PWC Holiday Gala honors Valenti, Kwon, and Weiss; 35th annual black tie event held at the yale club

"PWC has evolved, expanded and become an integral and accepted part of the construction industry," said Professional Women in Construction (PWC) executive director Lenore Janis as she ushered in the organization's 35th anniversary at their annual black tie holiday gala at the Yale Club. The event paid tribute to a trio of honored guests. Caroline Weiss, associate principal, Weidlinger Associates, Inc. thanked "all who forged the way for me" and pledged her commitment to "mentor and support those entering the industry." Weiss was introduced by Raymond Daddazio, PhD, P.E., SECB, president and CEO, Weidlinger Associates, who called her "an outstanding professional and wonderful mentor." Jeannie Kwon, chief of staff, MTA Capital Construction (MTACC), spoke of several megaprojects in the works that "will change the face of New York City," including Fulton Center in the financial district. Michael Horodniceanu, president, MTACC, introduced Kwon and credited her for "turning many important issues around for us." Lillian Valenti, chief procurement & contracting officer, Port Authority of NY & NJ (PANYNJ), spoke of her emphasis on "leadership that honors competition, integrity and transparency" and noted that the "New York region spurs energy and creativity." William Fife, P.E., the Fife Group and Alan Reiss, director World Trade Center Construction, PANYNJ, introduced Valenti, noting her leadership displayed during the 1993 World Trade Center bombing and during 9/11 "as well as leadership to accomplish the magnitude of her current positon." The Holiday Dinner Dance Committee members were: Connie DeLaigle, PANYNJ; Eva Hatzaki, Skyline Restoration; Nicole Hunter, HNTB; Sabrina Schollmeyer, Louis Berger; Bill Fife, P.E., The Fife Group; Maria Wilpon, AIA Assoc.; and Nancy Czesak, RA, Tishman, an AECOM company; and Stan Rubin's Orchestra & Rock Band performed.