History Made at 59th Annual Gold Medal Gala: $3.2 Million Raised
U.S. Ski & Snowboard hosted the 59th annual Gold Medal Gala, presented by J.Crew, in New York City to celebrate the spirit of the “team behind the team.” In its 59th year, the Gala raised a record-breaking $3.2 million – the largest single night of fundraising in the organization’s history – to directly support U.S. Ski & Snowboard athletes on their road to the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic & Paralympic Winter Games this winter.
The Zeigfeld Ballroom welcomed back more than 500 guests for the event, including more than 20 athletes representing all sports, alumni, donors, partners, board members and more to celebrate the upcoming season, which begins Saturday with the men’s and women’s World Cup in Sölden, Austria.
The highlight of the evening featured an inspiring on-stage conversation between Stifel U.S. Alpine Ski Team athletes Lindsey Vonn and Lauren Macuga. The discussion centered around the power of mentorship and full-circle moments. Vonn was Macuga’s hero growing up and now they’re teammates.
“Lindsey Vonn knows what it takes to win and I want to learn that,” said Macuga, when asked about being a teammate with her childhood hero. Vonn responded, “I was a little intimidated coming back, but I love being around Lauren and the whole team. Lauren will be a leader for a long time.”
The evening also included the presentation of the annual Transcendence Award to Stifel Financial and CEO Ron Kruszewski. This award honors a person, business or organization that transcends snow sports. Stifel’s expanded partnership through 2034 marks the longest deal in U.S. Ski & Snowboard’s history, enabling the organization to invest deeply in the long-term success of its athletes and programs.
Throughout the evening, guests contributed through table purchases, a live auction hosted by Harry Santa-Ollala and a paddle raise – all proceeds made from the evening directly benefit U.S. Ski & Snowboard’s 240 athletes across 10 sports.
“We’re deeply grateful to our supporters, partners, and donors who make nights like this possible,” said Sophie Goldschmidt, President and CEO of U.S. Ski & Snowboard. “Our athletes’ success on the world stage reflects the incredible team behind them, and last night was proof of how strong that team truly is. A special thank you to our partners – especially J.Crew, our first-ever presenting partner – and to all of the athletes, donors, trustees, board members and long-time supporters who helped make this our most successful Gala yet.”
Thank you to the Gold Medal Gala chairs, Karen and John Arnold, Jeanne and Sasha Leviant, Alexa and Fernando Maddock and Kathryn and Bill Tyree for their support in putting together this annual event.