Indiana University President Michael A. McRobbie was honored at the 18th annual Masquerade at Bankers Life Fieldhouse in Indianapolis Oct. 19, along with Purdue President Mitch Daniels.

The event benefits the Simon Youth Foundation and the Pacers Foundation. The organizations recognize leaders each year who make lasting contributions to Indiana and beyond.

In his remarks during the gala, McRobbie said being honored alongside Daniels highlights the importance of higher education for all Hoosiers.

"These honors also come at a time when our two outstanding universities are marking historical milestones — Indiana University's bicentennial and Purdue's sesquicentennial," McRobbie said. "At this historic moment, IU and Purdue continue to work side-by-side to strengthen higher education in Indiana and to build a better future for the sons and daughters of all Hoosiers."

The Masquerade has raised more than $14 million for the Simon Youth and Pacers foundations since it started in 2002.