Founder’s Celebration

Date/Time: May 8, 2026 | 6-9 PM

Location: Fleisher Art Memorial | 719 Catharine Street

Join us on Friday, May 8, 2026 at Fleisher Art Memorial for an evening of art, community, and celebration. We are proud to honor Ellie and Jeff Marrazzo, founders of the Marrazzo Family Foundation, whose shared belief in the transformative power of creativity guides their work. Rooted in their own lifelong experiences in the arts, from Ellie’s early start in photography to Jeff’s musical upbringing, their foundation is dedicated to expanding access to creative opportunities for young people across Philadelphia. Together, they champion creativity as a vital force for confidence, innovation, and possibility.

The evening will feature signature cocktails and drinks, with catering by 12th Street, alongside a vibrant lineup of interactive art experiences. Guests can enjoy nostalgic dessert decorating with Mallory Valvano of Party Girl Bake Club; watch Teva Dang create an original illustration inspired by Fleisher’s Creative Youth programs, printed live on take home pennants; and sit for comic style portraits by Pat Aulisio featuring attendees and their favorite childhood characters. A collaborative, oversized drop-in drawing led by Amira Barnes will invite guests to contribute to a collective work inspired by CPA, while a playful photo booth with art making inspired props by Colleen Pickup will capture the spirit of the night!

Since 1990, Fleisher has recognized individuals and organizations whose vision, leadership, and dedication to the arts have made a lasting impact on our community.

Past honorees include:

• Lindsey Scannapieco (2025), a visionary urban strategist and tireless advocate for creative spaces and inclusive revitalization.
• Allan Edmunds (2023), artist and founder of Brandywine Workshop
• Tariq “Black Thought” Trotter (2023), musician and co-founder of The Roots
• Signe Wilkinson (2023), Pulitzer Prize–winning editorial cartoonist
• Leticia Roa Nixon (2022), journalist and community advocate
• Dr. Constance Clayton (2021), pioneering Philadelphia school superintendent
• Diane Burko (2019), artist and environmental activist
• Dr. Carmen Febo San Miguel and Gayle Isa (2018), family medicine specialist and Latino arts leader, and founder of Asian Arts Initiative
• Marsha Moss (2017), public art curator and consultant
• Louise Clement Hoff (2015), painter and educator
• Helen Cunningham and Ted Newbold (2014), lifelong civic and arts advocates
• Dina and Jerry Wind (2013), trailblazing artist, sculptor, and arts patron
• Jill and Sheldon Bonovitz (2012), visionary art patrons and collectors