ACT Conservatory Awards: On Jan. 24 at the Westin St. Francis hotel, American Conservatory Theater presented its inaugural awards to honor training-program alumni and pay tribute to major donors. The winners were actresses Annette Bening and Elizabeth Banks, and patrons Geoff Elliott, Julia Rodriguez-Elliott, Frannie Fleishhacker and the late Mort Fleishhacker. The William Randolph Hearst Foundation also was recognized.

Conard House benefit helps vulnerable adults  

Conard House Gala: The organization dedicated to helping vulnerable adults with mental disorders held its annual fund-raiser Thursday at the Bently Reserve in The City, featuring auctions, fine dining and mistress of ceremonies Cheryl Jennings of KGO (Ch. 7). Proceeds will support Conard House’s five-year, $2.5 million Personal Health Initiative.
 

Smuin Ballet event celebrates 18 years

Beyond Ballet: Smuin Ballet’s 2012 gala Saturday at the Four Seasons hotel in The City was hosted by co-chairs Athena and John Konstin and Chris and Ed Schweitzer, and honorary chairs Jennifer and Mike Krukow. The evening featured cocktails, a silent auction, dining and a performance by the troupe celebrating 18 years of presenting top-notch dance.