The Municipal Forum of New York recently held their 33rd annual awards and leadership fellows fundraising dinner to honor industry leaders and veterans in the field. Among the recipients were Marjorie Henning, Albert Simons, and Jacques Jiha, each recognized for their outstanding contributions to the community and their respective fields.
Marjorie Henning, the retired deputy comptroller for public finance for the New York City Comptroller’s office, was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award by Ray Orlando, the CFO of Empire State Development. Throughout her three-decade career in public finance, Henning held various positions of significance within the industry, showcasing a wealth of knowledge and experience. She reflected on her journey into municipal finance, mentioning that it was mostly by chance that she found herself in this field. However, her dedication and accomplishments speak volumes about her commitment to public service.
Albert Simons, a retired partner at Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe, received the Austin Koenen Career Achievement Award, presented by Kevin Roche. Simons’ career was characterized by dedication, hard work, and a strong sense of mentorship. His involvement in unique transactions, such as the first tobacco securitization deal in the country, underscored his innovative approach to financial matters. Simons’ leadership style and enthusiasm set him apart as a role model for aspiring professionals in the industry.
Jacques Jiha, the New York City Budget Director, was recognized with the Public Service Award for his exceptional leadership during challenging times. Tara Boirard, Jiha’s senior deputy director, highlighted his unwavering commitment to balancing the city’s budget and addressing critical needs, especially in the midst of a pandemic. Jiha’s impressive career trajectory, from serving as the CFO of Black Enterprise to his current role as the Budget Director, exemplifies his passion for public service and financial management.
The Municipal Forum’s commitment to supporting young talents through initiatives like the Urban Leadership Fellows program and college scholarships was praised by Jiha during his acceptance speech. He emphasized the importance of shaping the minds and lives of young New Yorkers who aspire to pursue careers in finance. The program’s mission to provide paid summer internships to graduating high school students reflects a dedication to nurturing future leaders in the financial sector.
The Municipal Forum of New York’s awards dinner was a celebration of excellence, leadership, and commitment to public service. The honorees, Marjorie Henning, Albert Simons, and Jacques Jiha, exemplify the highest standards of professionalism and dedication in their respective fields. Their contributions have not only shaped the landscape of municipal finance but have also inspired the next generation of leaders to make a difference in their communities.