Wednesday, August 12, 2026

Hope Funds for Cancer Research Dinner Newport RI, August 6, 2026

 The Women & Science Committee of Hope Funds for Cancer Research hosted a black-tie dinner and program highlighting advances in cancer research on August 6 in Newport. Hope Funds, dedicated to advancing innovative research for difficult-to-treat cancers, welcomed 75 guests, including scientists, advisors, trustees, and supporters of the organization, at "Rough Point," the historic Newport home of the late philanthropist Doris Duke. The evening focused on scientific breakthroughs with an emphasis on the roles women have played in these advances, and raised nearly $180,000 for postdoctoral fellowships in cancer research. Keynote speakers were Hope Funds alumni Drs. Maya Emmons-Bell, Jordan Krall, Bluma Lesch and Alexander Peterson, and a past Hope Funds Honoree and Mentor, Nobel Laureate William G. Kaelin, MD. Opening remarks were made by Hope Funds Trustee Andrew Robertson, who acknowledged fellow event co-chairs Jacalyn Egan and Mr. & Mrs. Gregory Van Schaack, followed by comments from the Right Rev. Nicholas Knisely, Episcopal Bishop of Rhode Island. The evening's venue was highly fitting, as Doris Duke was a pioneer in funding biomedical research and in supporting women's causes. The event was fashioned to reflect Miss Duke's preferred style of entertaining in the 1930s, with good conversation, a dinner menu featuring items served at "Rough Point," and a jazz band playing many of her favorite tunes. Some noted that her presence was felt during the evening, with several guests wearing dresses by her favorite designers, including Mary McFadden, Pierre Cardin and Christian Dior.

To view photos please click on this PHOTO LINK








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