This event has passed. Our sincere thanks to all of you who made this a spectacular evening and helped support the Garden’s educational programs and plant collections. You can still contribute to BBG and the Spring Gala by making a gift below or by calling Development at 718-623-7356. Viraj Puri Jennifer Eisenstadt Courtney BroadwaterHonoring
Cofounder and CEO of Gotham Greens
Gala Co-Chairs
Krystyna HouserGala Vice-Chairs
Marshall MillerAfter Party
Drinks, dessert, and dancing on Cherry Esplanade
Tickets range from $500 to $2,500; tables for ten start at $7,500. Proceeds from the Spring Gala provide essential support for the Garden’s programs and collections.
Inspired by the Garden’s own revitalization, the evening’s menu will be designed and prepared by Patina Restaurant Group. Each course will feature fresh ingredients that were sustainably grown and harvested.
Festive botanical attire encouraged. Tickets held at the door. Complimentary valet parking provided for cocktails and dinner guests.
Honoree
Better Earth Award
Viraj Puri
Cofounder and CEO, Gotham Greens
Brooklyn Botanic Garden is pleased to honor Viraj Puri, cofounder and CEO of Gotham Greens, for his dedication to creating transformative pathways to affordable, nutritious, and locally grown produce through urban agriculture, sustainable technology, and social entrepreneurship.
Since its establishment in Brooklyn in 2009, Gotham Greens has been a leader in identifying innovative solutions to major environmental challenges while addressing core community needs. Under Viraj’s leadership, Gotham Greens has revolutionized how fresh food is grown and distributed by transforming underutilized rooftops with technologically sophisticated urban greenhouses powered by 100 percent renewable electricity.
Gotham Greens has quickly become one of the largest and most commercially successful urban agriculture companies in the world, with more than 170,000 square feet of greenhouses across four facilities in New York City and Chicago and projects in development in cities across the United States. The company’s unique model provides ways in which cities can supply urban communities with a reliable year-round, local supply of produce grown under the highest ecologically sustainable standards.
Prior to Gotham Greens, Viraj developed and managed startup enterprises in the United States, India, and Malawi, focusing on sustainable agriculture, green building, renewable energy, and environmental design. He has received fellowships from the TED conference, Wild Gift, and the Environmental Leadership Program. Viraj is also a LEED Accredited Professional.
Special thanks to Gala and After Party sponsors and partners:
Contact Us
For more information about tickets, donations, sponsorship, or to purchase tickets or donate by phone, call Special Events at 718-623-7356 or email [email protected].
Charity Info
Brooklyn Botanic Garden is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation. A portion of membership fees and benefit event tickets, and 100% of contributions are tax deductible.
The full legal name and address of the Garden is
Brooklyn Botanic Garden Corporation
1000 Washington Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11225
BBG's federal tax identification number (TIN) is 11-2417338.