Retiring U.S. Senator John Warner was honored for his service to the nation and Virginia. Speakers included Governor Kaine and former Governors Holton, Robb, and Baliles. They discussed Senator Warner's impact in state and national affairs. Barbara Fried moderated. Senator John Warner serves as the honorary chairman of the Sorensen Institute's State Advisory Board. The Sorensen Institute for Political Leadership's 2008 Gala was held at the Ritz-Carlton Pentagon City in Arlington.