Friday, October 3, 2008

Highland Capital fetes itself at 20th party

By Mass High Tech Staff

The extravagant Highland Capital Partners’ 20th anniversary gala last night, held at the Boston Museum of Science, made for an interesting contrast to the overall economic woes outside. Come to think of it, there were lots of contrasting images.

Wining and dining the firm’s clients, portfolio companies and partners from both coasts, Highland Capital offered up a party that several people in attendance said Boston hasn’t seen in years. From the blinking and flashing strobe lights to the people in the spotlight — including human statues and contortionists as well as roving magicians and a roomful of psychics — the night began with a half-court three-on-three tournament replete with the Boston Celtics championship trophy and several team cheerleaders standing nearby. The evening offered up a who’s who of the Boston technology investment community, but who chose to keep the night off the record. Attendees included several Mass High Tech All-Stars , including Hassan Ahmed of Sonus Network; Vin Bisceglia, former CEO of Broadbus Technologies; James Geshwiler, founder of Common Angels; Shayne Gilbert, founder of Silverweave Inc.; Roy Hirshland of T3 Realty Advisors; John Landry, former CTO of Lotus and head of investment firm Lead Dog Ventures; and Joyce Plotkin, of the Mass Tech Leadership Council.

Highland co-founder Paul Maeder, who was joined on the stage by his partner and co-founder Bob Higgins at one point last night, has been named a Mass High Tech All-Star this year, and will be at the Charles Hotel on Oct. 30 to accept the award.

Editor’s note: How many other Mass High Tech All-Stars were there? Let us know by posting your comments below!