HapPENNings
pg. 8...NY Knicks Tickets pg. 10...Main Dining Room Restoration pg. 14...Holiday Events Read more inside!
SEPTEMBER 2026 Front Desk 212-403-6533
Banquets & Catering 212-403-6619
Membership 212-403-6627
Programs 212-403-6625
Main Dining Room 212-403-6628
Grill Room 212-403-6631
Palestra Fitness Center 212-403-6623
30 West 44th Street, New York, New York 10036 | www.pennclubny.org Produced By: Maria Espichan, Program & Communications Manager
General Manager's Letter Dear Penn Club Members, As we move into September, I'm thrilled to share the momentum building at The Penn Club this fall. Our private event calendar is nearly booked for the season, a wonderful testament to how our members and outside groups alike have come to love hosting here. That said, we are now accepting holiday bookings, and I encourage you to reserve your date soon to take advantage of our beautifully renovated spaces, including the Spruce Suite, renovated in 2023, and the Tarnopol Room, renovated in 2025. We've also just launched a new catering menu, so be sure to take a look inside this issue for a preview of what our culinary team has been busy creating. If you're planning a private event, don't forget you can also book overnight room stays in advance for your guests. Speaking of milestones, I'm delighted to announce that our multi-year overnight room restoration project has been completed, with the 5th and 6th floors finished this past summer. A special thank you to Lynne Beyer, principal of the Studio @ Westmoreland Farm™, whose talented eye also guided the beautiful restorations of the Benjamin Franklin Library and the Tarnopol Room - her work has truly elevated the Club's timeless character. I'm equally excited to welcome you back to a beautifully refreshed Main Dining Room! Phase 1 of this renovation brought stunning enhancements throughout the space, including restored lighting and raised chandeliers, highlighted murals that showcase the room's timeless artistry, and pre-wiring for elegant pixie lighting for future events. We've also added a brand-new dance floor, a dedicated maître d' station, and a wine closet, along with updated air conditioning and striking new marble tabletops. A new centerpiece table now anchors the room, ready to showcase beautiful floral arrangements for your dining experience. We can't wait for you to see it in person! Of course, no summer at The Penn Club would be complete without our US Open ticket program, a cherished member benefit that once again gave many of you access to some of the best seats at the tournament. As that excitement carries into September, the fun continues here at the Club, join us in the Library for a Honey Deuce, with mocktail versions also available, through September 11th. This month's programming is equally meaningful, as we mark the 25th anniversary of September 11th with a moving discussion on FDNY leadership through crisis. We'll also welcome back the always sold-out tenor Maxwell Levy for another evening of live music and fine dining, alongside a full slate of engaging lectures and social gatherings to keep you connected throughout the fall. Finally, I want to extend a warm welcome to our newest members, the Class of 2026, all 575 of whom have already begun to make their mark on our community. And a heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined us for Thursday Night Cocktails this summer, the turnout and energy made it one of our most memorable seasons yet! Warm regards,
Kevin O'Brien General Manager/COO
September 2026
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Upcoming Events September at The Penn Club welcomes fall with reflection, culture, and connection! Join us for a discussion marking the 25th anniversary of 9/11 with Rising from Ground Zero, exploring FDNY leadership through crisis and transformation. Design enthusiasts can gain wisdom from AD100 legends Bunny Williams and Elizabeth Lawrence, while music lovers discover the surprising bond between Bob Dylan and The Beatles with author Jim Windolf. Our Live & Dine dinner returns with tenor Maxwell Levy, and art aficionados can explore Chelsea's best fall shows with Efren Olivares. Professionals can sharpen their edge at Own the Room, explore fractional leadership strategies, and connect at our new Young Professionals' Career Development Luncheon. From NYFW debriefs to Italian conversation over dinner, September offers something for every interest as we settle into the rhythm of fall. Your feedback enhances our programming each season. After attending an event, please share your thoughts through our survey to help shape future offerings. Registration is seamless through The Penn Club app, available on both the App Store and Google Play. For any questions or technical assistance, our team is here to help at 212-403-6625 or events@pennclubny.org. Please Note: All prices indicated with "++" include additional tax and gratuity. Cancellation Policy: Due to financial obligations, cancellation requests must be received 48 hours prior to the event unless otherwise noted. Some events require longer notice periods—please review the specific cancellation policy in the app before registering. Cancellations after the stated window and no-shows will be charged the full event cost.
LECTURES & SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS Rising from Ground Zero: 9/11 and the FDNY's Path through Crisis to Transformation Wednesday, September 2nd • 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM $15++ Members • $25++ Guests
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As we mark the 25 anniversary of 9/11, join us for a compelling discussion of Rising from Ground Zero, an oral history sharing firsthand accounts from FDNY leaders who guided the department through and beyond that day. Drawing on interviews that often lasted two hours or longer, the book offers powerful lessons in leading through crisis, fostering organizational transformation, and supporting healing in the aftermath. The conversation will be moderated by co-author Paul Brown, a retired FDNY Fire Captain and third-generation firefighter, with author Gregory Shea, PhD, Senior Fellow at Wharton's Center for Leadership and Change Management.
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Wired on Wall Street: The Inside Story of Tipper X Tuesday, September 8th • 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM $15++ Members • $25++ Guests
Tom Hardin (W’99) was a young Wharton graduate and hedge fund analyst when he became the FBI's key cooperating witness in Operation Perfect Hedge, secretly wearing a wire in the largest insider trading investigation in a generation. Join us as Tom takes the audience inside the psychology of his own ethical failure and shares the behavioral frameworks that explain how smart, wellintentioned people make catastrophic choices — and what organizations can do to prevent it. Drawing from his bestselling memoir Wired on Wall Street (Wiley, 2026), this fireside chat will be moderated by criminal defense attorney Elizabeth Kelley.
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Upcoming Events Where the Music Takes You: Travel & Culture with Rick Perdian Wednesday, September 9th • 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM $15++ Members • $25++ Guests
Join Penn Club member Rick Perdian as he explores how unforgettable musical experiences in grand opera houses, historic churches, and concert halls can transform the way we travel. Since 2019, Rick has curated and led ten musicfocused tours around the world, from Iceland to Japan. He'll share highlights from Thiré, France; Canterbury, England; and Warsaw, Poland, proving that extraordinary musical experiences are often more accessible than you'd think. Plus, one lucky attendee will win the chance to join Rick at a New York performance of their choice! The Art of Decoration: A Conversation on Design with Bunny Williams and Elizabeth Lawrence Monday, September 14th • 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM $15++ Members • $25++ Guests
ook, Decoration, Bunny and Elizabeth share their combined decades of design wisdom, offering an intimate look at their approach to crafting memorable, and often unexpected, spaces, one room at a time. Join them for a masterclass in interiors, as they open the doors to new projects around the country, sharing practical guidance and insight on cultivating a discerning eye, finding inspiration through travel and discovery, and embracing patience over one-and-done decorating. Own the Room: Speak with Confidence, Lead with Impact Wednesday, September 16th • 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM $15++ Members • $25++ Guests
Join us for an interactive evening featuring Clara Francesca, offering practical tools to elevate confidence, clarity, and presence in any professional setting. Through a dynamic fireside conversation followed by a guided live workshop, members will learn techniques to reduce speaking anxiety, strengthen vocal authority, and communicate with greater impact, skills you can start using immediately, no matter your career stage.
Discover more
on The Penn Club app
For Bunny Williams and Elizabeth Lawrence, the partners behind the celebrated interior design firm Williams Lawrence, beautifully designed rooms are about more than scale, proportion, and spontaneity—they are about storytelling. The AD100 “Hall of Fame” and Elle Decor “AList” team has long been known for creating interiors that feel personal, layered, and enduring. Now, in their new b-
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Carry the Club in the palm of your hand! Secure reservations for Club events, seek letters of introduction, pre-order from The Grill, and enjoy numerous other features. Stay seamlessly connected with the Penn Club and fellow members, even when you're away from the Club. Accessible on both iOS and Android platforms.
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Upcoming Events Where The Music Had To Go: Jim Windolf on Bob Dylan and The Beatles Monday, September 28th • 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM $15++ Members • $25++ Guests
le of psychological safety and neurodiversity in leadership, this keynote offers both a timely and enduring message: if you want to be a better leader, be a better human.
NETWORKING Penn Networking Society Fall Social Tuesday, September 1st • 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM $20++ Entry • $30++ Entry & 2 Drink Tickets
Join journalist and author Jim Windolf for a discussion of his newly released book, Where the Music Had to Go: How Bob Dylan and the Beatles Changed Each Other, and the World. Drawing on original research and vivid backstage anecdotes, Windolf explores the surprising creative exchange between these two towering figures, one that reshaped not only their music, but the direction of popular culture. His book has already received a favorable review in The Wall Street Journal and will be featured as a cover story in The New York Times Book Review. Leading at the Edge: Brain Science, Big Change, and What Still Makes Us Human in the Age of AI Wednesday, September 30th • 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM $15++ Members • $25++ Guests
As AI accelerates the pace of work and disruption, what still gives human leaders an edge? Michael Platt, the James S. Riepe University Professor at Penn with appointments across Medicine, Arts & Sciences, and Wharton, draws on neuroscience and psychology to argue that the future belongs to those who remain deeply human while using new tools. From decision-making under pressure to the ro-
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Kick off the fall season with the Penn Networking Society for an evening of meaningful connections and great conversation. Meet fellow members working across business, compliance, legal, fashion, and real estate, whether you're just starting your career or bring decades of experience. Open to all ages and industries! In-Person Hedge Fund & Bulls and Bears Mixer Tuesday, September 15th • 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM $15++ Members
Hedge Fund & Bulls and Bears Society returns for another evening of markets, macro, and meaningful connections over wine, and cheese. Whether you're deep in the markets professionally or just market-curious, come trade perspectives and build relationships with a sharp, engaged crowd!
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Upcoming Events Fashion Society: NYFW Debrief Discussion & Dinner Wednesday, September 16th • 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM À La Carte • Minimum Spend of $30++
New York Fashion Week has come and gone — now let's talk about it. Join The Penn Club Fashion Society for an informal dinner and debrief recapping the highlights, surprises, and standout moments of this season's NYFW. Whether you attended shows or followed along from afar, come share your observations in a relaxed, conversationdriven evening. Senior Social Luncheon: Tax and Retirement Planning for Life's Transitions Thursday, September 17th • 12:30 PM – 2:30 PM $60 Per Penn Club Member
Our monthly luncheon series for members 65 and above welcomes Nancy Goldfarb, CFP®, CPA/PFS, for a practical presentation on tax planning for retirement and other major life transitions, including Roth IRA eligibility, multi-state residency considerations, and coordinating decisions with estate attorneys and financial advisors. Enjoy a delicious buffet lunch while gaining a clearer framework for informed decision-making. For general educational purposes only.
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Leads Luncheon Friday, September 25th • 12:30 PM – 2:00 PM $60 Per Penn Club Member
Accelerate your business growth through our carefully curated monthly luncheon, open to Penn Club and Wharton Club NY members. This exclusive group maintains a one-per-discipline structure, ensuring noncompetitive collaboration for all participants. Co-facilitated by Carol Vinelli and Frieda Tahan Aboyoun of Clarewood Consulting. All new registrants must complete a brief professional review prior to joining; registration closes Monday at 3:00 PM prior to each luncheon, no walk-ins permitted. The Rise of Fractional Leadership Tuesday, September 29th • 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM $20++ Entry • $30++ Entry & 2 Drink Tickets
Fractional C-Suite. Fractional Leadership. You've seen the topic everywhere, but what does it actually mean, and why has it become so integral to companies in 2026? Join a panel of fractional CMO, COO, and CFO leaders, Stephanie Grayson (C’92), Kristine Potter, Rachel Bassini (W'05, WG'12), and Salvatore Tirabassi (GEN'98, WG'99), as they unpack how fractional leadership gives businesses access to senior-level expertise and specialized skill without a full-time commitment.
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Upcoming Events
DINING & CULTURAL Escape the City: Inter-Club Trip to the Culinary Institute of America Friday, September 18th • 10:15 AM - 1:00 PM $75++ Per Person
Chef Michael Bourquin, paired with unlimited wine, while opera singer Maxwell Levy (C'18) performs live throughout your dinner. Spots are limited, so reserve early for this special evening. A Tavola: Italian Table Friday, September 25th • 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM À La Carte • Minimum Spend of $20++
Members are invited for a private tour and luncheon at the world's premier culinary college, the CIA. The Penn Club's own Executive Chef Michael Bourquin, a CIA graduate, will join members for a learn, taste, and tour experience of the 170-acre campus, followed by a group lunch at the American Bounty Restaurant. Some of the world's most famous chefs were educated at the CIA, including Anthony Bourdain, David Burke, Todd English, Cat Cora, Michael Chiarello, and Grant Achatz. Lunch features pumpkin apple soup, sautéed chicken breast, and warm chocolate tart, with coffee, tea, and iced tea included. Live & Dine: Opera Singer, Maxwell Levy Friday, September 18th • 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM $100++ Per Person
Join us for an evening of exceptional food and live entertainment, a member favorite event that sells out year after year. Enjoy a delicious 3-course meal from Executive
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Pull up a chair at our Tavola Italiana in The Grill Room for a relaxed evening of Italian conversation — no grammar drills, no flashcards, no judgment. Whether you're a proficient speaker or a curious beginner, come practice the language and explore Italian culture through the words that bring it to life.
ARTS & ACTIVITIES All-New Chelsea Fall Art Gallery Walks Saturday, September 19th • 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM Saturday, September 26th • 3:30 PM – 5:30 PM $45 Per Member • $55 Per Guest
Join fellow Penn Club members for one of two engaging art gallery walks through Chelsea's best current shows, led
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Upcoming Events by Efren Olivares (W'88), founder of Look@NYArt. Explore a museum-quality exhibition of Lynda Benglis sculptures spanning five decades, alongside a superb Brice Marden retrospective at Gagosian featuring works on loan from major institutions. The walk covers reasonable distances of no more than 8 to 10 blocks.
origins stretching back 5,000 years! Whether you're a longtime player or have always wanted to learn, join us in the Grill Room for an evening of friendly competition and camaraderie, held the last Thursday of every month.
TriBeCa: Chelsea's Rival as a Contemporary Art Hub Wednesday, September 23rd • 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM $40 Per Penn Club Member • $50 Per Guest
This lively downtown neighborhood is constantly expanding and evolving. On this tour we'll discover exciting art galleries, including several from abroad that have opened branches in NYC. Learn why well-known galleries have relocated from 57th Street and Chelsea to TriBeCa, with more expected to follow. Our guide, Vida Schreibman, an active Penn Club member with an M.A. in Visual Arts Administration from NYU, has been adjunct faculty at NYU's Steinhardt School since 1992 and previously managed contemporary art galleries in both NYC and Miami. Backgammon Night Thursday, September 24th • 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM À La Carte • Minimum Spend of $10++
Backgammon is the oldest board game known to man, with
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Young Alumni Committee
YAC
YOUNG ALUMNI COMMITTEE
A Note from Nathan Chiu (C’20, W’20), Young Alumni Committee Chair
Wednesday, September 2nd • 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM Bryant Park Yoga x Young Alumni Committee Complimentary Event
What a summer it's been! Thank you to everyone who came out to support Thursday Night Cocktails this season—your energy made our terrace happy hours truly special. As we head into fall, we've got a lot to look forward to: join us for a Bryant Park Yoga meetup this Wednesday, September 2nd, Making It in Manhattan Panel Discussion on October 13th, and our Friendsgivingthemed social on November 16th. We're also thrilled to welcome the Class of 2026 to the Penn Club family! If you're interested in getting more involved with the Young Alumni Committee, don't hesitate to reach out, we'd love to have you.
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Tuesday, October 13 • 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM Making It in Manhattan: Building Life & Career
For any questions or inquiries about attending or joining the Young Alumni Committee, please email events@pennclubny.org or call 212-403-6625.
$15++ Members • $25++ Guests
Monday, November 16th • 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM Friendsgiving Social $20++ Entry Includes Lite Bites or $30++ Includes Lite Bites & Two Drink Tickets Sign up on The Penn Club app or email events@pennclubny.org for more information.
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Main Dining Room Restoration
Behind the Curtain: Restoring the Main Dining Room After 32 years hidden from view, the Main Dining Room's original architectural window has been uncovered, along with countless other details waiting to be rediscovered. As Phase 1 of our renovation unfolds, we sat down with Lynne Beyer, Principal Interior Designer of the Studio @ Westmoreland Farm™, the visionary behind the restorations of the Benjamin Franklin Library, the Tarnopol Room, and our guest rooms, to talk hidden history, design philosophy, and what's still to come. Q: You mentioned uncovering the main window for the first time in 32 years—what was that moment like when you first saw it revealed? A: Thrilled! Since I first set foot in this iconic club in 2017, I knew that glorious window would shine on its own and needed no adornment. Without drapery, it allows more natural light into the dining room, and views of the beautiful front stone corbels, club flags, and other historic architecture beyond. Q: Can you tell us about the inscription on the seal above the main cabinetry? What does it say, and what's its history within The Penn Club? A: The beautiful carving in the seal above the main cabinetry is in Latin and speaks to the founding of the University of Pennsylvania and its founding date of 1742. The new design will allow better lighting onto the seal, and what is to come above it. Q: What has been the most surprising discovery during the Main Dining Room renovation so far? A: There are so many beautiful details in the room that are being unearthed as we explore and mock-up new lighting enhancements. The ceiling medallions above the historic chandeliers are beautifully gilded with different metallic tones, but it's very hard to see without uplighting. This will be remedied with special but hidden lighting incorporated into these chandeliers, as at the Frick Museum where I saw this application done so very well.
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Main Dining Room Restoration Q: How do you approach honoring a space's history while still bringing it into the present for modern use? A: I truly love to dig into the history of spaces, architecture, applied arts, and design. I study current behaviors in rooms as they are being used, collaborate with leadership of the projects, staff, and the people who will be using the spaces, and then design the very best quality products that serve an elegant environment while maintaining the standards of care and durability needed.
Q: What can members look forward to seeing when the full Main Dining Room renovation is complete? A: Enhanced lighting! The colors and details of the beautiful murals, the colors of the stained glass, the beauty of the original oak wood throughout, the gilded moldings and capitals, and the richness of the new colors to come for walls and flooring will all be so much more alive with the new lighting. I have designed custom Axminster carpet, elegant wall finishes and drapery, and a color scheme inspired by the murals and the Penn standard. There will be a series of new art in the Provost area that features artists from Philadelphia and New York, in tandem with the era of the building. The new dance floor will showcase a beautiful center table with a gilded dolphin base, honoring the family crest of Benjamin Franklin and The Penn Club, and drapery at the staircase and balcony will help shield sound traveling from the room to the Club's other areas.
Q: You've now worked on several iconic spaces at The Penn Club, the Library, the Tarnopol Room, the guest rooms, and now the Main Dining Room. What does it mean to you to help preserve and reveal the Club's architectural history? It is truly such an honor and the pinnacle of my work! I pinch myself every time I get to design here! After almost 40 years in my chosen career, I still have great passion for my work. The team here is bar none the best in the business, and a true pleasure to serve and work alongside. My mother, who a highly regarded interior designer as well, advised me to always use restraint, honor architecture, and learn not to 'gild the lily.' Learning what NOT to add, overdo, and using good design principles in all styles is critical to my work, and I strive to edit to the behaviors and beauty with great joy.
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Kite & Key Bar
Kite & Key Bar
in the Benjamin Franklin Library Tucked within the timeless elegance of the Benjamin Franklin Library, the Kite & Key Bar offers members a warm, inviting setting to unwind with expertly crafted cocktails. Whether you're catching up with friends or settling in for a quiet evening, this beloved corner of the Club sets the perfect scene for seasonal sipping.
HONEY DEUCE SEASON As US Open excitement sweeps through the city, members are toasting the tournament with our signature Honey Deuce, complete with fresh melon balls and refreshing berry vodka lemonade. Mocktail versions are also available for those looking to enjoy the festivities alcohol-free. Cheers to another unforgettable tennis season!
FRANKLIN’S FALL SPIRITS As summer fades and cooler days arrive, our bar team has crafted a lineup of seasonal cocktails perfect for cozying up in the Library. From spiced classics to pumpkin-forward favorites, there's a drink for every autumn mood.
HOURS OF OPERATION: MONDAY - FRIDAY 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM
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Thanksgiving Buffet
You Are Invited To
THANKSGIVING
THURSDAY
O
V EMBE
26
R
N
Buffet Brunch 11:00AM - 4:00PM
2026 ADULTS $105++ • CHILDREN (AGES 6-12) $65++ UNDER 6 FREE
FEATURING COLD BUFFET SELECTIONS
HOT BUFFET SELECTIONS
DESSERT BUFFET
Seafood Display Fall Harvest Salad Mediterranean Farro Salad Roasted Golden Beet Salad
Roasted Vermon Turkey Pumpkin Mac ‘n’ Cheese Filet of Beef Carved to Order Pan Seared Salmon
Mini Pecan Pie Pumpkin Pie Apple Pie Seasonal Pastries, Tarts & Cookies
AND MUCH MORE!!!
For Reservations, Please Call Tony Kontos at 212-403-6628. All Reservations are Considered Final on November 19, 2026. Following this date, full payment per person becomes obligatory. Kindly be aware that each reservation allows for a maximum seating duration of two hours.
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Jingle Bell Banquet
TO RSVP SIGN UP ON THE PENN CLUB APP OR EMAIL EVENTS@PENNCLUBNY.ORG
DEC. 4TH • 6 PM $25++ BENJAMIN FRANKLIN LIBRARY $70++ GRILL ROOM $100++ MDR
BRUNCH WITH
Santa
DEC. 5TH • 11 AM OR 1 PM $70++ ADULTS • $35++ CHILDREN (AGES 6-12) • UNDER 6, FREE
LATKES &
Lights
DEC. 7TH • 6 PM $60++ ADULTS • $30++ CHILDREN (AGES 6-12) • UNDER 6, FREE
All Members’
Holiday Party DEC. 14TH • 6 PM COMPLIMENTARY FOR PENN CLUB MEMBERS ONLY REGISTRATION OPENS OCT. 1ST
All-Ivy
Mistletoe Mixer DEC. 16TH • 7 PM $100++ MEMBERS • $105++ GUESTS
NEW YEAR
Celebration DEC. 31ST • 7:30 PM $265++ PER PERSON
Member Spotlight Our Member Spotlight continues to shine a light on the incredible individuals at the heart of The Penn Club. Whether you'd like to share your own journey or celebrate a fellow member, we invite you to be part of this feature. Reach out to events@pennclubny.org to get involved.
Member Spotlight: Kristine Potter, Penn Club Member Since 2024 Q: What motivated you to become a member of The Penn Club? A: My husband and I had been members of another private members’ club, and when it closed, we were invited to join The Penn Club. What began as a natural transition has become so much more, particularly through my involvement with the Penn Club Women in Business Society. I’ve found a remarkable community of women who genuinely support one another — sharing ideas, experiences, introductions and opportunities, but also friendship and camaraderie. I’ve learned so much from the women I’ve met and have made both meaningful professional connections and wonderful friendships. That sense of community and willingness to help one another is what has made my Penn Club membership especially meaningful to me. of fractional leadership. The Club also introduced Q: Can you share a bit about your me to Stephanie Grayson, a fractional content background and professional executive, and together we developed the idea for journey? our September panel. These are the kinds of A: I've spent my career in marketing, both in friendships and opportunities that make The Penn corporate leadership roles and as an entrepreneur. Club special. When I left corporate, my plan was to consult and eventually build an agency—but most clients Q: Are there any upcoming events or didn't need an agency, they needed senior projects you're excited about? marketing leadership paired with specialized A: I'm looking forward to our panel, The Rise of talent. Organically, I built a fractional marketing Fractional Leadership: What Is It, and How Does It model without ever setting out to create one. That Offer Your Business a Strategic Advantage? We'll experience led me to launch agent.m, where I explore how companies access leadership and serve as a fractional CMO, bringing strategy and specialized talent to grow and scale effectively— execution together as an embedded extension of and where the fractional model truly works, and our clients' businesses. where it doesn't. Done well, it means becoming
Q: Can you highlight a memorable experience or event from your time as a member?
A: One experience that stands out began at a Penn Club Leads Luncheon, where I met Rachel, a fractional COO, and Sal, a fractional CFO. Our conversation about our businesses quickly expanded into a broader discussion about the rise
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embedded in the business and accountable for results, not just consulting with a new name.
Q: Favorite Quote? A: "The obstacle is the path." If you spot Kristine at the Club, don't miss the chance to say hello, or better yet, join us for our upcoming program on Tuesday, September 29th!
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MEMBER REFER A MEMBER
Membership
SPECIAL OFFER
$100 HOUSE CREDIT
The Penn Club is continuing our Member Refer a Member Promotion. With this offer, you and the referred member will both receive a generous $100 house credit when they join paying dues and an initiation fee. And the best part - there's no limit to the number of referrals and house credits you can receive, so what are you waiting for? Start referring now and enjoy the amazing benefits! For more information, please contact the membership office at membership@pennclubny.org or call 212.403.6627
Reciprocal Club Spotlight Anglo-German Club
SPECIAL OFFER
Members of The Penn Club enjoy exclusive access to 180+ reciprocal clubs throughout the world. Traveling to Hamburg, Germany anytime soon? Why not visit our reciprocal club, the Anglo-German Club! Located at Harvestehuder Weg in one of Hamburg's most prestigious neighborhoods along the Alster Lake, the AngloGerman Club offers members a refined blend of British and German club traditions. With elegant dining, sophisticated social spaces, and warm hospitality, the club provides the perfect setting for both business and leisure. And with Oktoberfest festivities in full swing this September, there's no better time to raise a stein and experience German hospitality firsthand. Whether you're visiting for meetings or simply soaking in Hamburg's charm, the Anglo-German Club offers Penn Club members a welcoming home away from home. When looking to travel to a reciprocal club, please contact the club of interest first to ensure availability. Once confirmed, you may request a letter of introduction on The Penn Club app!
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Holiday Bookings
Tis the Season EAT • DRINK • MAKE MEMORIES
The Penn Club offers a complete holiday menu, open bar options, and much more to ensure you receive the kind of caring, personalized service that will be perfect for you holiday party! FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT DIRECTOR OF CATERING AT: 212-403-6620 OR BNEVELS@PENNCLUBNY.ORG
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The Penn Club App
Download The Penn Club Mobile App Today!
Scan here or Search “Penn Club” in your app store
Your credentials to login are: Username: Member # Password: last name (Lowercase)
Member Login Example Username: 01234 Password: smith
Be sure to enable location services & push notifications for an elevated service experience and stay connected with The Penn Club! September 2026
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Societies
Penn Club Societies Participation in Societies is one of the many benefits of membership at The Penn Club. This is exclusively for Penn Club Members only. To ensure a quicker response from society chairs, please copy Maria Espichan, mespichan@pennclubny.org
AEC Salon Intraclub The AEC Salon is the reinvention and reinterpretation of the Design and Construction Intraclub. The “Salon” is a place intended for those involved or interested in the built environment to share ideas across disciplines and socialize, rather than a “professional networking” group. Case subjects for discussion include environmental standards like LEED and Passive House, NYC’s Local Law 11, or the upcoming and controversial Local Law 97. Don’t know what those are? Join our diverse group of members who are design, real estate, engineering, and construction professionals for a drink and find out! You’ve never seen so many professional acronyms – but it doesn’t matter if you don’t have them. If you’re interested in the built environment, anything goes. For more information, Christopher T. clasala@draftworkllc.com
please LaSala
contact at
Chess Society The Chess Society welcomes chess enthusiasts of all levels, from beginners picking up the game for the first time to experienced players looking to sharpen their skills. Members can expect opportunities to play, learn, and connect with fellow chess enthusiasts in an inclusive environment that celebrates the timeless appeal of this strategic game.
Bulls & Bears and Hedge Fund Investment Club Founded in 2006, the mission of the Penn Club Hedge Fund/Bulls and Bears Society is to foster an engaging and collaborative environment where members discuss the global markets, share key insights on investment trends, and reflect on and analyze recent market events. By providing discussion points to guide conversations, we aim to share financial knowledge, encourage thoughtful dialogue, and promote networking within our society and the Penn Club community. The club meets the 2nd Tuesday of every month at 5:30 p.m. For more information, contact Dorothy Nickelson at dorothynickelson@comcast.net
Fashion Society
The Society will foster a vibrant community for fashion enthusiasts, students, professionals, and affiliates to explore fashion as art, culture, business, and social commentary. It will offer versatile events and regular meetings—ranging from talks and panel discussions to styling sessions, and exclusive showroom/artist collaborations, designed to engage For more information, contact Fabrice Fiol at members across interests and disciplines in Fashion. fabrice.fiol@gmail.com
Backgammon Society Backgammon is the oldest board game known to man, with origins stretching back 5,000 years! For those who love it as well as folks who’ve always wanted to try, all are welcome to join us for the best competition and camaraderie a simple strategic dice game can offer! For more information, contact James McNamara at bvhdoc@sbcglobal.net
Entrepreneurship, Leadership & Technology Society What does it mean to be a leader in the 21st century? The Entrepreneurship, Leadership and Technology (ELT) Society is a community where aspiring and established leaders, technologists, and entrepreneurs can find their tribe. We meet monthly, alternating between on-site sessions at the Penn Club and virtual meetups. Our programming blends expert talks from distinguished professors, peer-to-peer idea sharing, and exclusive networking events. Whether you're seeking advice, a cofounder, or just stimulating conversation, the ELT Society provides the platform to connect and thrive. For more information, contact Arif Sufi, arifsufi@ape4.com
For more information, contact Maggie Delany at mdelany6@gmail.com
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at
Societies
Golf Society The Penn Club Golf is an active community of golfers, ranging from seasoned players to those new to the game, all connected through the Penn Club. Built on camaraderie and a genuine love for the sport, our society offers a space for members to come together over their shared interest in golf!
Women in Business Society
Founded in 2006, the Penn Club Women in Business Society is dedicated to fostering a supportive and empowering community for women professionals. We provide a space to engage in meaningful discussions on the challenges women face in business, while also facilitating introductions and promoting community. For more information, please contact Ana Samely Our members come from a wide range of industries in Maria at pennclubnygolf@gmail.com business and from non-profit organizations. We contribute to putting together Penn Club programs open to all, by organizing panels, workshops, and social events that encourage personal and professional growth. The club meets on the 4th Tuesday of every month at 6:00 p.m.
Film Society What do films mean to you? Memories of childhood and first dates, modern miracles of technology, cultural bellwethers? Or maybe you’re a filmmaker or a film investor or a film student. Whether you saw your first film in a theatre or on a screen you held in your hand, if you love cinema, the Film Society is for you. For further information, please contact Ed Hoffmeister at ejh1ejh1@msn.com
Travel Society Where would you like to visit next? Whether you're an armchair traveler or a seasoned one with many memorable journeys, please join us to discuss all manner of travel and to share advice & valuable resources and exchange ideas on future destinations. Along the way our lively conversations will traverse history, culture, cuisine, the arts, architecture & design and much more. What unites us is our love of adventure and in discovering new people & places, both near and far! For more information, please contact Sara Banerjee at sarabanerjee63@gmail.com
September 2026
For more information, contact Dorothy Nickelson at dorothynickelson@comcast.net
Wine Society The Penn Club Wine Society celebrates the art and enjoyment of wine through fellowship and education. Our group brings together both novice enthusiasts and experienced collectors to explore exceptional wines in an approachable setting. Through quarterly wine dinners and curated tastings, members share their passion while discovering new vintages and regions. From exploring the Club's cellar selections to learning about wine and food pairings, our focus is on creating memorable experiences that blend conviviality with appreciation.
The Penn Club Networking Society The Penn Club Networking Society (PennNet) provides a dynamic platform for professionals and entrepreneurs to expand their network and forge valuable relationships in a social and engaging environment. We offer opportunities to connect with new people, collaborate on projects, and enhance career prospects. PennNet welcomes anyone seeking meaningful connections and professional growth! For more information, please contact Christine Rodriguez at arc1ann@gmail.com
The Pen Club "The Pen Club" at The Penn Club! The Penn Club is pleased to announce the founding of a society dedicated to the promotion and production of the written word. Simply put, we're a writer's club. All those who identify as wordsmiths are welcome: from published authors in all genres, to business and technical writers, to those who yearn to develop their own voices in this labor of love. In the age of AI, writing continues to be a most human activity that sustains us. Often a solitary process (even in a Google doc!), conversation in community highlights our humanity. For more information, please contact Fred Roden at frederick.roden@uconn.edu or Layla Bellisimo at lab9802@nyu.edu
For more information, please contact co-chairs: Michael Noonan at noonan.michael@gmail.com or Mark Jackson at mark@markgjackson.com
Theater Society Volunteer Service Society The Volunteer Service Club brings together members to participate in service-oriented activities that improve the New York City community once a month. For more information, contact Dean Hrozenchik at dhrozenchik.alpfa@gmail.com
The Penn Club Theatre Society brings together Broadway and off-Broadway enthusiasts for monthly gatherings, group show outings, and conversations with industry talent. Whether you're a lifelong theater devotee or simply curious about live performance, all are welcome to join the community! For more information, contact Ed Hoffmeister at ejh1ejh1@msn.com
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Societies
Penn Club Societies Our Societies have been busy all summer! From engaging discussions to festive celebrations, our members continue to connect, learn, and build community through shared interests. Here's a look back at some recent gatherings. Do you have an idea for a Penn Club special interest group and would like to lead it? Contact Club Program & Communications Manager, Maria Espichan at events@pennclubny.org to inquire!
Chess Society The Chess Society met in July for casual games and strategy discussions, including chess openings and the popular Sicilian Defense. Next Meeting: Wednesday, September 9th
Bulls & Bears and Hedge Fund Investment Society The Bulls & Bears and Hedge Fund Investment Society meets every 2nd Tuesday of the month via Zoom, and in-person quarterly! Next Meeting: Tuesday, September 15th
Fashion Society The Fashion Society met in August for an engaging discussion on the history of and opportunities within New York Fashion Week. Join us at our next meeting as we debrief and discuss the latest season over dinner! Next Meeting: Wednesday, September 16th
The “Pen” Club The "Pen" Club meets on the third Wednesday of each month, providing a supportive space for members to share their work, discuss craft, and connect with fellow writers. Next Meeting: Wednesday, September 16th
September 2026
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90-Day Calendar
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Penn Networking Society Fall Social Bryant Park Yoga x Young Alumni Committee
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Rising from Ground Zero: 9/11 & the FDNY
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Golf Society Meeting Wired on Wall Street: The Inside Story of Tipper X
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Where the Music Takes You: Travel & Culture
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Young Professionals' Career Development Luncheon
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The Art of Decoration: A Conversation on Design with Bunny Williams and Elizabeth Lawrence In-Person Hedge Fund & Bulls and Bears Society
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Own the Room: Speak with Confidence, Lead with Impact
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NYFW Debrief Discussion & Dinner
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Senior Social Lunch & Learn Escape the City - Tour & Lunch at CIA Live & Dine with Maxwell Levy (C’18) NYC Gallery Gems: Walking Tour Art Gallery Stroll with Vida Schreibman Backgammon Night Leads Luncheon A Tavola: Italian Table NYC Gallery Gems: Walking Art Tour The Rise of Fractional Leadership Leading at the Edge: Staying Human in the Age of AI
September 2026
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All-Ivy Oktoberfest at the Harvard Club An Evening of Short Films: Screening & Conversations Wine Society Presents: Calluna Reception Dinner & Show: Paranormal Activity NYC Gallery Gems: Walking Art Tour NYC Gallery Gems: Walking Art Tour Partisan Conflict and the 2026 Midterm Elections Making It in Manhattan: Building Life & Career Travel Society: The Dolomites & Ravenna, Italy Gotham by Gaslight: A Victorian True Crime Tour Leads Luncheon At Liberty: Life in Philadelphia During the Early Republic From Broadway to Carnegie Hall with Ted Sperling Winemaker Dinner: Cathiard & Château Smith Senior Social Lunch & Learn Edgar Allan Poe in Greenwich Village Art Gallery Stroll with Vida Schreibman PennNet: Costumes & Cocktails How AI Thinks: Patterns vs. Models Senior Luncheon Witches of Wall Street: A Walking Tour Young Professionals' Career Development Luncheon The Nightmare on 44th Street: All-Ivy Halloween
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Our Failed Attempt to Make English Easier to Spell Fashion Society: Winter Fashion Trends Christie's Auction House Visit Becoming You: Finding the Work You Were Born to Do Christie's Auction House Visit Christie's Auction House Visit Travel Society Program: Brazil, Argentina and Chile Leads Luncheon Young Alumni Friendsgiving Social Checkmate: How Chess Taught Machines to Think Taste of Penn Senior Luncheon Young Professionals' Career Development Luncheon NYC Gallery Gems: Walking Art Tour Thanksgiving Table Topics Mixer Thanksgiving Buffet Dinner
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Save The Date
Winemaker Dinner Series CATHIARD VINEYARD WINE DINNER
WITH FABIEN TEITGEN OF CHÂTEAU SMITH HAUT LAFITTE
WEDNESDAY
OCTOBER 21, 2026 6:00 PM Reception 6:30 PM Multi-Course Dinner & Pairing $155++ Per Person Experience the wines of a legendary Bordeaux estate and its Napa Valley heir. Join The Penn Club for an exclusive multi-course dinner showcasing wines from Château Smith Haut Lafitte and Cathiard Vineyard. The evening includes a welcome reception, followed by dinner and insights from Fabien Teitgen, Managing Director, agronomist, and oenologist of Château Smith Haut Lafitte.
Reservations are now open on The Penn Club app or email events@pennclubny.org
September 2026
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