Mark is often asked to host gala events ranging from award ceremonies to concert productions. He was a regular host at the annual IAJE conventions. Most recently he emceed the Miles Davis stamp dedication ceremony held at the Rubin Museum of Art in New York City.

(clockwise starting left) June Townes, singer; Erin Davis, Miles’ son; Mark Ruffin, journalist and radio personality; Vincent Wilburn, Jr., Miles’ nephew and musician; Tania Stavreva, pianist; George Avakian, producer, Columbia Records; Cheryl Davis, Miles’ daughter; Don Was, President, Blue Note Records; and Maria Elena Infantino, singer and actress, and Edith Piaf impressionist.