The 10th anniversary celebration of the American Psychiatric Foundation at the Aquarium of the Americas in New Orleans last month raised nearly $60,000 in support of the foundation’s programs in public education, patient advocacy, and research.

Guests attending the event at APA’s 2001 annual meeting got something in return: an exclusive evening at one of the nation’s best-known aquariums and a seductive array of Louisiana delicacies and pastries. As they nibbled or gorged—as they so chose—guests meandered through the aquarium’s small-scale replicas of the Amazonian rain forest, Mississippi Delta, and Gulf of Mexico.

The evening provided a relaxing backdrop for the foundation to welcome the inaugural members of its new Founders Circle. The Founders Circle, created recently by the foundation’s Board of Directors, recognizes individuals who have been pivotal to the growth and development of the foundation. Elissa P. Benedek, M.D., Robert S. Garber, M.D., Clifford A. Parish Jr., Carolyn B. Robinowitz, M.D., and Howard F. Wallach, M.D., were honored for their vision and dedication in helping to launch the foundation a decade ago.

The foundation also recognized the newest members of the Benjamin Rush Circle (lifetime giving of $10,000 or more) and Aventis Pharmaceuticals, which is continuing its support of a special program that matches the gifts of APA members to the foundation dollar for dollar.

"Mental illness is everywhere," he said. "As psychiatrists, you need to help people understand that mental illness is nothing to be ashamed of. The impact of mental illness is felt by more than just the patient. It is also families and friends that suffer as well. We need to let people know that there are treatments available to help people cope with mental illness. I urge you to support the American Psychiatric Foundation, which is working hard everyday to overcome the stigma of mental illness and educate people about treatment options."

The American Psychiatric Foundation acknowledges the generosity of Eli Lilly & Company, Forest Laboratories, Abbott Laboratories, AstraZeneca, and Aventis Pharmaceuticals, which provided grants in support of the event. The foundation also thanks the APA Alliance for its dedication and support in helping to make the event so successful. ▪

Ms. Redd is senior development officer in APA’s Office of Resource Development.