On Friday, October 17, 2025, the Goldwater Institute will be hosting its Freedom Gala at the Arizona Biltmore Resort, featuring a performance by comedian and impressionist Frank Caliendo, special guest Governor Glenn Youngkin of Virginia and special guest Elijah Stacy, 22 years old, will be presented with the Freedom Award.
The evening will celebrate the Goldwater Institute’s mission and wins over the past year, which include expanding educational freedom, defending free speech as well as stopping government overreach in healthcare, property rights, and economic liberty.
Elijah Stacy, who will be presented with the Freedom Award, was diagnosed with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, which took away his ability to walk at age 11, and he has since turned his battle into a mission. He founded Destroy Duchenne at 15 years of age and became a leading advocate for medical freedom, choices and research. His story is integral to Goldwater’s Right to Try movement, ensuring patients have the right to access lifesaving treatments.
This year’s event draws from the Goldwater Institute’s iconic Arizonian heritage and honors the work that began here. The Goldwater Institute is paying tribute to the pioneering spirit that shaped the Institute’s founding and continues to guide its mission today.
Guests will also enjoy a special performance from Frank Caliendo, whose high-energy impressions of public figures and sports icons have earned him standing ovations from Capitol Hill to the NFL stage. His appearances on The Late Show, The Tonight Show, FOX NFL Sunday, and ESPN’s Sunday NFL Countdown have made him one of the most recognizable comedic talents in the country.
“The Goldwater Institute is proud to celebrate another year of success, and we’re honored to welcome Governor Youngkin as our Freedom Gala special guest,” said Victor Riches, President and CEO of the Goldwater Institute. “Governor Youngkin is a bold advocate for parental rights, school choice, and limited government—values that are at the heart of Goldwater’s mission.”
The evening will include dinner, live entertainment, and an opportunity to support the Goldwater Institute’s mission to defend the American Dream nationwide.
Chairman of the Goldwater Institute Tom Hatten said “this night promises to be an inspirational patriotic event, showcasing everything from great leadership to enjoyable fun entertainment, certainly a can’t miss!”
Tickets and sponsorships are available now. For more information or to RSVP, visit GoldwaterGala.com.
