Celebrating Service and Leadership: 2025 Humanitarian and Outstanding Philanthropy Award Recipients

The 2025 Boston Winter Ball promises to be a night of joy, inspiration, and celebration, as the Corey C. Griffin Foundation honors three remarkable individuals for their enduring commitment to philanthropy, service, and community impact.

Honoring Karen and Rob Hale: 2025 Humanitarian Award

Karen and Rob Hale embody generosity and vision. For decades, they’ve transformed lives through their dedication to health, education, and equity across Massachusetts and beyond. Rob Hale, the co-founder and President of Granite Telecommunications, has built a business that values community as much as success. Granite has been named the most generous company in Massachusetts multiple times, donating over $200 million to local charities in a three-year span. Meanwhile, Karen Hale leads the Fox Rock Foundation, focusing on community health, environmental care, and creating opportunities for all.

Their commitment to philanthropy goes far beyond financial support. From Karen’s leadership on the Breast Cancer Research Foundation’s Board to Rob’s work championing diversity and equity in the business world, the Hales are passionate about making a tangible difference. They’ve donated or pledged over $300 million to causes they believe in and have been recognized with numerous accolades, including the Boston Red Sox Jimmy Fund Award and the 2024 Ron Burton Humanitarian Award.

Through their actions, Karen and Rob exemplify the core values of the Corey C. Griffin Foundation: belief in the power of relationships, service, and giving to unlock the potential in others.

Karen & Rob Hale Humanitarian Awards

Celebrating Lisa Warshafsky: 2025 Outstanding Philanthropy Award

Lisa Warshafsky, Principal of Saint John Paul II Catholic Academy’s Lower Mills Campus in Dorchester, is a force of nature in urban education. Her innovative leadership has reshaped educational opportunities for countless students and their families. Lisa’s dedication stems from her unwavering belief in creating equity, access, and opportunity for all children, regardless of their circumstances.

Lisa’s accomplishments are both inspiring and extensive. A Boston College graduate with dual master’s degrees in social work and school administration, Lisa has become a thought leader in strategic partnerships and program development. She has spearheaded initiatives that bridge the gap between community resources and classroom needs, ensuring her students can dream bigger and achieve more. Her work has earned her prestigious awards, including the 2019 Red Sox Inspirational Leadership Award and the 2017 Innovations in Catholic Education Award.

Her partnership with the Corey C. Griffin Foundation exemplifies the power of collective impact, as she channels her energy and expertise to foster inclusive prosperity for the next generation.

Lisa Warshafsky headshot

Celebrate With Us!

Join us in recognizing Karen, Rob, and Lisa at the 2025 Boston Winter Ball on Saturday, February 8, at the Omni Hotel Boston in the Seaport. This elegant evening is more than a celebration — it’s a chance to support the incredible work of the Corey C. Griffin Foundation.

Host a table, purchase tickets, or make a donation today to honor these exceptional leaders who light the way for so many. Together, we can continue to support Boston-area children as they achieve their full potential.

For more information and purchasing links, please visit our Boston Winter Ball webpage or contact Katie Gassert, Director of Advancement and Special Events, [email protected].

Boston Winter Ball logo