Rochester, N.Y. — A special honor was given to award-winning actress and filmmaker Jodie Foster Thursday night.

She accepted the George Eastman Award for her many contributions to cinema.

A gala was held during the ceremony, which included a compilation of her work, as well as a live conversation about her career.

During her acceptance speech, Foster said her work is not just about building a legacy, but creating lasting bonds with viewers.

"I do this for connection — I do this to connect from me to you, to really embrace our shared humanity," she explained. "When we preserve film, that's what we're keeping alive - that connection."

Foster started acting when she was only 3-years-old.

She eventually went on the win the Oscar for best actress for her role in the 1991 film "The Silence of the Lambs."

She's also received an Emmy nomination for her work as a producer and director.

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