Voices for Victory The V Foundation for Cancer Research

Joining us is small town athlete to national sports anchor, Michael Eaves. On this episode, Michael speaks to the challenges of climbing the ladder, competition in the game of broadcasting, and appreciating the small successes along the way. He also speaks to how a small introduction turns into huge opportunity to impact millions through cancer research fundraising. Tune in to hear how Michael reflects on his personal connection to cancer and how he has impacted new research innovations through his philanthropic efforts.

In April of 2023, Bricoleur Vineyards co-founder Sarah Hanson Citron received the challenging diagnosis of breast cancer. As an extraordinary leader and devoted young mother, Sarah's strength is an inspiration. In this episode, Sarah shares more about her breast cancer journey and her view of victory. While almost misdiagnosed because of her age, she kept persevering. She wants everyone to know that without her clinical trial - she wouldn't be here and that cancer research is game-changing.

Joining us today is Suleika Jaouad, an Emmy award-winning journalist and celebrated Ted Speaker. Suleika is the author of the instant New York Times Bestselling memoir: Between Two Kingdoms, which recounts her odyssey of healing and self-discovery after a leukemia diagnosis at the age of 22, which has only a 35% chance of survival. Suleika is now cancer free and is our featured speaker for our wine celebration in Napa Valley at the President's and Vintner Grant Honoree luncheon. 

Dereck Whittenberg was a starting guard on Jim Valvano’s 1983 NCAA Basketball Championship team at NCSU. After a successful career at NCSU, the Phoenix Suns drafted him in the 1983 NBA Draft. Dereck later established a coaching career of his own. He joined NC State University (NCSU) as the Director of Player Development in 2013. He was promoted in October 2015 to Associate Athletics Director for Community Relations and Student Support. He also joined ESPN in 2010. His work includes the program Buzzer Beater and select games appearing on ESPNU. Dereck can also be heard on ESPN Radio. Dereck was recently made Event Chair of the V Foundation’s 30th Anniversary Gala, which will be held June 3rd in Raleigh, North Carolina at Reynolds Coliseum.

Dr. Susanna Greer, Ph.D. is the Chief Scientific Officer of the V Foundation. In this role, Dr. Greer is a visionary ambassador of the V Foundation who works with our scientific advisory committee to steer funding to the most promising research opportunities. An accomplished strategist. She develops and articulates priorities to enhance the V Foundation's research portfolio, gifts, grants, and sponsorships. These are designed to advance the V Foundation's distinctive brand of cutting-edge and disruptive research. Susanna has spearheaded a grant of her own initiative for the V Foundation and will be leading our V Summit this month. Susanna, thank you for taking the time to join us.

Greg Simon served as the president of the Biden Cancer Initiative from 2017 to 2019. Previously, he was the executive director of the White House Cancer Moonshot Task Force under then Vice President Joe Biden in the Obama administration.Greg has held senior positions in both chambers of Congress, served in two presidential administrations, and was a senior strategy consultant to a variety of international technology CEOs. Greg will be a guest speaker at the 2023 Sonoma Epicurean Event raising funds for the V Foundation.