2021 Basil Paterson Fundraiser Videos
The 2021 fundraiser, held on April 29, raised over $750,000 to support the educational aspirations of home care workers—putting the total raised since the scholarship’s inception to over $4 million. The ceremony, which was held virtually, featured actor and activist Danny Glover as emcee and honored Airbnb CEO and co-founder Brian Chesky. The ceremony also featured two Basil Paterson Scholarship Scholars, Florence Eddie and Dalia Barbos, along with remarks from George Gresham, Marc Kramer, Governor David Paterson, Faith Wiggins and Sandi Vito.
Opening Remarks: The Importance of Home Care Workers During the Pandemic
Actor Danny Glover, who was the emcee for the 2021 Basil Paterson Scholarship Fundraiser, opens the ceremony with remarks about the essential role home care workers play in the healthcare system and their heroic contributions during the coronavirus pandemic.
The Impact of the Scholarship
Sandi Vito, the Executive Director of the 1199SEIU Training and Employment Funds, provides updates on the 2021 fundraising efforts. She also speaks about the impact donor contributions have on the lives of the scholarship winners.
The Life and Legacy of Basil Alexander Paterson
Danny Glover, actor, and George Gresham, President of 1199SEIU United Healthcare Workers East, introduce a video about Basil Paterson’s life and legacy.
Basil Paterson Scholar, Florence Eddie
Basil Paterson Scholar Florence Eddie speaks about how the Basil Paterson Scholarship helped her in her journey to become a registered nurse. She is introduced by Marc Kramer, President of the League of Voluntary Hospitals and Homes and co-chair of the Fundraiser’s host committee.
Basil Paterson Scholar, Dalia Barbos
Basil Paterson Scholar Dalia Barbos speaks about the impact the Basil Paterson Scholarship has had on her life. She is introduced by Faith Wiggins, Director of the 1199SEIU Home Care Industry Education Fund and Director of Long Term Care for the 1199SEIU Training and Employment Funds.
Governor David Paterson
Governor David Paterson, son of Basil Paterson, shares several touching—and amusing—stories about his father. He is introduced by Faith Wiggins, Director of the 1199SEIU Home Care Industry Education Fund.
The Milliman Scholarship
The employees of Milliman pooled $150,000 and contributed it to the 2021 Fundraiser. The money was donated as a tribute to Mitra Behroozi, who retired in 2021 as Executive Director of the 1199SEIU Benefit and Pension Funds. Susan Taranto, Principal and Consulting Actuary for Milliman, speaks on behalf of the Milliman employees and honors Ms. Behroozi’s 17 years of service to the Benefit and Pension Funds.
Fireside Chat
2021 Honoree Brian Chesky, CEO and Co-founder of Airbnb Inc., has a conversation with Danny Glover about Airbnb’s efforts to help healthcare workers during the pandemic and the critical role essential workers play in our lives.