Point Foundation (Point) will present its Leadership Award to acclaimed TV Producer, educator and M.D., Neal Baer at the April 7 Point Honors New York gala.
The event will be held at the landmark New York Public Library on Fifth Avenue, a venue befitting the mission of Point which is the nation’s largest scholarship-granting organization for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) students of merit.
Dr. Baer’s good friend, the Emmy and Golden Globe award-winning actress Mariska Hargitay, will present the Point Leadership Award to him. Dr. Baer, the Executive Producer and Showrunner for the current CBS hit television show “Under The Dome,” has never shied away from writing ground-breaking, pivotal LGBTQ storylines and characters in his award-winning television programs such as “ER” and “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit.”
“As a recently out gay man, I’m deeply honored to be recognized by the Point Foundation for my television work over the years depicting the stories of LGBTQ youth,” said Neal Baer. “I know firsthand the critical importance of striving to live honestly and authentically, and the Point Foundation is leading the way to insure that LGBTQ youth receive academic and leadership support to overcome obstacles that may impede their success. Had there been a Point Foundation when I was growing up in Denver, Colorado, and while I was attending college, I know that my struggle to live openly as a gay man would have been made so much easier and less traumatic. I commend the Foundation for shining a light on LGBTQ youth scholars and for providing support to them during this crucially significant phase of their lives.”
“I am often at a loss for words for how much Neal means to me,” said Mariska Hargitay. “I am thrilled to honor him like this, not only because he so richly deserves it, but because I am always grateful for the opportunity to show my deep affection and admiration. And to be able to do so in the community of others who feel the same way about him is a true gift.”
"It is a privilege for Point Foundation to honor Neal Baer with the Point Leadership Award, which is given to an individual who has achieved prominence in their professional career and unequivocally supported the LGBTQ community," said Jorge Valencia, Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of Point Foundation. “Dr. Baer completed medical school before going on to his tremendously successful career in television. He is an inspiring example of innate creativity and altruistic spirit empowered by education and perseverance.”
The Honorary Co-Chairs for Point Honors New York are Judith Light, Herb Hamsher, and David Mixner. Other honorees and talent appearing at the event will be announced soon. Some of Point’s 78 current scholars and 165 alumni will share with the audience their inspiring stories about the challenges they have overcome in pursuit of their higher education degree.
Presenting Sponsors for Point Honors New York are the Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson and Wells Fargo. Premier Sponsors, Audi and Time Warner. Principal Sponsor, Philippe Brugère-Trélat and Mitchell Draizin.
For more information about attending or supporting Point Honors New York visit www.pointfoundation.org/NYHonors.
