On April 24, 2025, NYU Stern hosted the 45th Annual Haskins Giving Society Award Dinner at Cipriani 25 Broadway, an event that welcomed more than 400 alumni, donors, and friends of the School for an evening of celebration and gratitude. This year's gala honored two exceptional members of the Stern community: Bruce Berger (BS ’66), recipient of the Charles Waldo Haskins Award, and Tony Watkins (MBA ’11), inaugural recipient of the NYU Stern Torchbearer Award.

The evening's program, led by Interim Dean J.P. Eggers, recognized the extraordinary generosity and leadership of Haskins Giving Society members, whose contributions play a pivotal role in the School's mission and global impact, especially as the School celebrates its 125th anniversary. He was joined by NYU Provost Gigi Dopico, who reflected on the enduring impact of the Haskins community in advancing NYU’s founding vision of access and opportunity—particularly through generous support for student scholarships—a commitment that has guided the University since it first opened its doors in 1831.

Interim Dean J.P. Eggers (center) with Haskins honorees, Bruce Berger (BS ‘66) (left) and Tony Watkins (MBA ’11) (right)

The evening paid tribute to Bruce Berger, a certified business mentor with SCORE (Service Corps of Retired Executives) and a Certified Public Accountant who was the Founder and President of Sutton Group Services Inc. Bruce now serves as a Trustee Associate on the NYU Board of Trustees and an advisor to the NYU Violet Leadership Circle. Bruce's commitment to strengthening the Stern community and creating opportunities for future generations through philanthropy exemplifies the spirit of the Haskins Giving Society. “To hear Bruce tell it, ‘NYU made my life,’” said Eggers during the presentation of the Haskins Award. “And anyone who knows Bruce knows he has spent a lifetime paying that gift forward.”

Bruce Berger (BS ’66) accepts the Haskins award

A longtime advocate, connector, and champion of the Stern community, Bruce has devoted decades of service to the University since his graduation in 1966. A scholarship recipient himself, Bruce rallied his Phi Epsilon Pi fraternity brothers to establish the Phi Epsilon Pi Scholarship in support of first-generation students from Metro-New York. The group has also named a classroom in Stern’s Kaufman Management Center.

The School also recognized Tony Watkins, director of Global Partnerships at Google and Chair of the NYU Stern Alumni Council, as the inaugural recipient of the NYU Stern Torchbearer Award. Tony’s tireless commitment to the School—from mentoring students and supporting career services, to leading digital engagement initiatives and inspiring alumni giving—earned him the Torchbearer Award as a rising star in the School’s volunteer leadership community. In his remarks, Dean Eggers called Tony a “bright, steady, guiding force” within the community. A video tribute and heartfelt speech from Tony capped off the moment, followed by an announcement that he will join the NYU Stern Executive Board in the fall.

Tony Watkins (MBA ’11) accepts the inaugural Torchbearer award

The evening concluded with a celebratory toast led by Dean Eggers in honor of NYU Stern’s 125th anniversary. As he noted in his closing remarks, “Stern’s greatest strength has always been its people. Tonight, we celebrate the individuals who continue to make this community exceptional.”

 Watch the tribute videos from the Haskins Award Dinner:

Tony Watkins (MBA ’11) Tribute Video

A rising leader in the Stern alumni community, Tony has inspired countless students and alumni through his dedication to mentorship, digital engagement, and alumni giving. In this tribute video, we celebrate Tony’s extraordinary impact and welcome him to the NYU Stern Executive Board.
WATCH THE VIDEO

Bruce Berger (BS ’66) Tribute Video

From founding the Phi Epsilon Pi Legacy Scholarship to serving on the NYU Board of Trustees, Bruce’s generosity and leadership continue to open doors for future generations of Stern students. Watch his acceptance and hear why “NYU made his life”—and how he’s paying it forward.
WATCH THE VIDEO

Photo Album

See more photos from the event.
VIEW THE ALBUM