On September 30, 2016, Operation Smile held its 2016 Los Angeles Smile Gala at the Beverly Wilshire Beverly Hills (A Four Seasons Hotel). The Gala helped to raise funds and awareness for children around the world suffering from cleft lip, cleft palate and other facial deformities. ifeng.com, a global leading new media company with an integrated platform consisting of internet media, website, mobile and video channels, was pleased to support Operation Smile as the title sponsor of the event through their signature charity project, “Forever Happiness.” Yvonne Strahovski presented the Corporate Humanitarian Award to The Nerd Machine Co-Founders, Zachary Levi and David Coleman. Since the company’s inception in 2010, The Nerd Machine has been a strong supporter of Operation Smile through its annual event The Nerd HQ, raising over $1 million in support. Smile Ambassador Kate Walsh presented the Wallis Annenberg Public Service Award to Whitney Cummings for her dedication and energy in improving the lives of others and setting an example of exceptional leadership. This past April, Cummings volunteered on an Operation Smile medical mission in Hanoi, Vietnam. Smile Ambassador Brooke Burke-Charvet served as Master of Ceremonies for the fourth consecutive year, and Kevin Beggs, Roma Downey and Mark Burnett, Jennifer and Henry Salke, served as co-chairs for the Gala. The evening featured a special performance by singer Jordin Sparks, and DJ Mix Master Mike Official of the Beastie Boys entertained guests at the after party. Photos by Vince Bucci
