The 28th Annual Bacchanal Wine Gala and Auction
28th Annual Bacchanal Wine Gala & Auction
Saturday, November 14, 2026
6 PM
Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Samuel M.V. Hamilton Building
128 North Broad Street
Philadelphia
Black Tie Optional | Valet Parking
Benefactor Party
Thursday, October 8, 2026
Mezzanotte Residence
Newtown Square, PA
Honoring
Donald R. Caldwell and Linda Aversa-Caldwell
Winemaker
Selah Wines
View Sponsorship Opportunities
About PAFA
Since 1805, PAFA has advanced American art through world-class education, exhibitions, and public programs. Proceeds from Bacchanal support PAFA's mission to inspire creativity and champion artists at every stage of life—from emerging talent to lifelong learners. Your generosity helps ensure that American art continues to thrive for future generations. Thank you for investing in the power of art and education.
About Donald R. Caldwell and Linda Aversa-Caldwell

For nearly three decades, Don Caldwell has been one of the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts' most visionary leaders, steadfast advocates, and generous philanthropists. Through his extraordinary leadership, strategic vision, and unwavering commitment, Don has helped shape the Academy into the thriving institution it is today, leaving a legacy that will inspire generations of artistsm 1997 to 2011, and again from 2024 to 2026, providing steady leadership during some of the institution's most transformative periods. In addition to his service as Board Chair, he stepped forward to serve as Interim President on three separate occasions, guiding the Academy through critical transitions with dedication, wisdom, and an unwavering focus on PAFA's mission.
Don's passion for the Academy is perhaps best reflected in the enduring tradition he established. In 1998, he founded Bacchanal, envisioning an event that would celebrate art, community, and philanthropy while providing critical support for PAFA's mission. Today, Bacchanal has raised more than $10 million to advance scholarships, exhibitions, and community education.
Linda Aversa-Caldwell is an equally dedicated champion of PAFA. As Past President of the Women's Committee, Chair of its 75th Anniversary Celebration, and liaison for PAFA's 220th Anniversary Soirée, she has generously shared her leadership, enthusiasm, and commitment to strengthening the Academy and its community.
Together, Don and Linda have exemplified what it means to lead through generosity, vision, and service. Their devotion has transformed the Academy and enriched the lives of countless artists, students, and supporters. It is with profound gratitude that PAFA honors Don and Linda Caldwell for their extraordinary leadership, enduring generosity, and lasting impact on the Academy.
For nearly three decades, Don Caldwell has been one of the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts' most visionary leaders, steadfast advocates, and generous philanthropists. Through his extraordinary leadership, strategic vision, and unwavering commitment, Don has helped shape the Academy into the thriving institution it is today, leaving a legacy that will inspire generations of artists, students, and supporters.
Don served as Chair of PAFA's Board of Trustees for fourteen years, from 1997 to 2011, and again from 2024 to 2026, providing steady leadership during some of the institution's most transformative periods. In addition to his service as Board Chair, he stepped forward to serve as Interim President on three separate occasions, guiding the Academy through critical transitions with dedication, wisdom, and an unwavering focus on PAFA's mission.
Don's passion for the Academy is perhaps best reflected in the enduring tradition he established. In 1998, he founded Bacchanal, envisioning an event that would celebrate art, community, and philanthropy while providing critical support for PAFA's mission. Today, Bacchanal has raised more than $10 million to advance scholarships, exhibitions, and community education.
Linda Aversa-Caldwell is an equally dedicated champion of PAFA. As Past President of the Women's Committee, Chair of its 75th Anniversary Celebration, and liaison for PAFA's 220th Anniversary Soirée, she has generously shared her leadership, enthusiasm, and commitment to strengthening the Academy and its community.
Together, Don and Linda have exemplified what it means to lead through generosity, vision, and service. Their devotion has transformed the Academy and enriched the lives of countless artists, students, and supporters. It is with profound gratitude that PAFA honors Don and Linda Caldwell for their extraordinary leadership, enduring generosity, and lasting impact on the Academy.
Selah Wines
Selah Wines is a boutique Napa Valley winery founded by former Phillies pitcher Joe Blanton. Nestled on Howell Mountain, Selah is dedicated to producing limited-production Cabernet Sauvignon that reflects the region's exceptional terroir. Crafted by acclaimed winemaker, Thomas Rivers Brown, Selah wines are celebrated for their balance, elegance, and world-class quality. Named after the Hebrew word selah, meaning "to pause and reflect," each bottle embodies a moment to savor life's most meaningful occasions.
28th Annual Bacchanal Wine Gala and Auction Committee
Co-Chairs
Aaron Cohen and Sean Edwards
Committee
Heather and Peter Andrews
Kristin and Jamie* Biddle
Elliot H. Clark*
Amy M. Coes*
Allitia DiBernardo
Betsy and Kevin* Donohoe
Bill* and Rosemary Hankowsky
Larry R. Kaiser
Ro King*
Elizabeth Kelly Le Vine *
Michael Madrigale
Barbara McCollum*
Sandra* and Bill Mezzanotte
Vanessa Oliver
Katie Rhodes
Timothy P. Speiss*
*Board of Trustees as of July 1, 2026
Thank You to Our Sponsors
Premier

Diamond
Connelly Foundation
Tim Speiss and Judith Morais
Gold
Donald R. Caldwell and Linda Aversa-Caldwell
Aaron Cohen and Priscilla Coblentz
Ro and Martin King
Sandra and William Mezzanotte
Bronze
Heather and Peter Andrews
Tom and Carolyn Bennett
Elliot Clark and Rita Chack
Amy and Putnam Coes

Allitia DiBernardo, MD
Betsy and Kevin Donohoe
Susan and Leonard Klehr
Mrs. Elizabeth Le Vine and Mr. Jarad Poor


The Victory Foundation
List complete as of August 1, 2026.
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