Metropolitan Magazine and 25A Magazine’s Publisher Chase Backer and Editor-In-Chief Christopher A. Pape hosted a party to celebrate author and philanthropist Jean Shafiroff’s cover stories in Metropolitan Magazine and 25A Magazine’s April 2017 issues. “Wear a sombrero!” was the cri de coeur for the Cinco de Mayo party at Selena Rosa Mexicana in Manhattan.
In her cover story, Jean talks about her philosophy of finding meaning by giving, whether it be time, knowledge or money, detailed in her book, Successful Philanthropy: How to Make a Life by What You Give. “I’ve come to the conclusion that we’re here for a reason,” she says. “We have to do what we can to improve the lives of future generations. We have to be socially aware and we have to do something to enact change.”
Among her ever increasing circle of friends at Selina Rosa were: former Miss America Suzette Charles, Natalie Ross, Leesa Rowland and Larry Wohl, fashion designer Victor de Souza, Jane Pontarelli, Jerry and Suzan Kremer, Barry Meisel, Dawn Marie Grannum, Montgomery Frazier, Ben Mindich, Roy and Michael Kean.
Jean’s indefatigable drive – and husband Martin’s support – has enabled her to make a difference to the underserved, here and around the world. She serves on the boards of New York City Mission Society, New York Women’s Foundation, French Heritage Society, Couture Council (Museum of the Fashion Institute of Technology), Jewish Board of Family and Children’s Services (20+ years), Southampton Animal Shelter Honorary Board, Southampton Bath & Tennis Club’s Charitable Foundation and Global Strays, the charity daughter Elizabeth founded. Recently Jean became an Ambassador for the American Humane Society.
Jean holds an MBA from the Graduate School of Business at Columbia University and a BS in physical therapy from the Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons.