I am excited to share my experience at the latest Quadrille Ball. Having attended since 2009, I have witnessed its evolution, and each year it surpasses expectations. The Quadrille dance presentation remains the highlight, a spectacular performance that distinguishes this event in New York City.
This year’s venue, 583 Park Avenue, was exquisite. Its high ceilings, magnificent chandelier, and large stage perfectly complemented the elegance of our ball. The spacious layout allowed for dining areas, a generous dance floor, and a beautiful silent auction set-up. Overall, the Quadrille Ball continues to impress. It’s an event I eagerly anticipate year after year.
The evening started out with the reception on the garden level of the venue. This is a light and airy space. The passed hors d’oevres were plentiful and delicious. There was an emphasis on a large variety of champagnes and sparkling wines which I liked. Then, we had our procession to the ballroom two-by-two and in small groups which adds to the glamour of the evening.
The silent auction did not disappoint again this year. There were numerous high-quality items that garnered my bids. I am always amazed how those on the Ball Committee procure such attractive donations.
The music by Lester Lanin’s orchestra and dancing started right away during the first dinner course service. The music hardly took a break all evening except for the committee speeches by Ball Committee Chairs Jimmie Jost and JB Kresser, Master of Ceremony Gordon Cooper and some others. Two students that received stipends, Marlies Goes and Benjamin Hunter Williams were selected to speak. Their inspiring stories reminded us of the importance of education and the appreciation of our donations to the scholarship fund.
Guest of Honor Dr. Bernd Scheifele
The Guest of Honor Dr. Bernd Scheifele gave a rousing speech about the importance of education. Dr. Scheifle is chairman or a member of the Supervisory Boards of Heidelberg Materials AG, Holtzbrinck Publishing Group, PHOENIX Pharma SE, and Springer Nature AG & Co. KgaA. Other dignitaries in attendance included The Consul General of Germany in New York, Mr. David Gill, the Austrian Consul General Ms. Helene Steinhäusl, and the acting Consul General of France M. Damien Laban accompanied by their spouses. I am impressed with their attendance as it demonstrates the quality of the event and the importance of our organization.
Quadrille Performance
I am proud to be a part of Quadrille and always look out for prospective dancers to nominate. I have sponsored six dancers and had a hand in influencing a few others too. It’s fun to see them learn the dance and perform at the ball. With everyone’s continued commitment and attendance, and the support from corporate and private sponsors, I look forward to seeing many more Quadrille Balls in years to come.
So much work by the all-volunteer committees goes into creating such a wonderful event that supports the great cause of higher education. I encourage our Quadrille community to see how you can be involved in any small way, or to attend the ball, no matter where you live or how many years ago you were involved. More about the Quadrille Ball and how to donate can be found on the Website: https://quadrilleball.org
Silent Auction
Conrad Steinmann has been involved in Quadrille activities since dancing in 2009. He has been on the Alumni Committee since 2015 and been a chair or co-chair since 2017. Conrad welcomes outreach by fellow dancer alumni and the Quadrille community. Email him at conrad@quadrilleball.org .
