Dr. Samuel Waxman (second from Left) with Honorees Robert Wiener, Jean Shafiroff,
Jeffrey Settleman (Photo Credit: PMC / Paul Bruinooge)
New York’s philanthropic and scientific communities came together at Apella for the 28th Annual Collaborating for a Cure Gala, hosted by the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation (SWCRF). The elegant evening, themed A Celebration of Breakthroughs, raised an impressive $1.6 million, including a dollar-for-dollar match made possible through a partnership with The Mark Foundation for Cancer Research. Funds raised will help launch a new series of research grants beginning in early 2025—furthering the Foundation’s nearly 50-year mission to advance the understanding and treatment of cancer.
A Milestone Year for Cancer Research
The night also marked a defining moment in SWCRF’s history with the official launch of the Samuel Waxman Institute for Aging & Cancer, a groundbreaking initiative that will unite the world’s top scientists to study aging and cancer together.
“Aging is the greatest risk factor for cancer, yet we still have much to learn about how aging impacts cancer development and treatment,” said Dr. Samuel Waxman, Founder and CEO of SWCRF. “By uniting experts in both aging and cancer, we can uncover new ways to prevent and treat it. Thank you to all our supporters for making this vision possible.”
Honoring Leaders in Philanthropy and Science
The Foundation recognized three distinguished honorees whose work embodies the spirit of collaboration and innovation:
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Robert Wiener, Chairman Emeritus of Maxx Properties, was honored as Philanthropist of the Year for his lifelong dedication to charitable giving.
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Jean Shafiroff, noted philanthropist, author, and television personality, also received the Philanthropist of the Year Award for her tireless advocacy across numerous causes.
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Dr. Jeffrey Settleman, Senior Vice President and Chief Scientific Officer, Oncology Research and Development at Pfizer, was presented with the Breakthrough Science Award for his pioneering contributions to oncology research.
An Evening of Glamour and Generosity
The gala blended science, philanthropy, and art in signature New York fashion. Guests were treated to show-stopping musical performances by Shayna Steele (Hairspray, Rent, Hair on Broadway) and John Riddle (Phantom of the Opera, Frozen), accompanied by Dan Micciche, music director and conductor for Wicked on Broadway.
A highlight of the evening was the spirited live auction led by professional auctioneers, featuring exclusive experiences such as dinner for four at Rao’s, a 10-day luxury cruise with Seabourn, and a VIP Gameday Experience with the New York Knicks—all in support of SWCRF’s mission to bring us closer to a cure.
An Audience of Influential Supporters
The distinguished guest list included Dr. Samuel Waxman, Marion Waxman, Robert Wiener, Jean Shafiroff, Dr. Jeffrey Settleman, Mark D. Friedman, Maxine Friedman, Jamie Koff, Heidi Russo, Randi Schatz, Orital Karelic, NYS Assembly Member Rebecca A. Seawright, Shayna Steele, John Riddle, and Dan Micciche, among others—each lending their voice and support to a cause that transcends borders.
High-resolution images from the evening can be accessed here.
(Photo Credit: PMC / Paul Bruinooge)
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About the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation
For nearly five decades, the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation has been an international leader in cancer prevention and treatment. Through its pioneering “Institute Without Walls,” the Foundation funds and connects scientists worldwide to accelerate discoveries in identifying and correcting abnormal gene function that causes cancer, while developing minimally toxic treatments for patients.
Since its founding in 1976, SWCRF has awarded over $120 million to more than 200 researchers across the globe, fueling innovations that continue to redefine cancer research and patient care.
For more information, visit www.waxmancancer.org
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