Fundraising event raises awareness and vital support for pioneering research at the Goodman Cancer Research Centre
The 3rd Goodman Cancer Research Gala, held on Sunday, June 1 in support of McGill’s Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Research Centre, brought together 800 guests and raised $2.5 million to support the Centre and the groundbreaking efforts of its scientists to unravel the mysteries of cancer and translate discoveries into better patient care.
Specifically, the funds raised at the Gala will be directed to innovative research projects, the strategic recruitment of new scientists, investments in specialized equipment and core facilities, and fellowships that will help train the Centre’s next generation of scientists.
“Today’s cancer researchers need a dynamic, multidisciplinary environment in which to collaborate. Generous support allows McGill investigators to carry out crucial work in the global battle against cancer,” said Prof. Suzanne Fortier, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of McGill. “I extend my gratitude to the McGill and Montreal communities, and I particularly thank Rosalind and Morris Goodman, who remain tireless advocates for the Centre’s activities and serve as the driving force behind fundraising initiatives such as this Gala.”
The biennial Goodman Cancer Research Gala, first held in 2010, is the brainchild of Rosalind Goodman, a McGill graduate and cancer survivor, and her husband Morris, who together made a transformative gift to McGill’s Faculty of Medicine in 2008 to reenergize research at the McGill Cancer Centre, which was originally founded in 1978. In recognition of the Goodmans’ support, the Centre was renamed in their honour.
“The Gala is always a great party, but more importantly, it is an opportunity to celebrate the exciting work going on at the Centre,” said Rosalind Goodman. “Here at McGill, we have some of the best brains in Canada working to find a cure for cancer, and this evening was really in honour of them and their dedication.”