April 28 - 29, 2023 / The Greenbrier - America's Resort / White Sulphur Springs, WV

Barbara Alexander McKinney, Chair
David and Kimberly Alvarez, Honorary Chairs

Schedule
Of Events


The Spring Gala is a weekend affair, taking place April 28 – 29, 2023 at The Greenbrier – America’s Resort. Below is the schedule of events. Attire for Friday evening and Saturday pre-reception is business casual. Attire for Saturday evening’s reception and formal dinner dance is black tie optional. Note: as per The Greenbrier’s policy, gentlemen must wear jackets in the resort’s casino.

As the event draws near, special guests and speakers will be announced. Please revisit this page for updates and remember to follow the WVU Cancer Institute on Facebook (or wvucancer on Instagram) for Gala updates and much more.


Friday, April 28

Reception and Strolling Dinner

6:00 – 10:00 pm | CAMEO BALLROOM

Join us as we kick off our Then and Now celebration with a reception and strolling dinner prepared by the talented Greenbrier chefs. Students from the WVU Jazz Ensemble will delight with musical accompaniment.


Saturday, April 29

Interactive WVU Cancer Institute Showcases

8:30 – 9:45 am | EISENHOWER PARLORS

Mingle with our clinicians, researchers, and staff during this exhibit-style showcase. Each unique display highlights one of the WVU Cancer Institute’s innovative programs, providing an up-close look at the remarkable work being undertaken to lessen the cancer burden.


Integrating Cancer Research and Care: From Cells to Populations

9:45 – 10:30 am | EISENHOWER PARLORS

Curious about cancer research in West Virginia? WVU Cancer Institute researchers take the stage to share how collaboration between scientists and clinicians fosters an environment of innovative thinking and discovery, benefitting those in the Mountain State and beyond. Featured presenters: Courtney DeVries-Nelson, PhD, Lori Hazlehurst, PhD, Stephenie Kennedy-Rea, EdD, and Ed Pistilli, PhD. Refreshments will be available at the conclusion of the program.


WVU Cancer Update & Healthcare in West Virginia

10:45 am – 11:30 am | EISENHOWER PARLORS

WVU Cancer Institute Director Hannah Hazard-Jenkins, M.D., joined by WVU Health System President and CEO Albert Wright, Jr., welcomes Gala guests for a State of the Institute address, detailing progress at the Institute and the bright future which lies ahead.


Conversation with President Gee

11:30 – 12:30 pm | EISENHOWER PARLORS

Join new WVU Vice President and Director of Intercollegiate Athletics Wren Baker as he sits down with WVU President E. Gordon Gee.


Culinary Demonstration

2:00 – 3:00 pm | CULINARY ARTS CENTER

Greenbrier Chefs Hunter Gentry and Nina Ryan present a culinary demonstration and tasting featuring fare from across the decades: mini lamb sliders on sweet rolls with gruyere and caramelized onions, almond croccante, grilled mushroom crostini with red chili oil and fresh parsley, and prosciutto-wrapped melon with parmigiana and balsamic vinegar.


Mixology Demonstration

3:00 – 4:00 pm | CULINARY ARTS CENTER

Learn how to prepare cocktails that delight, from then and now. Enjoy the Jungle Bird, a popular rum cocktail from the late 70’s and early 80’s, along with a current favorite, the gin based Negroni. Treat yourself to a tasting as you ready for the incredible night ahead.


Reception

6:30 – 7:00 pm | COLONIAL HALL

Formal Dinner Dance

7:00 – 10:30 pm | COLONIAL HALL

The Gala concludes with a memorable evening featuring our Master of Ceremonies Tony Caridi, the Benny Benack Band, and West Virginia native talent Bobby Nicholas. Highlights of the evening include a live auction and a special Winged Victory tribute. Black tie optional.