At the opulent Plaza Hotel in New York, an atmosphere of accomplishment and futuristic optimism pervaded the air on Thursday evening as the American Skin Association (ASA) held its prestigious Spring Gala. It was an evening dedicated to celebrating groundbreaking advancements in dermatology and honoring those whose contributions have been pivotal in forging a path toward new understandings and treatments of skin diseases.

This year, the gala spotlighted two extraordinary honorees; Dr. Emma Guttman-Yassky, a beacon of innovation and dedication in the dermatological research landscape, and Eli Lilly and Company, a global pharmaceutical giant with a longstanding legacy of medical breakthroughs.

Dr. Guttman-Yassky, the System Chair of the Department of Dermatology at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, was awarded the Inaugural Therapeutic Innovation Award. Recognized as one of the premier experts in inflammatory skin diseases worldwide, Dr. Guttman-Yassky’s relentless pursuit of new dermatological therapies has illuminated paths for patient care that were previously unthought-of. As the first woman to chair a dermatology department in New York, her achievements not only break new scientific ground but also shatter glass ceilings, inspiring a new generation of female dermatologists.

Eli Lilly and Company was presented with the 2024 Distinguished Corporate Leadership Award for its exceptional contributions to dermatology. Through its commitment to innovative clinical trials and making medicines accessible and affordable, Eli Lilly and Company exemplifies how corporate entities can profoundly impact public health. The company’s global reach and its dedication to turning scientific discovery into therapeutic reality have significantly advanced the treatment of skin diseases, affecting the lives of millions around the world for the better.

ASA’s Spring Gala was not just a celebration of achievements but also a reinforcement of the ongoing commitment to advancing dermatological research and education. Howard P. Milstein, Chairman of ASA, and Dr. David A. Norris, President of ASA, both articulated their anticipation of continued collaboration with pioneers like Dr. Guttman-Yassky and institutions like Eli Lilly and Company. Their collective efforts are instrumental in driving forward ASA’s mission to find cures for skin diseases.

Beyond honoring distinguished contributions to dermatology, the gala also underscored ASA’s crucial role in funding scientific research and promoting skin health education. With over $50 million in grants awarded to more than 300 young scientists, ASA’s contribution to dermatological research is monumental. These efforts not only unravel the complexities of skin diseases but also pave the way for innovative cures and treatments. Moreover, ASA’s dedication to educating the public about skin health, notably through the SPOTS program, highlights the critical importance of prevention and early detection in combating skin cancer.

As guests and honorees mingled under the chandeliers of The Plaza Hotel, the message was clear: the fight against skin diseases is advancing, with breakthroughs on the horizon. The gala, charmingly emceed by NBC’s Emmy-winning weather anchor Dave Price, was more than a gathering; it was a manifestation of hope, dedication, and the belief that together, we can make a difference in the lives of millions suffering from skin diseases.

With a legacy of nearly four decades, ASA continues to be at the forefront of the battle against skin diseases, driven by a coalition of patients, families, advocates, physicians, and scientists. Through events like the Spring Gala, ASA not only raises the necessary funds to support its mission but also celebrates the spirit of innovation and compassion that defines the dermatological community.