Tags: News|Press Release

The V Foundation for Cancer Research, a top-rated cancer research charity, is excited to announce a partnership with NetOne Recruiter to support critical cancer research. NetOne Recruiter, a digital recruiting company, will donate 1% of gross sales to the V Foundation through December 31, 2021.

“The V Foundation is building a presence in the digital marketplace, including business-to-business,” said Norm Bowling, Chief Revenue and Marketing Officer. “We are excited to partner with NetOne to gain more exposure for our brand in the ever-growing gig economy. And we sincerely appreciate NetOne’s generous support as we strive to achieve Victory Over Cancer®.”

NetOne Recruiter powers the gig economy by connecting talent leaders directly to on-demand contract recruiters through an easy-to-use, seamless, digital marketplace. This gives talent leaders the ability to scale quickly; and for contract recruiters, it is their home to find more gigs, maximize their worth and increase their client engagement.

“We are excited and honored to partner with the V Foundation, joining the fight to find a cure for cancer,” said Bill Peters, Managing Partner of NetOne Recruiter. “We have a tremendous opportunity to leverage NetOne Recruiter’s platform as a means to promote and support this cause, and we look forward to a long-lasting relationship.”

The V Foundation has proudly awarded more than $250 million for cutting-edge cancer research. The V Foundation holds a 4-star (highest) rating from Charity Navigator, America’s largest evaluator of charities, and is among the top 3% of all charities evaluated. The V Foundation is a GuideStar platinum-rated charity.

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 and ESPN commentator. The Foundation has funded more than $250 million in cancer research grants nationwide. The V Foundation awards 100% of direct donations to cancer research and programs. The V Foundation’s endowment covers administrative expenses. The Foundation awards peer-reviewed grants through a competitive award process strictly supervised by a Scientific Advisory Committee.

About NetOne Recruiter 

NetOne Recruiter provides a game-changing digital marketplace that significantly improves Talent Acquisition Leaders’ ability to scale recruiting capacity and deliver on changes in hiring demand with speed.  This platform provides companies with on-demand digital access to its community of Gig Recruiters, engaging with them as a dedicated extension of their Talent Acquisition Team for whatever duration they are needed.  For Gig Recruiters, this is their new home to find more gigs, maximize their worth and increase client engagement.  Founded in 2019, NetOne Recruiter is headquartered in Atlanta, GA and conducts business in the United States.  For more information about NetOne Recruiter, please visit NetOneRecruiter.com.

The V Foundation for Cancer Research, a top-rated cancer research charity, announces the American Cornhole League (ACL) and Johnsonville are teaming up to raise $100,000 for the Robin Roberts Cancer Thrivership Fund with their #TrickShotsForGood challenge. There are 17 million cancer survivors in the U.S., and that number is expected to grow. The Robin Roberts Cancer Thrivership Fund provides support for urgently needed research into the biological basis and prevention of common long-term adverse effects experienced by cancer survivors.

The challenge kicked off on May 23 with the American Cornhole League Pro Invitational Qualifier airing on ESPN, and it will last for five weeks. Throughout the challenge, participants can post a video of a cornhole “trick shot” and tag @Johnsonville with the hashtag #TrickShotsforGood. Johnsonville will donate $1 to the V Foundation for each post, up to $100,000 total. While cornhole-specific trick shots are encouraged, fans who utilize other sports equipment or household items for their videos will also be counted.

In addition, the ACL will review all tagged #TrickShotsForGood posts and choose a few favorite trick shots each week to be featured during its weekend broadcast on ESPN.

“Cornhole and sausage on the grill are staples of backyard fun. We are thrilled to put those two things to work raising money for such a terrific cause and cannot wait to see what kind of creative trick shots America pulls off,” said Jamie Schmelzer, Johnsonville’s Integrated Marketing Director.

When fans post their trick shots, they’ll be joining the ranks of ACL stars, various celebrities and other online personalities. All participants who post their trick shot videos will be entered for a chance to win official ACL gear, such as official ACL boards, bags and apparel, and may also be featured during the ACL Pro Invitational Qualifier on ESPN.

“On behalf of our six ACL Pro cancer survivors and countless other impacted members that continue to thrive during these difficult times, the ACL cornhole community is excited to support the V Foundation in partnership with Johnsonville and ESPN,” said Stacey Moore, Commissioner of the American Cornhole League. “This is an extremely personal campaign for me. Having a mom who is a two-time breast cancer survivor, a father who unfortunately lost his battle and also being a graduate of NC State University, I am honored to play a small role in such a large effort.”

The ACL and Johnsonville are proud to support research for cancer survivorship, as survivors often endure health challenges and have unique biomedical needs long after their cancer treatment has ended. During the current COVID-19 health crisis, cancer patients, in addition to survivors, are especially vulnerable. Jim Valvano’s “Don’t Ever Give Up!” spirit is felt now more than ever, as we join together to support cancer research by helping a vulnerable community stay healthy.

“How exciting to team up with Johnsonville and the American Cornhole League to help 17 million cancer survivors,” said Susan Braun, Chief Executive Officer of the V Foundation. “We are grateful for their support and look forward to all the fun trick shots coming! We thank them for uniting so many people to raise money for those who have faced cancer. And the timing of this couldn’t be better as we recognize National Cancer Survivors Month in June.”

The V Foundation has proudly awarded more than $250 million for cutting-edge cancer research. The V Foundation holds a 4-star (highest) rating from Charity Navigator, America’s largest evaluator of charities, and is among the top 3% of all charities evaluated. The V Foundation is a GuideStar platinum-rated charity.

For more information on the V Foundation for Cancer Research, please visit v.org.

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 and ESPN commentator. The Foundation has funded more than $250 million in cancer research grants nationwide. The V Foundation awards 100% of direct donations to cancer research and programs. The V Foundation’s endowment covers administrative expenses. The Foundation awards peer-reviewed grants through a competitive awards process strictly supervised by a Scientific Advisory Committee. For more information on the V Foundation or to make a donation, please visit v.org.

About the American Cornhole League

The American Cornhole League (ACL), the originators of televised competitive cornhole, promotes and develops cornhole as a sport for any age and skill level. With over 350 directors all around the country, the ACL has solidified themselves as the go-to resource for all things cornhole. The organization has established the rules and regulations to govern the sports around the world. The ACL’s global headquarters are in Charlotte, North Carolina. For further information on the ACL or how to become a director, please visit the Company’s website at https://www.iplaycornhole.com/.

About Johnsonville, LLC

Wisconsin-based Johnsonville is the No. 1 national sausage brand, featuring: brats, Italian sausage, smoke-cooked links, breakfast sausage, summer sausage, and meatballs. Johnsonville products are served in more than 40 countries and in more than 140 professional, college and semi-pro sports stadiums throughout the U.S. Johnsonville employs approximately 2,100 members. Founded in 1945 by the late Ralph F. and Alice Stayer, the privately held company remains family owned today. For additional information, visit www.johnsonville.com.

About ESPN Corporate Citizenship
ESPN believes, at its very best, sports uplifts the human spirit. Its corporate citizenship programs use the power of sport to positively address society’s needs through strategic community investments, cause marketing programs, collaboration with sports organizations and employee volunteerism, while also utilizing its diverse media assets. For more information go to www.espn.com/citizenship.

The V Foundation for Cancer Research, a top-rated cancer research charity, is joining nonprofits around the world on May 5 to participate in #GivingTuesdayNow, a global day of giving and unity. This day is organized by #GivingTuesday and is in addition to the annual #GivingTuesday event that takes place this year on December 1.

#GivingTuesdayNow is for nonprofits and organizations around the world to inspire their communities to activate – whether through sharing kindness and joy, helping others in their area or donating to a cause. The V Foundation will use this day to highlight cancer research and spotlight Jim Valvano’s rallying cry, “Don’t Give Up . . . Don’t Ever Give Up!”®

“The V Foundation is grateful for the opportunity to join thousands of nonprofits in our quest to make this world a better place,” said Susan Braun, Chief Executive Officer at the V Foundation. “For us, the goal is simple: Victory Over Cancer®. We see what a difficult time this is to have cancer and be treated. And we also know this is a time of great hope and generosity, sentiments we channel into action by funding life-saving cancer research.”

#GivingTuesdayNow is a day for everyone around the world to stand together and make positive changes in the lives of others, including helping to achieve Victory Over Cancer®. There are a variety of ways to support the V Foundation during #GivingTuesdayNow including:

• Visit org/unite to print out a “Don’t Ever Give Up” window sign to hang for your neighbors to see.
• Share images of your own unique “Don’t Ever Give Up” spirit on social media. Tag @TheVFoundation so others can see!
• Help stop cancer by donating at v.org.

The V Foundation has proudly awarded more than $250 million for cutting-edge cancer research. The V Foundation holds a 4-star (highest) rating from Charity Navigator, America’s largest evaluator of charities, and is among the top 3% of all charities evaluated. The V Foundation is a GuideStar platinum-rated charity.

The V Foundation for Cancer Research, a top-rated cancer research charity, announced the third annual Victory Ride to Cure Cancer presented by Braswell Family Farms, a one-day charity cycling event, previously scheduled for May, will take place on September 5, 2020. The event was postponed to ensure the health and safety of riders, volunteers and everyone involved during the COVID-19 situation.

The Victory Ride provides 10-, 30-, 60- and 100-mile routes beginning and ending on NC State University’s Centennial Campus and winding through scenic central North Carolina. Additionally, participants can choose a 45-minute, on-site cycling class featuring an instructor from CycleBar Brier Creek, or they may join as a virtual rider. Riders and volunteers will celebrate together with local breweries, food trucks and live music following the ride.

“We are so pleased that the Ride will go on! So many participants, volunteers and sponsors have worked hard at the success of the Victory Ride — and that success means more power in the fight against cancer,” said Susan Braun, CEO of the V Foundation. “We hope to have a record turn out to help us accelerate Victory Over Cancer^®.”

Each rider will raise a minimum of $250 for cancer research, with 100% of rider-raised funds benefiting cancer research at Duke Cancer Institute, UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center and the Wake Forest Baptist Health Comprehensive Cancer Center, as well as breakthrough cancer research nationwide.

“Rescheduling the Victory Ride is the right decision for the health and safety of everyone involved,” said Scott Clausson, TrialCard team member. “The new date allows us even more time to recruit new riders and raise additional funds for cancer research. Everyone involved in this community event is incredibly passionate about the cause. We look forward to participating in the event in September.”

In the first two years of the event, riders have raised nearly $500,000 for breakthrough cancer research. For more information about the Victory Ride to Cure Cancer, please visit thevictoryride.org. Follow the Victory Ride on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram at @TheVictoryRide.

The V Foundation for Cancer Research, a top-rated cancer research charity, and ESPN Hall of Fame Sportscaster Dick Vitale announced the 15^th Annual Dick Vitale Gala, previously scheduled for May, will take place on September 4, 2020, at The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota in Florida. The health and well-being of event attendees and employees is the V Foundation’s number one priority during the COVID-19 situation.

Vitale is a true champion for pediatric cancer research, raising nearly $30 million to date for the pediatric fund in his name at the V Foundation. Overall, the V Foundation has awarded nearly $50 million in pediatric research grants. This year’s event will honor Gonzaga University Men’s Basketball Head Coach Mark Few, ESPN commentator Stephen A. Smith and Tampa Bay Buccaneers Head Coach Bruce Arians.

“We are very sorry for the change of date, but we want to be careful about the pandemic caused by the COVID virus,” said Vitale. “The evening will still be a night filled with laughter, tears and thoughts. Yes, those are the three things that Jimmy V stated in his legendary “Don’t Give Up . . . Don’t Ever Give Up!”® speech. Please help us raise big dollars to help kids battling cancer. September is Pediatric Cancer Awareness Month and I know everyone will help deliver a slam dunk against children’s cancer on this special evening.”

In addition to hosting the event’s honorees, Vitale will celebrate his “All Courageous Team” of cancer patients. He will also recognize two special guests with the 2020 John Saunders V Foundation Courage Award. Pat Williams, basketball Hall of Famer, co-founder of the NBA’s Orlando Magic and former general manager of the Philadelphia 76ers, and NFL Hall of Famer Jim Kelly will be this year’s honorees.

Best-selling author Mitch Albom will be a special guest of the event. A pediatric cancer research grant will be named in memory of Chika Jeune, for whom Albom was a guardian. She was born three days before the devastating earthquakes in Haiti and lived in an orphanage Albom operates in Port-au-Prince. At five years old, she was diagnosed with DIPG, an inoperable brain tumor, which began a two-year, around-the-world journey by Albom and his wife to find a cure.

“Postponing the Dick Vitale Gala to September allows us all to focus on the current COVID-19 health crisis, but still gives us an opportunity to support a critical need – research for children’s cancer,” said Susan Braun, CEO of the V Foundation. “We lose far too many children to cancer every year. Dick and Lorraine Vitale are so committed to stopping pediatric cancer and supporting young patients. We applaud their efforts to do so in the safest way possible.”

The V Foundation has proudly awarded more than $250 million for cutting-edge cancer research. The V Foundation holds a 4-star (highest) rating from Charity Navigator, America’s largest evaluator of charities, and is among the top 3% of all charities evaluated. The V Foundation is a GuideStar platinum-rated charity.

For more information about the 15^th Annual Dick Vitale Gala, please visit v.org/vitale. To purchase tickets, please call the Gala line at Mary Kenealy Events at (941) 350-0580.

The V Foundation for Cancer Research, a top-rated cancer research charity, is thrilled to announce fundraising initiatives to coincide with March college basketball tournaments. V Foundation partners, including Constellation Brands, Applebee’s Mid-Atlantic and Delta Chi Fraternity, will offer opportunities for supporters to help fund the nation’s most innovative cancer research.

“March is truly a time of collaboration for the V Foundation,” said Susan Braun, CEO of the V Foundation. “Outstanding partnerships play out, bringing more attention to the importance of cancer research and funds for outstanding V Foundation cancer research grants. Our partners drive the month, moving us closer to the big prize – Victory Over Cancer®!”

Since 2010, Constellation Brands, the company behind the iconic beer, wine and spirits that consumers have enjoyed for more than 70 years, and its network of distributor partners, have contributed more than $17.5 million in donations to the V Foundation.

This year, Constellation Brands Beer Division will launch its 10^th annual fundraising initiative, 2020 Team Up for Victory Over Cancer.  The campaign, featuring Gold Network Distributors, will run through March. In addition, Constellation Brands Wine Division launched its annual campaign that gives consumers in the southeast region a chance to win an all-inclusive trip to the ESPYs in Los Angeles. Consumers can register for the sweepstakes at participating Harris Teeter locations in the southeast through April 15.

“Constellation Brands and its business partners across the USA are thrilled to be proud supporters of the V Foundation for Cancer Research,” said Jim Ryan, Senior Vice President, Corporate Affairs, Constellation Brands.  “To have the opportunity to raise dollars to fund cutting edge research that will one day rid this world of cancer means being part of something truly life changing…. making a difference for generations to come.”

Applebee’s Mid-Atlantic has raised over $1.6 million for pediatric cancer research since 2006. The group operates 69 Applebee’s Neighborhood Bar & Grill restaurants across North Carolina and South Carolina. The 14^th annual March Hoops Fundraiser encourages diners to donate at least $1 to the V Foundation. For each $1 donation, guests receive a paper basketball to personalize and hang in the restaurant. In the spirit of tournament season, guests are given the option to choose from several paper basketballs that represent universities in their area. In addition, for every $5 donation, guests will receive two $5 coupons and a free appetizer coupon to use during future visits following the campaign, which runs through April 6.

“It is an honor to continue our 14-year partnership with the V Foundation,” said Elizabeth McGee, Vice President of Company Operations, Applebee’s Mid-Atlantic.  “Cancer affects many lives in our Applebee’s family and the neighborhoods in which we serve. We are committed to helping fund research for innovative treatments to find a cure for this terrible disease. I cannot imagine a more worthy cause to champion in our restaurants.”

Finally, the Delta Chi International Fraternity has a longstanding partnership with the V Foundation. Since 2006, the fraternity has raised more than $1.8 million for cancer research. This year, Delta Chi launched the Delta Chi Bracket Challenge involving 113 chapters across North America. The chapter that raises the most money for cancer research through this challenge will be awarded the Delta Chi Bracket Challenge Cup, and the top ten fundraising chapters will be entered to win two tickets to the Jimmy V Classic in New York City. The individual with the top performing bracket through the international Delta Chi Bracket Challenge will win an all-expenses paid trip for two to the 2020 ESPYs.

The V Foundation holds a 4-star (highest) rating from Charity Navigator, America’s largest evaluator of charities, and is among the top 3% of all charities evaluated. The V Foundation is a GuideStar platinum-rated charity.

The V Foundation for Cancer Research, a top-rated cancer research charity, and ESPN Hall of Fame Sportscaster Dick Vitale are pleased to announce the 15^th Annual Dick Vitale Gala will be held May 8 at the Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota in Florida. Vitale is a true champion for pediatric cancer research, raising nearly $30 million to date for the pediatric fund in his name at the V Foundation. This year’s event will honor Gonzaga University Men’s Basketball Head Coach Mark Few, ESPN commentator Stephen A. Smith and Tampa Bay Buccaneers Head Coach Bruce Arians.

“Jimmy V, in his famous ESPY speech, stated that every day you should be moved to tears, laughter and thought,” said Vitale. “I will guarantee that at the Gala on May 8, the crowd of over 900 will feel all of those emotions. It is such a spectacular night, as I love watching our guest celebrities mingle with everyone, and especially when they share time with my ALL COURAGEOUS TEAM, which features a number of youngsters who are cancer survivors. My heart fills with joy seeing the generosity and kindness of all those who participate and make our event such a special night.”

Each year, Vitale recruits the biggest names in sports and entertainment to his event, raising the awareness and support needed to defeat pediatric cancer. Just four percent of federal cancer research funding is dedicated to pediatric cancer. Private funding is critical to propelling research for this leading cause of death by disease in American children. Vitale leads the V Foundation’s pediatric cancer research initiative with this annual Gala. The V Foundation has awarded nearly $50 million in pediatric research grants.

This year, Vitale and the V Foundation are excited to honor three notable sports figures. Few, a successful coach in NCAA Division I men’s basketball, has led Gonzaga to the 2018 national championship game, three Elite Eight appearances and nine Sweet 16 appearances. Smith is a sports journalist and the featured commentator on ESPN’s “First Take,” offering his unique perspectives on the world of sports and much more. Arians is a two-time recipient of the NFL Coach of the Year award and has a well-earned reputation of pushing his teams to success.

In addition to honoring his All Courageous Team of cancer patients, Vitale will recognize two special guests with the 2020 John Saunders V Foundation Courage Award. Pat Williams, basketball Hall of Famer, co-founder of the NBA’s Orlando Magic and former general manager of the Philadelphia 76ers, and NFL Hall of Famer Jim Kelly will be this year’s honorees.

Best-selling author Mitch Albom will be a special guest of the event. A pediatric cancer research grant will be named in memory of Chika Jeune, for whom Albom was a guardian. She was born three days before the devastating earthquakes in Haiti and lived in an orphanage Albom operates in Port-au-Prince. At five years old, she was diagnosed with DIPG, an inoperable brain tumor, which began a two-year, around-the-world journey by Albom and his wife to find a cure.

“We need to find cures for cancer; and we need to save our children,” said Susan Braun, CEO of the V Foundation for Cancer Research. “No one knows this better than Dick and Lorraine Vitale. Their work with the V Foundation is legendary, inspiring hope in all.”

The V Foundation has proudly awarded more than $250 million for cutting-edge cancer research. The V Foundation holds a 4-star (highest) rating from Charity Navigator, America’s largest evaluator of charities, and is among the top 3% of all charities evaluated. The V Foundation is a GuideStar platinum-rated charity.

For more information about the 15^th Annual Dick Vitale Gala, please visit www.v.org/vitale. To purchase tickets, please call the Gala line at (941) 350-0580.

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 and ESPN commentator. The Foundation has funded more than $250 million in cancer research grants nationwide. Event proceeds benefit cancer research funded by the V Foundation. The Foundation awards peer-reviewed grants through a competitive award process strictly supervised by a Scientific Advisory Committee. For more information on the V Foundation or to make a donation, please visit www.v.org.

The V Foundation for Cancer Research, a top-rated cancer research charity, announces awarding $29 million for cutting-edge cancer research in 2019. The total grant funding by the Foundation is now more than $250 million. The highly competitive grant-making process is overseen by the V Foundation’s Scientific Advisory Committee, made up of world-class researchers from leading cancer centers. This rigorous process ensures proposals meet the highest standards of scientific merit.

The V Foundation awarded 26 V Scholar Grants in 2019. V Scholar Grants advance innovative young scientists establishing their research careers and provide them a competitive edge to earn additional funding from other sources. Each V Scholar Grant is a $200,000, two-year commitment. Four V Scholars were funded through the Stuart Scott Memorial Cancer Research Fund. V Scholars supported through the Stuart Scott Fund are early career investigators who are either minority themselves or working to solve health challenges faced by minorities with cancer.

“I am thrilled to be selected for the V Scholar Grant as an early-stage investigator,” said Viviana Risca, Ph.D., a V Scholar Grant recipient. “The recognition and infusion of financial support it represents will serve as a major boost for my group’s research into the way sarcoma cells respond to therapy that arrests their ability to divide.”

In 2019, the V Foundation awarded 17 Translational Grants. Translational Grants fund projects that bring cancer research from the bench to the bedside. Translational Grants are $600,000 awards distributed over three years. Moving forward, the V Foundation will name two top translational research grants each year in honor of former V Foundation CEO Nick Valvano and former Scientific Advisory Committee Chair Robert Bast, M.D. The awards honor Valvano and Bast for their many years of service to the V Foundation.

“The V Foundation supports some of the country’s most promising young cancer researchers as they begin their careers exploring ways to better understand cancer and how to stop it,” said William Nelson, M.D., Ph.D., Chair of the V Foundation’s Scientific Advisory Committee, Marion I. Knott Professor of Oncology and Director of the Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins. “Through thoughtful investments in the right people and projects, the V Foundation is propelling progress. For the patient, that means better ways to detect cancers, more treatment options and a better chance at long-term survival.”

The V Foundation holds a 4-star (highest) rating from Charity Navigator, America’s largest evaluator of charities, and is among the top 3% of all charities evaluated. The V Foundation is a GuideStar platinum-rated charity.

The V Foundation for Cancer Research, a top-rated cancer research charity, is excited to announce Jay Bilas and Sage Steele have been named as the newest members of the Foundation’s Board of Directors. Bilas, a lawyer and college basketball analyst, has been with ESPN since 1995 in multiple roles, including co-host of “College GameDay.” Steele has been with ESPN since 2007, hosting multiple shows including lead role for “SportsCenter on the Road.” Steele is one of ESPN’s most popular and respected commentators, and Bilas is known for his knowledge of the game and his professional, clever style.

“It’s an honor to welcome Sage and Jay to our team,” said Steven Bornstein, V Foundation Chairman of the Board. “Their relationship with ESPN, coupled with their passion for the V Foundation, make Sage and Jay ideal Board members for furthering our mission to achieve Victory Over Cancer®. They will continue our long-standing tradition of having exemplary ESPN on-air personalities on our Board, like Dick Vitale and the late John Saunders.”

Bilas, a graduate of Duke University, was a four-year starter on the men’s basketball team under Mike Krzyzewski from 1982-1986 and was a member of the 1986 ACC Championship team and the 1986 NCAA Championship team. Bilas also played against Jim Valvano’s 1983 National Championship team. Following his college career, Bilas was drafted by the NBA’s Dallas Mavericks and played professionally overseas in Italy and Spain. In 1990, Bilas returned to Duke as an assistant coach under Krzyzewski while earning his law degree from Duke. During his time as an assistant coach, Duke won back-to-back National Championships in 1991 and 1992. Bilas is a four-time Emmy nominee, a three-time best analyst in college basketball and a New York Times bestselling author of Toughness: Developing True Strength On and Off the Court.

Steele, a graduate of Indiana University, is the co-host on the 6 p.m. “SportsCenter.” She previously covered the Indianapolis Colts, the Indiana Pacers, the 1997 NCAA Men’s Final Four, NASCAR and the IndyCar Series. In Tampa, Fla., she covered the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the 1999 NCAA Men’s Final Four and Super Bowl XXXV. Steele debuted Comcast SportsNet in Washington, D.C. and anchored “SportsNite” for six years, in addition to acting as the beat reporter for the Baltimore Ravens. Prior to moving to her current role, Steele anchored “SportsCenter:AM” and hosted “NBA Countdown.” Steele has co-hosted the Miss America pageant, was a featured guest on ABC’s “The View” and contributes to Disney-owned Babble. She has been a guest on “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” and profiled in Rolling Stone, The Wall Street Journal, Vibe and HuffPost.

The V Foundation for Cancer Research was founded by ESPN and Jim Valvano in 1993. Bilas and Steele join a stellar V Foundation Board, comprised of business leaders, award-winning athletes and coaches, distinguished physicians and world-renowned entertainers. The Board provides governance to ensure the sustainability and long-term effectiveness of the V Foundation while upholding its core principles.