Roman Jewelers’ staff proudly attended the Gala, joining fellow supporters in celebrating the organization’s work. As part of the live auction, Roman Jewelers donated a lovely diamond dog print pendant designed by Frederic Sage, a piece that delighted bidders and contributed to the evening’s fundraising success. Guests enjoyed an evening filled with connection, storytelling, and irresistible charm — including a puppy kissing booth, a crowd
favorite that brought smiles (and a few happy tears) to guests of all ages. Graduates and volunteers shared the life-changing impact of guide dog partnerships, and the generosity in the room was palpable. With donations still coming in, this year’s total marks a record-breaking achievement for The Seeing Eye. We are proud to have been part of such a meaningful evening, supporting an organization whose work changes lives every day.
LEGACY OF THE SEEING EYE
Founded in 1929, The Seeing Eye is the oldest existing guide dog school in the world. Its mission is to enhance the independence, dignity, and self- confidence of people who are blind through specially bred and trained guide dogs. Over the decades, The Seeing Eye has matched thousands of individuals with guide dogs, changing lives through mobility, partnership, and trust. The organization also plays a key role in public education, raising awareness of accessibility and advocating for the rights of people who are blind. To donate to The Seeing Eye, or to get more information, visit: https://seeingeye.org.
In 1927, a young man named Morris Frank read an article about dogs being trained as guides for blinded veterans of World War I. Frustrated by his own lack of mobility as a blind person, he was inspired to ask for help from the article’s author: Dorothy Harrison Eustis, who bred and trained German Shepherd dogs in Switzerland. When she received Morris Frank’s letter, she agreed to help him. He promised he would return to the United States and spread the word about these wonderful dogs. On June 11, 1928, having completed his instruction with Eustis, Morris arrived in New York City, proving the ability of his dog, Buddy, by navigating a dangerous street crossing before throngs of news reporters. His one-word telegram to Dorothy told the entire story: “Success.” The Seeing Eye was born with the dream of making the entire world accessible to people who are blind.
Seeing Eye founders Morris Frank and Dorothy Harrison Eustis are pictured with Buddy, the first Seeing Eye dog.
9 | ROMAN JEWELERS MAGAZINE
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