The V Foundation for Cancer Research Chicago Epicurean Raises Over $1.13 Million for Cancer Research

“Chicago Epicurean is an incredible display of generosity from a passionate community,” said Coury Shadyac, Chief Development Officer of the V Foundation. “In just two years, we’ve seen a dedicated group of sponsors and attendees come together to accelerate Victory Over Cancer^® and save lives. We’re funding bold ideas that push the envelope in cancer research, and Chicago Epicurean is making that happen.”

Chicago Epicurean celebrated the best of Chicago over the two-day event. Highlights included:

• Vintner Showcase Reception at Oakville Grille & Cellar. Inspired by Northern California’s relaxed ambiance, the Oakville Grill and Cellar transported guests to wine country featuring Northern California vintners, regional chefs, and lively entertainment.
• Conversations for a Cure, an enlightening discussion with some of the nation’s leading scientists. V Foundation funded researchers shared information on groundbreaking work and discussed their backgrounds within the cancer research community, their current research projects, and the impact for patients and their families.
• Lunch & Chef Demonstration at Maxwells Trading, one of Chicago’s most exciting culinary destinations. Maxwells Trading was recently named by Bon Appétit and Esquire as one of the Best New Restaurants in America.
• Gala & Auction at 167 Green, 17th Floor, featured an impressive menu paired with varietals and vintages from one of Northern California’s most renowned vintners, John Anthony Vineyards,  culminating with a spirited live auction offering an array of exceptional experiences and luxurious packages.

Chicago Bulls Point Guard Tre Jones co-hosted the Gala & Auction, joined on stage by Chris Spatola, ESPN College Basketball Analyst. The evening included a robust program, and the V Foundation announced the naming of the research grant of 2025 V Foundation grantee and University of Chicago Medicine Comprehensive Cancer Center scientist Martina Damo, Ph.D., in honor of Tre’s mother, Debbie Jones, a breast cancer survivor. Dr. Damo’s research focuses on improving immunotherapy options for cancer patients, and the grant is officially “Funded by V Foundation Chicago Epicurean in honor of the Debbie Jones Family.”

“It’s an honor for me to be involved with the V Foundation and the Chicago Epicurean event,” said Tre Jones. “I’m thrilled to be here and this opportunity to dive into Chicago’s community and support lifesaving cancer research is special. My entire family was impacted by cancer through my mom’s battle, and we’re proud to advocate for research advancements that give more families hope.”

The live auction’s top lots included “From the Swamp to the Big Apple: Gators Football & Basketball VIP Adventure”, “VIP Windy City Basketball Adventure” and “2025 Ryder Cup Championship Sunday: Rao’s VIP Table Experience”. The excitement continued through the Fund-a-Need paddle raise, a special call for Cancer Prevention and Interception funding. In total, the event raised over $3.1 million for lifesaving cancer research across two years.

Overall, the V Foundation for Cancer Research has awarded nearly $14 million across four Chicago-based cancer research institutions. Thanks to an endowment covering operating expenses, 100% of direct donations go toward cancer research.

The V Foundation for Cancer Research Chicago Epicurean was proudly sponsored by John Anthony Vineyards, CJD Civil Construction, Program Productions, Loop Capital, Perillo Automotive Group, William Blair and Wintrust.

The 3rd Annual Chicago Epicurean is set for September 18-19, 2026. For more information, visit v.org/chicagoepic.

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(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 nearly $400 million in game-changing cancer research grants in North America through a competitive process strictly supervised by a world-class Scientific Advisory Committee. The V Foundation has been awarded 13 consecutive 4-star ratings (out of 4) by Charity Navigator, placing it in the top 2% of all charities evaluated. 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:

Jeff Friday
V Foundation for Cancer Research
[email protected], 704-214-1033

Alex Paterson
V Foundation for Cancer Research
[email protected], 214-695-7993