October 30, 2023, Napa, CA — The V Foundation for Cancer Research has honored Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York, by announcing the Sarah Ferguson V Scholar Grant for Breast Cancer Research.
Under the guidance of the V Foundation Scientific Advisory Committee, the Duchess will help select a research grant recipient by the end of 2024. The V Foundation’s scientific advisory committee, whose members are leaders in the cancer research field, are responsible for evaluating and selecting the most promising research projects to receive funding.
The Duchess has been an advocate for cancer patients, survivors, and cancer research for decades through her work as a patron of the Teenage Cancer Trust and more recently her own foundation Sarah’s Trust, an initiative designed to bring together philanthropists and grassroots charities working in the field.
“I have supported the cause of cancer research through my work with the Teenage Cancer Trust and Sarah’s Trust for many years now, so it is a great honor for me to have this award announced in my name. My own recent illness was detected and treated using the very latest in medical technology that is the result of the hard work of scientists working in this field, and I could not be more grateful,” the Duchess said. “I am looking forward to working with the V Foundation’s Scientific Advisory Committee in selecting the recipient of the grant.”
The grant was announced on October 27th at an intimate dinner at the home of long-time V Foundation supporters Michael and Carole Marks in Woodside, California. The special dinner was a part of a two-day visit organized by the V Foundation for the Duchess, who also attended the foundation’s annual Vintner Grant Honoree Luncheon the previous day in the Napa Valley.
The evening’s meal was prepared by one of the top restaurants in the Bay Area, The Village Pub, perfectly paired with wines provided by Cyril and Blakesley Chappellet of Chappellet Vineyards, past Vintner Grant Honorees of the V Foundation Wine Celebration. Two-time GRAMMY® winning group Time For Three entertained the attendees with their infectious blend of Americana, modern pop, and classical music. The funds raised at the event will support the Sarah Ferguson V Scholar Grant.
“We are thrilled to honor the Duchess with the creation of the Sarah Ferguson V Scholar Grant for Breast Cancer research,” stated Amy Marks Dornbusch, Chairwoman, V Foundation Wine Celebration. “In addition to being an incredibly delightful person, she has used her voice tirelessly as a beacon of hope for various philanthropic objectives across the globe. We are thrilled to be partnering with the Duchess to raise much needed funds for life saving cancer research.”
The evening’s event was sponsored by Stephen Silver Fine Jewelry.
“We are thrilled to have provided a little extra sparkle to the evening,” said Jared Silver, a V Foundation Board Member, President of Stephen Silver Fine Jewelry, which provided a suite of jewelry for the Duchess to wear at the event. “It is especially gratifying for us to see Silicon Valley philanthropy get this kind of recognition.”
For more information on the V Foundation for Cancer Research, or to support the Sarah Ferguson V Scholar Grant for Breast Cancer Research, please visit v.org.
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(Images available upon request)
About Sarah’s Trust
Sarah’s Trust was founded by the Duchess of York who has been involved in humanitarian and charitable work for over thirty years. The goal of Sarah’s Trust is to ensure that funds are directed towards those who need it the most. Through its initiatives, the charity aims to make a positive impact on society and contribute towards improving the lives of people in need. In addition to its own charitable initiatives, Sarah’s Trust serves as an important intermediary between individuals who have the financial means and social responsibility to give philanthropically, and charities that are effective and innovative in their approach. Sarah’s Trust works directly to support vulnerable individuals and communities both in the UK and overseas, which is a testament to its commitment to creating positive change.
About the V Foundation for Cancer Research
The V Foundation for Cancer Research was founded in 1993 by ESPN and the late Jim Valvano, legendary North Carolina State University basketball coach, and ESPN commentator. The V Foundation has funded over $310 million in game-changing cancer research grants nationwide through a competitive process strictly supervised by a world-class Scientific Advisory Committee. Because the V Foundation has an endowment to cover administrative expenses, 100% of direct donations are awarded to cancer research and programs. The V team is committed to accelerating Victory Over Cancer®. To learn more, visit v.org.
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