Global Philadelphia Association to Host 11th Annual World Heritage City Celebration
The event will honor retiring 6abc Action News Chief Meteorologist Cecily Tynan with the Distinguished Journalism Globy Award during Semiquincentennial year
PHILADELPHIA, PA (August 3, 2026) – Global Philadelphia Association (GPA) is proud to announce its 11th Annual World Heritage City Celebration (WHCC) on Thursday, September 10, 2026, from 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM at the Crystal Tea Room. Reflecting GPA's mission to promote Philadelphia's international significance, and strengthen its global connections, the annual celebration brings together civic, business, cultural, and international leaders to honor the individuals and organizations that elevate the city's reputation around the world. As the nation commemorates its 250th anniversary in 2026, this year's celebration takes on added significance, highlighting Philadelphia's enduring role as America's first World Heritage City.
This year's celebration will honor longtime 6abc Action News Chief Meteorologist Cecily Tynan with the 2026 Distinguished Journalism Globy Award. Just days after concluding her more than 30-year career at 6abc, Tynan will be recognized for her extraordinary contributions to journalism and her lasting impact on the Greater Philadelphia region. Since joining the station in 1995, she has become one of the region's most trusted and recognizable voices, informing and connecting communities while representing Philadelphia with professionalism, integrity and excellence. Beyond the newsroom, she has demonstrated a longstanding commitment to the region through her support of charitable causes and organizations across the Delaware Valley. Her enduring leadership, dedication to public service and lasting impact on the Philadelphia community embody the spirit of the city's global identity.
"As I reflect on more than 30 years at 6abc, I'm incredibly grateful to have served the Greater Philadelphia community and witnessed the resilience, generosity and spirit that make this city so extraordinary," said Tynan. "Receiving this recognition from Global Philadelphia Association is a tremendous honor, and I'm proud to celebrate Philadelphia's place as a World Heritage City during such a historic year for our nation."
More than a decade ago, Philadelphia made history and became the first U.S. city designated as a World Heritage City, joining an international network of cities recognized for their exceptional cultural and historical significance. During America's 250th anniversary year, that designation underscores Philadelphia's enduring role in democracy, history, and global engagement.
"Each year, the World Heritage City Celebration honors the people and partnerships that strengthen Philadelphia's connections to the world," said Zabeth Teelucksingh, President of Global Philadelphia Association. "As our nation marks its 250th anniversary, this year's celebration is an opportunity to reflect on our city's remarkable history while looking ahead to its future as a center of culture, diplomacy and international collaboration."
This year's celebration is led by distinguished civic leaders serving as Event Co-Chairs. Former Philadelphia Mayor Michael A. Nutter, the city's 98th mayor, devoted nearly 23 years to public service through the Philadelphia City Council and Mayor's Office, championing economic development, sustainability, public safety, and international engagement while helping strengthen Philadelphia's global profile. He is joined by Leslie Anne Miller, an accomplished attorney, philanthropist and civic leader whose groundbreaking career includes serving as the first woman President of the Pennsylvania Bar Association and the first woman General Counsel of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Through decades of leadership with organizations including the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the Kimmel Center and numerous educational and civic institutions, Miller has been a tireless advocate for the arts, historic preservation, education and Philadelphia's cultural vitality.
Representing the next generation of leadership are Young Professional Co-Chairs Vanessa Caracoza and Rishaun Hall. Caracoza, Deputy Executive Director of the Philadelphia City Commissioners Office and President of the ALPFA Philadelphia Chapter, has built a career advancing civic participation, inclusive leadership and opportunities for emerging professionals. Hall, Senior Policy Associate at The Pew Charitable Trusts and President of Young Involved Philadelphia, is a dedicated champion of civic engagement, with leadership spanning youth development, workforce initiatives and community empowerment. Together, they reflect the collaborative leadership shaping Philadelphia's future as a globally connected World Heritage City. During this year's celebration, GPA will also recognize Rev. Dr. Lorina Marshall-Blake for her visionary leadership in establishing the Young Professional Co-Chair initiative for WHCC, creating a lasting opportunity to engage and empower emerging civic leaders in Philadelphia.
As Philadelphia continues to welcome visitors from around the world throughout this historic Semiquincentennial year, the World Heritage City Celebration reflects the city's continued leadership in culture, diplomacy, education, innovation, and international engagement—honoring the past while looking confidently toward the future.
The evening will feature a seated dinner, cultural performances, and a fireside chat between Tynan and fell 6abc Action News anchor Nydia Han, her longtime colleague and friend of more than two decades. The celebration will gather hundreds of civic, business, and cultural leaders to reflect on Philadelphia’s global journey and future.
For more information or to purchase tickets, visit: https://globalphiladelphia.org/world-heritage-city celebration.