Friends of Goethe New York

As an advocate for German-American dialogue and long-time sponsor of Friends of Goethe, I'm proud that the Friends have been able to fully fund the prestigious Helen & Kurt Wolff and Gutekunst translation awards, which offer meaningful recognition in the fields of literature and publishing. I deeply value the Goethe-Institut's ambitious and accessible programming in the heart of New York City.

It's hard to imagine my own career as a translator without the Friends of Goethe New York. This funding provides translators the financial footing to pursue their calling and gives them confidence in the validity of that pursuit. The annual celebration of German-English translators represents a beacon of intercultural exchange in a murky arts landscape, a vital opportunity to meet brilliant new colleagues, deepen personal connections and creative partnerships, and engage with ideas and impressions that enrich mind and work.

To realize ambitious projects and give new voices from Germany a platform in the American context, we rely more than ever on the support of individuals and institutions to develop major projects. Contributions from foundation and private donors allow for exceptional initiatives that strengthen the transatlantic dialogue and enable cultural participation.