“I am extremely proud to join the celebrated lineup of 'The Face of Tisch' gala and participate in an evening that will support arts education and an institution like Tisch where I have benefited personally from their extraordinary training. I am thrilled to give back to my Tisch community," Franco said in a statement.

The accomplished actor, who has appeared in "Milk," "Howl" and "Spider-Man," is currently studying film production at the Maurice Kanbar Institute of Film & Television at New York University.

As previously reported, the gala evening will honor Crystal, who  graduated NYU's Tisch School in 1970 with a BFA and attended classes in the 111 Second Avenue building. The building also served as the original home of Tisch. It is also where Crystal's father, Jack, produced "The Sessions" jazz concerts throughout the 1950's. Proceeds from the gala will help fund renovations of the historic building.

Crystal's play 700 Sundays, which drew on his childhood experiences with his father, earned the 2005 Tony Award as Best Special Theatrical Event. Crystal's film credits include "Analyze That," "Running Scared," "City Slickers," "Throw Momma From The Train," "The Princess Bride," "When Harry Met Sally," "Mr. Saturday Night" and "America's Sweethearts."

The gala evening, which will feature live entertainment, will be directed by Arthur Masella at Frederick P. Rose Hall. Visit TischGala.