This year’s annual Architectural Dinner took us to the recently renovated Founder’s Hall at Girard College. Designed by architect William Strickland’s protégé, Thomas U. Walter, Founder’s Hall at Girard College opened its doors in 1847. Walter would later be named Architect of the U.S. Capitol and design its extraordinary cast-iron dome and several wings. Founder’s Hall was Walter’s most important early commission and remains one of the finest examples of Greek Revival architecture in the nation. It is both a National Historic Landmark and the emblem of an innovative institution that has educated over 22,000 children in need.
Alan and Greta Greenberger were honored as the recipients of the 2025 Mary Werner DeNadai Award – presented to civic leaders who have made a lasting impact in historic preservation.
Alan and Greta. Greta and Alan. They are the Fred and Ginger of Philadelphia’s civic ballet. Rarely has there been a duo as dynamic as this couple in helping shape Philadelphia’s historic built environment.
Alan parlayed a successful career as an architect into successive roles in public service and academia that helped make our historic city stronger and more beautiful.
Greta parlayed her passion for Philadelphia’s magnificent City Hall into a 26-year career as its official tour guide and biggest booster. Upon her retirement, WHYY wrote that Greta is “the guardian of Philadelphia’s finest civic building.”
LIVE AUCTION
The evening included a LIVE AUCTION of four unique opportunities with auctioneer George McNeely. CONGRATULATIONS TO THE WINNERS!
Private Tours and Cocktail Receptions at Three Distinctive Homes
A festive, candle-lit winter evening with a private house tour and cocktail reception at Foxlea, home of Emilie & Peter Lapham
Private house and collections tour at the Society Hill home of Lisa Roberts & David Seltzer
Cocktail reception and private tour at the elegant home of Barbara Eberlein & Jerry Wind on the 1800 block of Delancey Street, just off Rittenhouse Square.
ONE-WEEK VACATION AT VILLA SASSELLA FARMHOUSE IN TUSCANY (sleeps 12)
Villa Sassella is a six-bedroom, beautifully renovated, 14th century farmhouse in the Tuscan countryside approximately nine miles from Lucca and 45 minutes from the Pisa Airport.
Thank you to our sponsors
“Girard College” Sponsors
Ann and David Brownlee
Brandywine Realty
Firstrust Bank
Gattuso Development Partners
John Milner Architects
John F. Smith, III
MGA Partners
Wexford Science + Technology
Preservationist Sponsors
A. Roy Smith
Allyson Young Schwartz
Cloud Gehshan
Domus
Eberlein Design Consultants
Global Philadelphia
John and Cara Fry
Keast & Hood
McDonald Building Company
O’Donnell & Naccarato Structural Engineers
Philly Office Retail
Poor Richard’s Trust
Post Brothers
Powers & Company
Premier Building Restoration
Sally Elk
Southwood Properties
The Lighting Practice
All proceeds from this fundraising event support the work and mission of the Preservation Alliance for Greater Philadelphia. Contact Susan Matyas for more information.
