Crown Affair recognizes three philanthropic superstars

True altruism

Published On: May 26, 2010

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Whether it’s by way of karma, faith or pure luck—take your pick; there is no arguing that good things happen to good people. Three very good people were recognized for their years of service to the Nashville community at the Crown Affair one recent spring evening. The young and young at heart gathered together at the FiftyForward building to celebrate the incomparable achievements of Margaret Ann Robinson, Bernard Werthan and Harry Allen.

If you have spent any time on the Nashville nonprofit scene, these three are household names. Margaret Ann Robinson, who received the Crowning Achievement Award at the event, has been a philanthropic fixture around town for years. She might be most well known for her integral role in establishing the Nashville Public Library Foundation. We are confident that without Margaret Ann’s dedication and passion, the Downtown library would not exist.

Also being honored with the Crowning Achievement Award was Bernard Werthan, who served as one of the founding board members of the Opportunities Industrialization Center. The OIC has helped countless Middle Tennesseans further their education and find a steady job.

Harry Allen was recognized with the Shining Star Award, which is given each year to a nonprofit superstar who is under the age of 40. Harry has served two terms on FiftyForward’s Board of Directors and currently serves as the Treasurer on the Alumni Board of Directors and Belmont. When do these folks have time to sleep!?

With a silent auction featuring gorgeous jewels from Cindi Earl and lush hydrangeas on each table, this was an evening to remember. Family members of each honoree beamed with pride, overjoyed with the accomplishments of their loved one. Margaret Ann, Bernard and Harry seemed to be on Cloud 9. They were just doing what they do best—putting smiles on everyone’s faces. MM

—photographs by
sinclair kelly