Jean Shafiroff hosts Reception for French Heritage Society Le Bal Impérial

Jean Shafiroff, French Heritage Society (FHS) Board Member, Gala co-Chair and former Gala honoree hosted a reception for the FHS launch to its gala season at her New York City residence. Guests enjoyed musical performances by pianist Yui Kitamura, Wako performer Satochiki, and violinist Valentina Paolucci. Guests were further delighted to see New York State Assembly Member Rebecca Seawright present Jean Shafiroff and French Heritage Society with certificates of recognition from New York State for their contributions and service to preserving French architectural and cultural legacy both in the United States and France. Remarks were given by Jean Shafiroff, as well as FHS Events Chair CeCe Black, and FHS Chief Executive Officer Jennifer Herlein.

Jennifer Herlein, NYS Assemblywoman Rebecca Seawright, Jean Shafiroff (Photo Credit: PMC / Paul Bruinooge)

Notable attendees included: Elizabeth Baltz, Erin Berthoux, Carole Bellidora Westfall and David M. Hayes, Lee Black, Louise Braver, Candace Bushnell, Marlon Corvera, Roberta Downs Sandeman Houghton, FHS Boardmember Jennifer Farrell, Kenneth and Maria Fishel, Kurt Grether and Bill Stubbs, David Hochberg, Lucia Hwong Gordon, Cheri Kaufman, Dr. Marc Lazare, Arlene Lazare, Valerie Lettan, Davy Malinur, Stephanie Mattera, Vicky McLoughlin, Peter Thomas Roth, Carole Roth, Caroline Ryals, Patricia and Tom Shiah, Victoria Sherman, Hunt Slonem, Ilona Anoli Velez, Suzie and Pierre Villere.

Kurt Grether, Bill Stubbs, Jean Shafiroff, CeCe Black Lee Black (Photo Credit: PMC / Paul Bruinooge)

Hunt Slonem, Jean Shafiroff (Photo Credit: PMC / Paul Bruinooge)

Jean Shafiroff (Photo Credit: PMC / Paul Bruinooge)

Atmosphere (Photo Credit: PMC / Paul Bruinooge)

The FHS will host its annual Gala Dinner Dance at a private club in New York City. This year, Le Bal Impérial will be a celebration of French savoir-faire, imperial splendor, and timeless craftsmanship. This highly anticipated, black-tie affairwill have music and dancing provided by the Bob Hardwick Sound, with an afterparty to follow.

About Jean Shafiroff:

Jean Shafiroff is a philanthropist, humanitarian, TV host, writer, and the author of the book “Successful Philanthropy: How to Make a Life By What You Give”. Jean works extensively as a volunteer fundraiser and leader in the philanthropic world. She serves on the boards of 8 charitable organizations and each year chairs upwards of eight to ten different charity galas.  She also hosts and underwrites many large parties in her homes for different non-profits.   Among the many causes she champions are those involved in women’s rights, rights of underserved populations, health care, and animal welfare. In addition to hosting her own TV show, entitled Successful Philanthropy, Jean Shafiroff often appears on TV shows, podcasts and then in the press about her fashion and philanthropy.  She is an international leader who strives to motivate people of all ages and backgrounds to get involved in the philanthropic process.

Jean Shafiroff serves on the boards of the French Heritage Society, Southampton Hospital Foundation,  NYC Mission Society,  Couture Council of the Museum at FIT,  New York Women’s Foundation, Casita Maria, Global Strays, and Southampton Animal Shelter Foundation Honorary Board.  In addition, she is a member of the Advisory Board of the Historical Society of Palm Beach County. A Catholic,  Jean  served on the board of the Jewish Board for 28 years and now is one of their honorary trustees. Jean Shafiroff has been honored numerous times by a variety of charitable organizations for her work and is regarded Jean as being among the leading ladies of philanthropy.

About The FHS:

Open to all lovers of France, FHS aims to ensure that the treasures of French architectural and cultural heritage surviveto delight, educate and inspire future generations. Over the past 44 years, FHS has awarded more than 730 restoration and cultural grants to properties throughout France and in the United States and supported nearly 600 university students who have crossed the Atlantic for career-defining internships at esteemed institutions. FHS has 12 chapters, 11in the U.S. and one in Paris, and membership includes access to all.

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Last modified: October 9, 2026