LEAP Year Turns 30

The following writeup was submitted by LEAP Communications Coordinator Melissa Liriano.

LEAP Year Event, a cherished New Haven tradition, is back and better than ever for its 30th anniversary! This year’s event will be held on Thursday, Feb. 27, at the Dixwell Community ​“Q” House. The evening will begin with a lively reception at 5 p.m., followed by your choice of intimate dinner parties at various unique locations throughout Greater New Haven.

LEAP Year Event is a fundraiser for the non-profit organization Leadership, Education, and Athletics in Partnership (LEAP). LEAP provides free social and academic enrichment, mentorship, and leadership opportunities for more than 1,600 children and teens in New Haven’s low-income neighborhoods. 

This year’s event will honor Ann Baker Pepe and Ed Cleary, Co-Board Chairs, with combined service to LEAP of almost 60 years, with the LEAP Community Leadership Award. Don’t miss this chance to celebrate their contributions to the community, mingle with fellow guests, and enjoy plentiful complimentary delicious food and drinks and live music. 

This isn’t your typical gala dinner! LEAP Year Event offers a unique opportunity to connect with the broader New Haven community, including philanthropists, educators, and community leaders. 

Along with the reception, you’ll have the chance to select a dinner party that captures your interest. Whether it’s a discussion on artificial intelligence, fashion during the French Revolution, olive oil, or the future of New Haven, there’s a conversation to engage everyone. You’ll gain exclusive insights from respected authors, Yale professors, and industry leaders in a relaxed and inviting atmosphere, all while enjoying delicious cuisine at some of New Haven’s finest restaurants and private homes. 

Meet some of our distinguished guests:

• Dive into the publishing world with Betsy Lerner: A celebrated author and literary agent, Lerner will offer a behind-the-scenes look at the writing process and the publishing industry. 

• Explore the power of Gen Z with Kahlil Greene: This Peabody Award-winning educational activist will discuss how he’s using social media to make history more accessible and engaging for his generation. 

• Journey into the future of AI with Kyle Jensen: A leading expert in artificial intelligence, Jensen will explore the exciting possibilities of this rapidly evolving field. Come for a lesson in ChatGPT. 

• Meet Yale President Maurie McInnis: Hear about her vision for the university and her insights on leadership in higher education. 

• Learn about women’s health research with Carolyn Mazure: A pioneer in this critical field, Mazure will discuss the importance of gender-specific health research.

• Discover tech incubator ClimateHaven with Justine Lee: This dynamic CEO will discuss how her company is fostering the development of climate-friendly technologies. 

• Discuss the law with Emily Bazelon: A respected legal scholar and NYT journalist, Bazelon will offer her perspectives on recent Supreme Court decisions and their impact on our lives. 

• Explore the future of New Haven with Alex Twining: This prominent real estate developer will share his insights on urban development and the city’s growth. 

Tickets for the LEAP Year Event are $150 for the reception and a dinner party, or $25 for the reception only. There is also a First-Time Attendee/Student Ticket available for $75, which includes the reception and a dinner party. 

To purchase tickets or for more information, please visit LEAP’s website at www.leapforkids.org/lye. Don’t wait – these dinners fill up fast!