A Night Of Science & Giving: $1.6 Million Raised For Cancer Research At Waxman Foundation Gala

The Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation hosted its 28th Annual Collaborating for a Cure fundraiser, A Celebration of Breakthroughs, at Apella in New York City. The event raised $1.6 million, including a dollar-for-dollar match through the partnership with The Mark Foundation for Cancer Research. Funds raised will support new scientific research grants starting in early 2026.

Celebrating nearly 50 years of funding crucial cancer research, the event also marked a new milestone for the Foundation — the official launch of the Samuel Waxman Institute for Aging & Cancer. This first-of-its-kind organization will bring together 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. 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,” said Dr. Samuel Waxman.

The event honored Robert Wiener, Chairman Emeritus of Maxx Properties, as Philanthropist of the Year, Jean Shafiroff, Philanthropist, author, and TV personality as Philanthropist of the Year, and Dr. Jeffrey Settleman, Senior Vice President and Chief Scientific Officer, Oncology Research and Development at Pfizer, with the Breakthrough Science Award.

The elegant evening included live musical performances by Shayna Steele (“Hairspray,” “Rent,” “Hair” on Broadway) and John Riddle (“Phantom of the Opera,” “Frozen on Broadway”) accompanied by pianist Dan Micciche, music director and conductor for “WICKED” on Broadway.

The Collaborating for a Cure dinner unites leaders in business, science, fashion, and entertainment. In addition to the live performances and dinner, guests participated in a thrilling live auction that included dinner for four at Rao’s, a 10-day cruise with Seabourn, and a VIP Gameday Experience with the NY Knicks, to name a few.

Attendees 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.