The V Foundation for Cancer Research, a top-rated cancer research charity, is pleased to announce NBA Hall of Famer David Robinson, ESPN President James Pitaro and Chase Communications Founder Julie Chase as the newest members to its Board of Directors.
“Our Board of Directors is vital to the success of our organization,” said Susan Braun, Chief Executive Officer of the V Foundation. “They provide leadership, guidance and hard work in the fight against cancer, and it is a privilege to welcome David, James and Julie to our team.”
Along with being named one of the 50 greatest players in NBA history and a member of the International Basketball Federation Hall of Fame, David Robinson, nicknamed “The Admiral,” and his wife Valerie, have successfully tackled philanthropic initiatives in San Antonio, Texas. Robinson also co-founded the Admiral Capital Group in 2007, built around his long-standing values and integrity, the framework for Admiral’s sustainable business model brought together an interest in private equity and a desire to make a positive impact.
“I am thrilled to join the amazing work being done by the V Foundation to end cancer,” said Robinson. “We have an impressive team of research experts, and I have no doubt that we will find a cure.”
James Pitaro served eight years as a top Disney executive before he was named ESPN president and co-chair of Disney Media Networks in March 2018. Pitaro has been successful in leading businesses focused on consumer products, digital initiatives and sports. He successfully led the turnaround of the digital media and gaming division as president of Disney Interactive and was previously in charge of, and set strategy and executed growth-driving initiatives for, Yahoo!’s media properties, including Yahoo! Sports.
“The V Foundation has been deeply ingrained in the ESPN culture since its inception, and the Foundation’s continued progress in the cancer fight is a source of great pride for our employees,” said Pitaro. “It’s truly an honor to become a V board member and represent the passion and year-round efforts of the ESPN team. I look forward to exchanging ideas with so many thoughtful and smart leaders that comprise the board, while collaborating with the Foundation’s exceptional staff.”
Originally a Washington, D.C., native, Julie Chase moved to San Francisco where she founded Chase Communications in 1997, and expanded the firm back to D.C. in 2007, where it was eventually acquired by a local firm. She subsequently spun out of that firm and now runs ChasePR, maintaining media relations and marketing communications nationally with expertise in strategy, crisis, advocacy and event planning across real estate development, healthcare, consumer and financial services.
“I have been deeply impressed with the V Foundation since my first introduction in 2011 when I saw firsthand the commitment of the board, scientific advisors and attendees to the Wine Celebration,” said Chase. “The integrity of the leadership in their advance of cancer research is powerful and palpable – clearly impacting the strides for cures. I am honored to be included on this distinguished board and look forward to supporting these efforts and achievements.”
The Board of Directors for the V Foundation for Cancer Research was originally established in 1993. The Board is comprised of elite business leaders, award-winning athletes and coaches, distinguished physicians and world-renowned entertainers. Their purpose is to provide governance to insure the sustainability and long-term effectiveness of the V Foundation while upholding its core principles.
For more information about the V Foundation and its Board of Directors, please visit www.jimmyv.org/about/leadership.
