Adventures in Learning’s Annual Soirée was held on Friday, April 4, 2025 at Manhasset Bay Yacht Club in Port Washington. Adventure’s 56th annual gala raised over $250,000! A year over year increase! All proceeds go towards funding Adventures’ after-school academic and enrichment programs for underserved Manhasset and Great Neck students.
An amazing dinner as prepared by Manhasset Bay’s superb catering staff of themed delicacies paired with selected wines was enjoyed by all. Afterwards, dancing to the ever-popular music of DJ Liquid Todd of Sirius XM Radio amongst exquisite décor by Westhampton floral interior designers Debbie and Steve Boehl of Honeysuckle & Roses.
Adventures Board President Kurt Kiess was Master of Ceremonies. Kristen Ryan conducted the live giving segment of the evening. Executive director, Diana Holden led the presentation of awards.
This year’s honoree was Frank Coughlin and in memory of his beloved wife, Ellen Coughlin, who passed away in 2023.The Coughlin’s have given many, many years of service to Adventures in Learning and the Manhasset community. Frank’s presence at the Spring Soirée was a key factor to its success. Frank, a Manhasset native, has been the voice of Manhasset school sports for years, from singing the National Anthem to announcing all the sporting events. He has dedicated decades to various community organizations including St. Mary’s Parish, the Rangers Lead the Way Fund, and the Nassau County Police Activity League. He served as Justice of the Village Court of the Village of Munsey Park for almost 20 years. He retired from Assured Guaranty in 2020. He is the proud father of four children and two grandchildren.
Ellen was active in volunteerism as a member of the boards of Our Lady of Grace Montessori School and Adventures in Learning. She was also a volunteer for the Manhasset Woman’s Coalition Against Breast Cancer and youth and outreach ministries in St. Mary’s Parish in Manhasset. She was warm, witty and intelligent. Ellen had a heart filled with compassion and love for her family, friends and the underserved of her community.
A major highlight of the evening was a speech from Andrea Diaz, 23, a 2025 Stony Brook University and 2020 Manhasset High School graduate. Recently, Andrea graduated as a Radiation Therapist and was offered a position with NYU Langone. She spoke eloquently and heartfelt about her experience as a participant in Adventures and what it meant to her growth and success in school and life. The entire audience was moved with compassion and pride for Andrea’s success and appreciation for what she received during her time at Adventures.
For further information, contact:
Diana Holden: 516-365-7131 or
Betsy Golan: 516-375-8089
Frank and Ellen Coughlin