ARC/GNY Chairman William Gray and CEO Theresa A. Bischoff present President Clinton with a Certificate of Recognition. He was recognized for his support of the Red Cross and his work on behalf of those affected by the south Asian tsunami and the victims of the Gulf Coast hurricanes, as well as individuals battling AIDS in Africa, the Caribbean and Asia. (Photo: Ellen Wallop)

On Thursday evening, October 20, The American Red Cross in Greater New York (ARC/GNY) celebrated its 100th Anniversary and honored former President William J. Clinton at a gala Centennial Celebration Ball in the World Financial Center Winter Garden in lower Manhattan.

New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg and Jon Stewart of "The Daily Show” spoke at the event, which featured a special performance by critically acclaimed jazz trumpeter Chris Botti and Grammy winner Paula Cole.  Daniel Rodriguez, former NYC police officer, sang the National Anthem.

Top government and business leaders joined together to commemorate ARC/GNY's Centennial year. Guests included Congresswoman Nydia M. Velázquez and Councilwoman Gail Brewer, Katie Couric, Elisabeth Rohm and Vera Wang.

Co-chairs of the event were Kenneth I. Chenault, Chairman & CEO of American Express; Richard S. Fuld, Jr., Chairman & CEO of Lehman Brothers; Shelly Lazarus, Chairman & CEO of Ogilvy & Mather Worldwide; Henry M. Paulson, Jr., Chairman & CEO of Goldman Sachs Group; and Dr. Michael A. Stocker, President & CEO of Empire Blue Cross Blue Shield.

The celebration, which included silent and live auctions, raised more than $2.3 million for the American Red Cross in Greater New York.

More Photos:

ARC/GNY Chairman William Gray welcomes the 750 guests to the Centennial Celebration in the World Financial Center Winter Garden. (Photo: Ellen Wallop)

Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg praises the Red Cross for a century of service to New York City, responding to thousands of disasters large and small.
(Photo: Ellen Wallop)

Comedian Jon Stewart of "The Daily Show” introduces Honoree William J. Clinton. (Photo: Ellen Wallop)

Former President Clinton speaks of how individuals and non-government organizations, like his Clinton Foundation and the American Red Cross, can bring about significant change without relying solely on government support. (Photo: Ellen Wallop)

John Hays, Deputy Chairman of Christie's auction house conducted a spirited live auction. Here he takes bids for a pinball machine signed by cast members of HBO"s “Sopranos.” (Photo: Ellen Wallop)

Jazz trumpeter Chris Botti performs for guests. (Photo: Ellen Wallop)