Over the past weekend, some of the world’s most influential figures were involved in philanthropic efforts. Earlier, Jay-Z hosted the inaugural Shawn Carter Foundation Gala. With the help of Jay-Z, Meek Mill, Robert Kraft and more, the foundation raised millions of dollars for college students. Meanwhile, pop culture figures in the nation’s capital raised money for a cause of their own at the 2019 National Portrait Gala.
Lin-Manuel Miranda, James Corden, Michelle Obama and more helped to raise $2 million for the National Portrait Gala’s philanthropic efforts. Earth, Wind and Fire, Jeff Bezos, Gayle King and Anna Wintour were also in attendance for the night’s events. Throughout the night, King acted as the night’s emcee. Bezos, Earth, Wind & Fire, Miranda, Indra Nooyi and Wintour were awarded the “Portrait of a Nation Prize” for their significant contributions to the nation’s shared history, development and culture.
The museum’s director, Kim Sajet, said, “We honored an incredible group of people who have excelled in their chosen fields and then made it made a commitment to pass on their knowledge and advice to the next generation.”