10-05-2025
The Wallis Delivers: A Star-Studded Benefit Evening in Support of Wildfire Recovery
On Wednesday, April 30, 2025, the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts in Beverly Hills hosted The Wallis Delivers, a moving and elegant evening dedicated to supporting Los Angeles wildfire recovery efforts. Set amidst the architectural beauty of The Wallis and under the leadership of its Executive Director and CEO Robert van Leer, the event brought together influential figures from entertainment, finance, and philanthropy for an unforgettable night of giving evening was hosted by legendary actress, producer, and activist Jane Fonda, who brought grace and gravitas to the event. The spotlight shone brightest when Dominic Ng, Chairman and CEO of East West Bank, was named the inaugural recipient of The Wallis Icon Award, recognizing his groundbreaking work in corporate philanthropy and cross-cultural engagement.
The benefit was inspired by the urgent need to aid communities still reeling from the devastating Eaton and Palisades wildfires of 2025. Wallis Annenberg, Chairman, President, and CEO of the Annenberg Foundation, emphasized the deeper mission of the evening: 'The deadly 2025 Los Angeles wildfires ravaged our beloved communities… Still, more resources are needed. That's why we dedicate this special evening to help Los Angeles continue to recover.'The guest list reflected the night's significance. Alongside Jane Fonda were tennis legend Jim Courier and LACMA Director Michael Govan, as well as a powerful host committee including Honorary Vice-Chairs David Bohnett and Regina and Gregory Annenberg Weingarten; Event Co-Chairs Cathy and Mark Louchheim and Susan Strauss; and Event Vice-Chairs Halle and Oliver Hammond. The Honorary Committee featured prominent figures such as Willow Bay & Robert A. Iger, Sherry Lansing, Lyn Lear, Lori and Michael Milken, and Debbie Allen and Norm Nixon, among others.
Attendees were welcomed with gourmet hors d'oeuvres and curated beverages as they mingled with civic and cultural leaders. The highlight of the evening came during the award presentation to Dominic Ng, whose leadership at East West Bank has been defined by visionary growth and unwavering community support. Ng transformed the institution from a small savings and loan association into a $76 billion full-service commercial bank with a global footprint. His service extends beyond finance, with board roles at USC, Mattel, and the Council on Foreign Relations, and a legacy of cultural philanthropy spanning major Los Angeles his remarks, Robert van Leer reflected on The Wallis' broader mission: 'Contributing to the civic and cultural life of Greater Los Angeles is an essential component of The Wallis' mission… Through the arts, we can share hope for a path to better times ahead.'
The evening also marked a significant milestone: the fifteenth anniversary of the groundbreaking for The Wallis. Originally envisioned by Wallis Annenberg, who funded its transformation from the historic 1934 Beverly Hills Post Office into a state-of-the-art arts center, The Wallis has become a cornerstone of Los Angeles' cultural scene. Since opening its doors in 2013, it has hosted nearly 500 productions and received acclaim for both its diverse programming and its architectural the stars lit the sky over Beverly Hills, The Wallis Delivers fulfilled its promise: uniting hearts, minds, and resources to rebuild communities, restore hope, and celebrate the enduring power of the arts.
