This post was written by Hatchet Staff Writer Lauren Hoenemeyer.
GW’s Sixth Annual Cancer Gala will honor Senator Edward Kennedy, Rachel Brem and GW trustee Jeanette Michael on April 25 at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel.
Sen. Kennedy, who has been diagnosed with brain cancer, will receive the Cancer Compassion Award because of his involvement in pushing for affordable health care on Capitol Hill.
Chairman of the GW Board of Trustees Russell Ramsey, one of the premier sponsors of the gala along with his wife Norma, said, “There is nothing we do as a Board that exceeds this gala. All of us have been affected some way or another by a friend or family member having cancer, so it is important to contribute and participate.”
“As you can imagine over his tenure, [Kennedy] has had many accomplishments,” trustee Mark Hughes said at the March Board meeting
Kennedy will not be the only person honored at the gala.
Rachel Brem will receive the Commitment to Overcoming Cancer Award recipient for her contributions in GW’s medical center as the director of Breast Imaging and Intervention, professor of radiology, and vice-chair of the Department of Radiology.
Survivor of a seven-year battle with breast cancer, Jeanette Michael will be awarded the Spirit of Life Award. This award is given to cancer survivors who have overcome significant obstacles.
Proceeds from the gala will aid comprehensive cancer programs in the D.C. area.
“I can’t think of anything the school does where funds really are used to promote educational programs like this one,” said GW trustee Allan From. “We as a Board need to celebrate this most worthwhile endeavor.”
Wolf Blitzer, CNN’s host of ”The Situation Room,” will be the emcee of the evening and live entertainment will be provided by Grammy-award winning musician Al Petteway and Amy White.
The event is chaired by University President Steven Knapp and Senator Michael Enzi and hosted by University Provost and Vice President of Health Affairs Dr. John Williams.
Dr. Cyrus and Myrtle Katzen and Dr. Bernard and Mildred Katzen are the principal benefactors of the gala.
Tickets to attend the gala cost $500. For more information, visit www.gwcancergala.org.
