On Thursday, April 10th, NTSUSA celebrated its 25^th anniversary at the annual A Celebration of Scotland’s Treasures gala, raising over $425,000 to support the National Trust for Scotland’s conservation work – a new record!

Held at New York City’s historic Metropolitan Club, the evening included a performance by Highland dancers A Shot of Scotch; libations provided by The Macallan and The Isle of Harris Distillery; a live auction that featured not one but two Andy Scott sculptures; and a joyous “Auld Lang Syne” at the end of the night.

The highlight of the evening was Robert Carlyle OBE’s acceptance of the 2025 Great Scot award, presented to him by National Trust for Scotland president Jackie Bird MBE. Carlyle, a Glasgow native who is known for roles in Trainspotting, The Full Monty, and most recently Toxic Town, gave a moving acceptance speech that reminded us all of the enduring power of identity in storytelling, the global legacy of Scotland, and the importance of staying connected to our roots.

The gala was chaired by former NTSUSA Trustee  Jill Joyce with the assistance of vice chairs Charlotte Lyeth Burton, Susanne Nichol, Donna Schinderman, and Naoma Tate. Our Emerging Leaders committee contributed a tremendous amount to the success – and fun! – of the evening. We also are grateful to gala sponsors Araminta Campbell, Freeman’s|Hindman, Hebridean Island Cruises, Kirkland & Ellis, Luxury Scotland, Lyon & Turnbull, Royal Scotsman, a Belmond Train, Isle of Harris Gin and The Macallan, and all of our many auction donors for their support.

More photos of the event can be seen at NTSUSA’s Facebook Album, and Annie Watts’ digital gallery.

Please save the date for next year’s A Celebration of Scotland’s Treasures: Thursday, April 16, 2026.