions that have added to everyone’s enjoyment of the City.”
Kicking off the celebration with an a acapella version of “I Want To Be A Producer” from the Mel Brooks musical was Bonnie Comley and Stewart F. Lane, a powerhouse duo whose impact on New York’s arts landscape is both deep and enduring. As producers, authors, and the visionary founders of BroadwayHD, Comley and Lane have helped expand access to live theater worldwide. Their commitment to preserving the vibrancy of the stage aligns seamlessly with the Conservancy’s mission: safeguarding the cultural architecture that gives New York its singular pulse. Beyond their professional achievements, the couple’s philanthropy-across education, the performing arts, and historic preservation-has cemented their status as passionate advocates for the city they call home.
The event also celebrated an accomplished slate of honorees whose work spans fashion, film, and social justice. Aerin Lauder, founder and creative director of AERIN, was recognized for her continued stewardship of design and beauty rooted in New York’s timeless elegance. Oscar-winning screenwriter and director Kenneth Lonergan and acclaimed actor Mark Ruffalo were honored as a duo for their artistic contributions and advocacy, both of which have amplified New York’s role as a global creative capital. Philanthropists Cynthia Wainwright and Steve Berger received distinction for their philanthropic investments in culture and community, while Darren Walker, President of the Ford Foundation, was celebrated for his transformative leadership in equity-driven philanthropy.
The Conservancy was also delighted to welcome back numerous past honorees, including Master of Ceremonies Stephen S. Lash, underscoring the event’s legacy as a gathering of New Yorkers committed to preserving the city’s character.
In a city defined by change, preservation remains essential to its spirit. This year’s Living Landmarks remind us that protecting New York’s art, architecture, and history is not just about safeguarding the past-it’s about enriching the future.
