In June of 2008, Mayor Villaraigosa and Getty House Foundation presented the City of Angels Awards, which recognize the honorees’ extraordinary contributions to the City of Los Angeles through civics, art, education, business, and philanthropy. In 2008 the honorees were: The Nielsen Company, Clarence and Jacqueline Avant, and David Bohnett.

GHF was honored to award The Nielsen Company with the City of Angels Award for its philanthropic leadership in the corporate community. Through its generous support of diverse educational and cultural programs, lives of children are impacted throughout the Los Angeles community.

Clarence and Jacqueline Avant were honored with the City of Angels Award because they represent community leadership and give unselfishly of their time and resources. They have made a tremendous difference in the lives of others. Clarence Avant, CEO of Interior Music Publishing and Avant Garde Music Publishing, has shown outstanding leadership in the recording industry and in his philanthropic work. Mr. Avant has long been known for his shrewd business acumen and deal-making skills. During his 40- year career, he has been actively involved in promoting opportunities for African-Americans in the recording industry.

Finally, GHF was proud to honor David Bohnett, Chairman of the David Bohnett Foundation, a non-profit grant–making organization with the stated goal of “improving society through social activism.” Mr. Bohnett is a leading technology entrepreneur with a deep commitment to improving the quality of life for all Angelenos. He is an active board member of the California Community Foundation, as well as LACMA and the Los Angeles Philharmonic Association.