Police Athletic League Honors Soloviev Group’s Michael Hershman at Star-Studded 50th Superstar Gala

The city’s philanthropic elite gathered at The Pierre Hotel for the Police Athletic League’s 50th Annual Superstar Gala, a milestone celebration that raised more than $1 million for youth programs benefiting over 18,000 New York City children each year. The evening honored Michael Hershman, CEO of the Soloviev Group, whose journey from a PAL kid in Brooklyn to global business leader embodied the organization’s mission of mentorship and opportunity.

“Michael’s story is a reminder that PAL doesn’t just build athletes—it builds citizens,” said Stefan Soloviev, Chairman of Soloviev Group. Guests including Jeff Blau, John Catsimatidis, Al Roker, Deborah Roberts, and Cal Ripken Jr. joined in celebrating the occasion, which blended high-society glamour with heartfelt philanthropy. Between the champagne toasts and performances, the mood was less about spectacle and more about impact, as attendees pledged to continue supporting PAL’s century-long commitment to empowering New York’s youth.

“For me, PAL has always been about teamwork and giving people a chance,” Hershman told the crowd. His words summed up the night’s spirit: ambition matched with purpose, privilege balanced by generosity. In a city where success stories are plentiful, this one stood apart—rooted not in wealth or fame, but in giving back to the community that started it all.


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