James Lenox House and Carnegie East House to honor Phillips of TPG Architecture and Romano of JRM Construction Management on April 8

 

 

Manhattan, NY James Lenox House and Carnegie East House will honor two New Yorkers, each of whom has demonstrated a commitment to the needs of older adults, at its annual Spring Blossoms Gala on Tuesday, April 8, at The Plaza Hotel, 768 5^th Ave.

Co-recipients of the 2025 Mary Lenox Sheafe Award are James Phillips, AIA, founder and managing executive of TPG Architecture, and Joseph Romano, chief executive officer of JRM Construction Management.

The gala raises funds to support safe, affordable living at James Lenox House and its sister residence, Carnegie East House. Programs include excellent nursing care, social work counselors, exercise and yoga programs, health and wellness seminars, as well as robust libraries. In addition, the communities offer a variety of cultural opportunities, including musical performances, dance programs, and multiple opportunities to socialize, which is critical given that a major enemy of older adults is social isolation. 

“We are proud to honor Jim Phillips and Joe Romano for their contributions to the James Lenox House Association. Their passion for improving the support of our properties and care of our residents aligns with the organization’s steadfast commitment to its residents and the New York community for nearly 160 years,” said Joseph Girven, executive director of the James Lenox House Association.

Mary Lenox Sheafe Award co-honoree Jim Phillips, AIA is a leader in the interior design and architecture fields. As founder and managing executive of TPG Architecture, he guides clients through their decision-making processes with astute appreciation of their organizational needs. Phillips brings a creative and agile approach blended with sophistication rooted in 45 years of leadership and design experience. Ultimately, his practice emphasizes the creation of environments that improve his clients’ businesses. Phillips has been involved with James Lenox House Association since 2016. His hobbies include fly-fishing, traveling with his family, and visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites. 

“I am deeply grateful to be co-recipient of this year’s Mary Lenox Sheafe Award, which James Lenox House Association gives out annually to honor those who have gone above and beyond to show support for older adults,” said Mr. Phillips. 

Joe Romano, the co-recipient of the Mary Lenox Sheafe Award, is CEO of JRM Construction Management. As CEO, Romano maintains the smooth operation of the firm on a daily basis and ensures the successful delivery of all project work. He instills JRM’s mission and values across the team while bringing a fresh, efficient approach to the construction marketplace. Romano maintains strong relationships with clients, consultants, and subcontractors, and brings an innovative approach to developing new construction programs that best achieve each client’s goals. He has been involved with James Lenox House Association since 2019.  

“I am proud to be recognized for my compassion and contributions to the older adult community at JHLA, and to follow in the footsteps of founder Mary Lenox Sheafe, whose caring and compassionate leadership is a notable legacy that has been passed through the decades. Thank you for making me this year’s co-recipient of the Mary Lenox Sheafe Award,” said Romano. 

For sponsorship and ticket information, visit www.jlhainc.org, or contact Sarah Stagg Grubbe at [email protected].