Scott Drew, Chris Evert and Keyshawn Johnson to be Honored at 17th Annual Dick Vitale Gala

March 21, 2022 – Sarasota

The V Foundation for Cancer Research, a top-rated cancer research charity, and ESPN Hall of Fame Sportscaster Dick Vitale, are pleased to announce the 17^th Annual Dick Vitale Gala. It will be held on May 6 at the Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota in Florida. Vitale is a true champion for pediatric cancer research, raising over $44 million to date for the pediatric fund in his name at the V Foundation. This year’s event will honor Baylor University Head Basketball Coach Scott Drew, Tennis Legend and ESPN Tennis Analyst Chris Evert, and ESPN TV and Radio Host and Former NFL Superstar Keyshawn Johnson. Vitale will also recognize ESPN College Football Analyst Rod Gilmore with the V Foundation John Saunders Courage Award.

The evening will also include the presentation of a Pediatric Cancer Research Grant to Hall of Fame NFL Legend Bryant Young and his wife Kristen in memory of their son, Colby.  Diagnosed with a brain tumor, Colby fought a long and brave battle through numerous surgeries, radiation and chemotherapy treatments.  Colby organized a “Change for Change” campaign to raise funds for a pediatric cancer brain tumor foundation.  Donations reached over $50,000 for the cause.

Colby passed away at the age of 15.

The program will also include a special segment with Justin Hardy, the Washington University Bears’ senior guard on the basketball team. Diagnosed with Stage 4 stomach cancer last April, Justin has continued playing throughout his treatments inspiring his team and Coach Mike Hopkins and so many others during his journey.  With a positive attitude and determination, Justin’s story has received nationwide attention. 

Each year, Vitale recruits the biggest names in sports and entertainment to his event, raising the awareness and support needed to defeat pediatric cancer. Just 4% of federal cancer research funding is dedicated to pediatric cancer. Private funding is critical to propelling research for this leading cause of death by disease in American children. Vitale leads the V Foundation’s pediatric cancer research initiative with this annual Gala. The V Foundation has awarded nearly $60 million in pediatric research grants.

The V Foundation has proudly awarded more than $290 million for cutting-edge cancer research. The V Foundation holds a 4-star (highest) rating from Charity Navigator, America’s largest evaluator of charities, and is among the top 3% of all charities evaluated. The V Foundation is a GuideStar platinum-rated charity.

For more information about the 17^th Annual Dick Vitale Gala, please visit www.v.org/vitale. To purchase tickets, please call the Gala line at 941-350-0580.

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 Foundation has funded more than $290 million in cancer research grants nationwide. Event proceeds benefit cancer research funded by the V Foundation. The Foundation awards peer-reviewed grants through a competitive award process strictly supervised by a Scientific Advisory Committee.

For more information on the V Foundation or to make a donation, please visit www.v.org.