Annual Gala raises record $1.176 million to benefit WVU Cancer Institute

FARMINGTON, Pa. — The WVU Cancer Institute Annual Gala ushered in a new era of growth, raising a record-breaking $1,176,329.70 to advance innovative, compassionate cancer care. 

More than 400 donors and friends gathered at Nemacolin Resort for the signature fundraising event, which attracted unprecedented interest in its 41st year. This year’s “Bloom” theme served as a celebration of hope and renewal. 

Proceeds from the April 17-19 event benefit the WVU Cancer Institute’s patient care, research, education, and outreach programs. Supporters and sponsors have contributed more than $14 million since the Gala’s inception in 1985.  

“An event that began as a thank you for our friends and donors has evolved into a weekend of celebration of past success and promise of a future where cancer is rare,” Hannah Hazard-Jenkins, M.D., executive chair and director of the WVU Cancer Institute, said.  

“From defining research programs and resources, collaborations internally and externally, access to lifesaving clinical trials across the entire network, and expansion of our clinical footprint, we have continued to change the landscape of cancer care, including patient outcomes.” 

The Gala has a rich history of welcoming unique special guests and entertainers to support the WVU Cancer Institute mission.  

West Virginia native and country-folk musician Charles Wesley Godwin joined attendees Saturday for an intimate afternoon conversation followed by an evening performance during the black-tie ball.  

Sisters Katherine Kallinis Berman and Sophie Kallinis LaMontagne, owners of Georgetown Bakery and former stars of the TLC show “DC Cupcakes,” hosted a confectionery demonstration and workshop, during which they shared their family’s personal story of cancer survivorship. 

This year’s fundraising total included another record sum — more than $278,000 — raised through a dedicated “Fund the Mission” campaign to support the purchase of advanced scalp-cooling systems for use across the WVU Cancer Institute network, which spans 20 locations across three states. The systems are worn by patients during chemotherapy to prevent or reduce hair loss.  

Longtime WVU Cancer Institute supporters Ben and Jo Statler were instrumental in the fundraising and planning efforts as co-chairs of the 2026 Spring Gala. 

“Ben and I were honored to serve as co-chairs and proud to stand alongside such a dedicated and compassionate community,” Jo Statler said. “The Gala exceeded every expectation. We are thankful to everyone who contributed to making this such a meaningful and record-setting success.” 

Nearly 50 sponsors contributed to the Gala’s success. Top sponsors include the Jean J. and Laurence S. DeLynn Foundation; Ben and Jo Statler; the Jeanne G. and Lawson W. Hamilton, Jr. Family Foundation; Kyle and Anna Pratt, in memory of Betty Puskar; WVU Medicine; the WVU Foundation; Doug Van Scoy, in memory of Pam Van Scoy; WVU Medicine United Hospital Center; Charles R. and Tanya K. Sutton Family; Infinity Electric; Mon Valley Integration; and the Hazard Family, in memory of Sprague W. Hazard. 

Visit Cancer.WVUMedicine.org/Giving for more information about supporting the WVU Cancer Institute.  

All contributions are made through the WVU Foundation, the nonprofit organization that receives and administers private donations on behalf of the University and its affiliated entities.