Cardinal Dolan, Police Commissioner Tisch Honored at 81st Annual Al Smith Dinner, Archbishop Hicks’ First as Host

New York Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch received the Happy Warrior Award during the 81st Annual Alfred E. Smith Memorial Foundation Dinner on Oct. 15 at the Waldorf Astoria in Manhattan. The event, which was the first hosted by Archbishop Hicks, also honored Cardinal Timothy M. Dolan, archbishop emeritus of New York.

Approximately 850 people attended the dinner to support the foundation, which raises funds for vulnerable women and children within the Archdiocese of New York. Kathleen McGowan, the foundation’s executive director, reported that the event raised an estimated $6.4 million this year.

During her acceptance speech, Tisch noted her role as a Jewish police commissioner working for a Muslim mayor and expressed gratitude for the honor from the Catholic Church. She also identified Cardinal Dolan and the Rev. A.R. Bernard as co-chief chaplains of the interreligious NYPD chaplain group she appointed this year.

Cardinal Dolan spoke about the legacy of former New York Governor Al Smith, noting the need for the light and ability to bridge conflicts that Smith provided during his era. Speakers at the event emphasized unity, humility, and the importance of opposing hatred.