Hetrick-Martin Institute Marks 45 Years of Supporting LGBTQIA+ Youth at Annual Emery Awards Gala

The Hetrick-Martin Institute (HMI) celebrated its 45th anniversary with the highly anticipated annual Emery Awards on October 24, 2024. Hosted at the Nordstrom NYC Flagship on West 57th Street, this year’s event underscored HMI’s ongoing mission to empower LGBTQIA+ youth by offering a safe space and vital resources for growth and development.

The evening was filled with poignant moments and heartfelt tributes to community advocates. Among the honorees was Dr. John Pachankis, Founding Director and David R. Kessler Professor of Public Health at Yale University, recognized for Yale’s Initiative for LGBTQ Mental Health. His groundbreaking work in mental health has become an invaluable support for LGBTQIA+ youth, championing mental wellness within this community.

Nordstrom received this year’s Corporate Honoree award, celebrated for their unwavering support of LGBTQIA+ causes. Their commitment to inclusivity and corporate responsibility aligns closely with HMI’s values, making the venue at Nordstrom’s flagship store an ideal choice for the milestone celebration.

Emmy Award-winning entertainment journalist Frank DiLella served as the evening’s host, lending a lively spirit to the gala, which featured music by the iconic DJ Lina Bradford. Attendees were also treated to standout performances by HMI alumni Kimiyah Prescott Balenciaga, Nicholas “Primo” Segar, and Robert “Silk” Mason, who showcased their talents in a memorable display of HMI’s positive impact on its youth.

The star-studded guest list included prominent figures like Susanne Bartsch, Aquaria, Mario Cantone, Evan Ross Katz, and Cody Rigsby, along with advocates such as Amy Harclerode, Dr. John Pachankis, and Gbenga Akinnagbe. These supporters helped shine a light on the importance of HMI’s mission and the enduring need for dedicated spaces that support LGBTQIA+ youth.

Through the Emery Awards, HMI raised essential funds that will continue to fuel programs and services dedicated to enhancing the lives of LGBTQIA+ youth, enabling HMI to expand its reach and influence in the years to come.