On September 3.2025, The Crystal Tea Room was filled with energy and pride as the Global Philadelphia Association (GPA) hosted its 10th Annual World Heritage City Celebration, commemorating a decade since Philadelphia became the first U.S. city designated as a World Heritage City.
This year’s celebration honored Ambassador David L. Cohen, former U.S. Ambassador to Canada, with the Globy Award for Distinguished Global Leadership. His work in diplomacy and civic engagement reflects the values that define Philadelphia’s global identity.
Honoring leadership and youth voices
The event was co-chaired by Madeline Bell, CEO of Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, and Daniel J. Hilferty, Chairman & CEO of Comcast Spectacor and Governor of Philadelphia Flyers. Young Professional Co-Chairs Martin Alfaro Founder and CEO of Alfaro Media Consulting and Pailyn Singhapakdi President of Preserve St. Peter’s brought a fresh perspective to the evening, emphasizing the importance of youth leadership.
“Philadelphia isn’t just looking back at its history — we’re writing the future of culture, sports, innovation, and leadership,” said Alfaro.
“Being a World Heritage City means more than preserving the past; it’s about shaping what’s next. Events like this matter because they give the next generation of leaders a real voice at the table, ensuring that our city’s story continues to inspire the world.”
Among the distinguished attendees were Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle L. Parker, former Mayor Michael Nutter, and City Council President Kenyatta Johnson
A night of connection and celebration
The evening featured a fireside chat with David L. Cohen, hosted by Andrea Mitchell, NBC News’ Chief Washington and Foreign Affairs Correspondent.
Guests enjoyed live entertainment, networking, and reflections on Philadelphia’s role as a crossroads of history and innovation. The event also spotlighted GPA’s ongoing work in cultural preservation, sustainability, youth programming, and international partnerships.
Looking ahead
GPA invites all Philadelphians to support its year-round initiatives that promote global citizenship and amplify the city’s heritage on the world stage.
Stay tuned for photos and highlights at globalphiladelphia.org
WHCC Committee Members
Divy Agnihotri, Villanova University Charles Widger School of Law
Christina Arlt, McCormick Taylor
Andrew Bergman, Philadelphia OIC
David Boardman, Temple University
Daecia Borgia, Visit Philadelphia
David Dix, Luminous Strategies
Anne and Barry Eiswerth, GPA Board Member/Architect
Val Gay, Creative Philadelphia
Scheryl Glanton, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Fox & Roach, REALTORS
Sheila Hess, Phambassadors
Susan Jacobson, Jacobson Strategic
Samar Jha, AARP
Loree Jones, Philabundance
David and Jazmine Kron, The Kron & Polis Financial Group
Richard Lee, Media Copy
Rev. Dr. Lorina Marshall-Blake, Independence Blue Cross Foundation
Kyra G. McGrath, New Ventures and Enterprises at WHYY
Rob and Karen McNeill, Deloitte
Leslie Anne Miller, Legal Professional
Senzwa M. Ntshepe, The Connect
Toyin Ogunfolaju, Jacobs
Christine Pfister, Consular Corps member
Matthew Ray, Chatterblast
Jennifer Rodríguez, Greater Philadelphia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
Dianne Semingson, DLS International Inc.
John and Susan Smith, GPA Chair Emeritus and Senior Counselor
Daisy Van Hoof Mertens, Consular Corps member
Layla El-Tannir, The Welcoming Center
Linda and Harold Yaffe, GPA Board Member/Dentist