Inaugural V Foundation for Cancer Research Phoenix Epicurean Raises Over $1.1 Million for Game-Changing Cancer Research
PHOENIX, AZ (April 27, 2026) The V Foundation for Cancer Research celebrated its inaugural V Foundation for Cancer Research Phoenix Epicurean, a two-day experience held April 24–25 that raised more than $1.1 million to fund lifesaving cancer research. The weekend showcased extraordinary culinary talent, world-class wines, and many of Phoenix’s luxury venues, but the true focus was uniting attendees with a shared mission: accelerate Victory Over Cancer® and save lives.
With 100% of event net proceeds going directly to cancer research through the V Foundation, funds raised at Phoenix Epicurean will support scientists at leading cancer centers across North America who are advancing progress across all cancer types.
“Phoenix Epicurean proves what is possible when a community comes together with purpose – transforming generosity into real momentum for cancer research,” said Brandi Williams Broome, CEO at the V Foundation. “The funds raised will accelerate groundbreaking science and lifesaving treatments for patients and families who need them most.”
The weekend was marked with moments highlighting both the urgency and hope for high-risk, high-impact cancer research. During Saturday’s Conversations for a Cure, V Foundation-funded grantees Kaitlin Basham, Ph.D., of Huntsman Cancer Institute and Sarah Adams, M.D., of University of New Mexico Cancer Center shared the innovative work occurring in their labs, offering a powerful look at how their projects can change outcomes for patients and what opportunities are still ahead with continued investment in research.
The weekend also featured standout culinary and immersive moments that brought the community together, from the Vintner Showcase Reception to curated Epicurean Experiences, including customized chef-led demonstrations and wellness activations.
The Gala & Auction, hosted by NBA TV analyst Vinny Del Negro, served as the culminating event, as the program highlighted the V Foundation’s mission in action. Del Negro, who played basketball for V Foundation founder Jim Valvano at NC State, shared personal stories and how the V Foundation continues to honor Jim’s legacy.
A defining highlight of the evening was the recognition and remarks of Jerry Colangelo, whose decades-long sports leadership and philanthropy have positively impacted Arizona and beyond. A V Foundation grant was named in his honor, awarded to W. Nathaniel Brennen, Ph.D., of the Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins, supporting prostate cancer research.
“I knew Jim Valvano personally and I vividly remember the night he announced the V Foundation for Cancer Research. I can still feel his words, that moment, though many years have passed,” said Colangelo. “I’m asked several times per week to be honored for good causes. Of course I have to say ‘no’ to most, but it was an easy ‘yes’ for this. Knowing Jim and more importantly that the V Foundation is smartly putting money in critical research areas that will save lives, I’m all in. I’m a sports guy at my core and winning matters. We need a V for Victory Over Cancer®.”
The evening’s energy carried through the live auction featuring 12 one-of-a-kind packages. The auction kicked off with a Courtside Suns NBA Insider Experience with the event’s host Vinny Del Negro. Other top lots included a luxury trip to Jimmy V Week in New York City featuring Benovia and Valette Wines and a 2027 Sonoma Epicurean Culinary Experience with Bricoleur Vineyards.
As the newest addition to the V Foundation’s national signature event series, Phoenix Epicurean builds on the V Foundation’s deep and growing presence in the region. To date, the organization has awarded more than $13.7 million in grants to 48 exceptional researchers across the Southwest. The event was proudly sponsored by John Anthony Vineyards, Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame, and Sprouts.
The 2nd Annual V Foundation for Cancer Research Phoenix Epicurean is planned for April 2027. For more information, please visit v.org/phoenixepic.
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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 over $458 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 Phoenix Epicurean
In Phoenix, unity fuels impact. The V Foundation for Cancer Research Phoenix Epicurean is a unique signature event that unites a passionate community committed to supporting the best of the best in cancer research to accelerate Victory Over Cancer® and save lives.
Media Contacts:
Tom Fuller & Monty Sander
Fuller & Sander Communications
[email protected] 707.253.0868
[email protected] 707.253.8503
Alex Paterson
V Foundation for Cancer Research
[email protected]
