“The energy and generosity we felt at the Chicago Epicurean was truly inspiring,” said Brandi Williams Broome, CEO of the V Foundation. “When we fund an early-career scientist, we’re not just giving them dollars — we’re giving them validation and the confidence to keep going. That’s what turns research into better treatment options, better outcomes, and lives saved. Chicago’s community made that possible again this year, and we’re grateful for it.”
The event kicked off with the Conversations for a Cure Luncheon at Morgans on Fulton, where V Foundation-funded grantees Gelareh Zadeh, M.D., Ph.D., Chair of the Department of Neurologic Surgery at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, and Alexander Muir, Ph.D., Assistant Professor at the University of Chicago, shared their innovative work. The two scientists offered a powerful look at how their projects can change outcomes for cancer patients and what opportunities lie ahead with continued investment in research.
The Gala & Auction at 167 Green -17th Floor served as the culminating event, hosted by former Chicago Blackhawk, Stanley Cup Champion, U.S. Hockey Hall of Famer and stage 3 colon cancer survivor Eddie Olczyk. Award-winning journalist Courtney Cronin, who covers the Chicago Bears and the NFL for ESPN, was a featured speaker while ESPN college basketball analyst Chris Spatola served as emcee at the Gala.
The evening closed with a spirited live auction offering an array of exceptional packages curated exclusively for this event. The auction’s top lots included Motorsports Full Throttle: An Insiders Weekend in Charlotte, Palm Beach to Carlsbad: The Ultimate Golf Adventure and A Special Surprise Lot by Eddie Olczyk. The excitement continued through the Fund-A-Need paddle raise, and in total, the event raised $1 million for lifesaving cancer research.
Overall, the V Foundation for Cancer Research has funded over $500 million in game-changing cancer research grants in North America through a competitive process strictly supervised by a world-class Scientific Advisory Committee. Specific to Chicago, the V Foundation has funded $16.8 million in research grants at the local cancer research institutes. 100% of all direct donations go toward cancer research thanks to an endowment covering operating expenses.
The V Foundation for Cancer Research Chicago Epicurean was proudly sponsored by CDW.
The 4th Annual Chicago Epicurean is set for September 25, 2027. For more information, visit v.org/chicagoepic.
###
(Images and video available upon request)
About the V Foundation for Cancer Research
The V Foundation for Cancer Research was founded in 1993 by ESPN and the late Jim Valvano, legendary North Carolina State University basketball coach, ESPN commentator and member of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. The V Foundation has funded over $500 million in game-changing cancer research grants in North America through a competitive process strictly supervised by a world-class Scientific Advisory Committee. Because the V Foundation has an endowment to cover administrative expenses, 100% of direct donations is awarded to cancer research and programs. The V team is committed to funding the best scientists to accelerate Victory Over Cancer and save lives. To learn more, visit v.org.
About the V Foundation for Cancer Research Chicago Epicurean
The V Foundation for Cancer Research Chicago Epicurean is a signature series of events featuring local all-star cancer researchers, delicious cuisine crafted by Chicago’s world-class chefs and premium selections from esteemed Northern California vintners. Proceeds from the event will fund cancer research and related programs to benefit the V Foundation for Cancer Research. For more information on the event, visit v.org/chicagoepic.
Media Contacts:
Alex Paterson
V Foundation for Cancer Research
[email protected]
Jeff Friday
V Foundation for Cancer Research
[email protected]
Share
