the PRIVATE BANK of CALIFORNIA

President of The Private Bank of California Honored with Discovery Award

Richard A. Smith's Involvement Helps Fundraise Record-Breaking Amount for Zimmer's youTHink Program

11.15.11

Richard A. Smith, President and Co-Founder of The Private Bank of California, was honored for being an extraordinary leader in his field and community at the Zimmer’s 11^th Annual Discovery Award Dinner, which took place at the Beverly Hills Hotel this past Wednesday.  Richard’s involvement with the Zimmer and this grand event helped fundraise a record-breaking amount of money for the Zimmer’s youTHink program, which provides support and encouragement to underserved youth in the community and empowers them to think critically and make a difference in their communities.

Smith was acknowledged at the gala alongside two other worthy honorees: Andy Kaplan, President, Networks, for Sony Pictures Television (SPT) since 2005, and Courtney Mizel, Founding Director and Chairman of the Counter-terrorism Education Leaning Lab.  All three honorees are remarkable individuals and leaders in their respective realms.

“The entire Zimmer community is thrilled with the support displayed at our Discovery Award gala,” says Zimmer Children’s Museum CEO Esther Netter.  “Richard, Andy and Courtney are most deserving honorees, and their communities of colleagues and friends seized the opportunity to honor their leadership.  The evening exceeded our expectations, and we know it told our story well.

Richard graciously accepted the award and recognition as one of the ‘Early Architects of Relationship Banking’.  With over 35 years of experience, Smith understands the importance of personal service in serving the banking needs of his clients.  He also acknowledges the importance of having a support system.

“I have been fortunate to have people in my life that believe in me and inspire me,” says Richard A. Smith.  “In witnessing the Zimmer’s youTHink program first-hand, I am delighted that I can give back and support an organization that acts as a second family to underserved youth, inspiring them to stand up for what they believe in and work together to make a difference.”

Past recipients of this prestigious award include: Kevin Beggs, President of Lionsgate Television * Stephen J. Davis, President of Hasbro Studios * Barbara Fisher, Senior Vice President of Programming, The Hallmark Channel * Gary E. Knell, President and CEO of Sesame Workshop * Missy Halperin, Senior Vice President, Talent Relations for Fox Broadcasting Company * Andy Heyward, President of A Squared Entertainment * Arthur Hiller, director and humanitarian * Mark Itkin, Executive Vice President of William Morris Endeavor Entertainment * Wendy Moss Klein, Co-President, 2 Friends Entertainment * Jeff Wachtel, Co-President, USA Network.