The NYSCF Gala and Science Fair event shed more light on the field of stem cell research with an open science fair, scientist educators, and a gala where members and honorees shared their stories with the Foundation.
The annual New York Stem Cell Foundation (NYSCF) Gala was held at the Lincoln Center this past week to fundraise and celebrate the tremendous work the NYSCF has done to support stem cell research. The evening’s theme of “Science Powered by Patients,” highlights the invaluable role of patients, whose generous donations of their own cells not only power our research, but also drive our unwavering commitment to accelerate cures.
The event featured a brand-new immersive Science Fair which included cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and various interactive stations where attendees could learn from world-leading NYSCF scientists. Guests learned about how stem cell research has been and is being applied to gene editing, cancer therapeutics, diabetes, drug discovery, brain disease, as well as how AI and robotics are being used to further advance the research. Microscopes were stationed around the venue to view live brain, pancreas, and beating heart cells. Attendees were challenged to test their brain power against AI to spot diseased cells, and could even see one of NYSCF’s robots in action and more.
The 2023 NYSCF Stem Cell Heroes honored for their partnership with NYSCF and tremendous contributions to patients and stem cell science through research and advocacy were Feng Zhang, PhD, the pioneer of CRISPR gene editing and biotech entrepreneur; Kay Unger, world-renown designer and philanthropist; and Janet and Jerry Zucker, patient advocates, film writers, directors, and producers.
To be recognized by this community is incredibly meaningful because these are all people who I respect and admire greatly… it really means a lot to me.
The dinner and award ceremony was hosted by Tony Award-winning singer and actress Annaleigh Ashford, featuring a musical performance by Tony, Emmy, Pulitzer Prize, and Grammy Award- winner Tom Kitt alongside Grammy-nominated Broadway veteran Caissie Levy. The two performed “I Miss the Mountains,” from Next to Normal and “Let It Go,” from Frozen. Other notable guests in attendance included: Rob Reiner, Matt Dillon, Ian Schrager, Martha Stewart, New York State Senator Brad Hoylman and others.
By the end of the night, the event had raised $2.4 million to help accelerate cures and better treatments for patients through stem cell research.
