On November 15, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory (CSHL) held its 18th annual Double Helix Medals dinner (DHMD) at the American Museum of Natural History in New York City. CBS journalist Lesley Stahl returned to emcee the awards dinner, which honored Neri Oxman & William Ackman and 2018 Nobel laureate Jim Allison. Thanks to the event chairs and donors, the event raised more than $10 million. After receiving the Double Helix Medal, Oxman and Ackman announced an extraordinary gift, further breaking the event’s fundraising record to support scientific research and education at CSHL.
Neri Oxman & William Ackman, co-trustees of the Pershing Square Foundation, were honored at the 18th Double Helix Medals dinner for their efforts in empowering scientists to address important social causes such as the environment, cancer, and cognitive health. Oxman, an innovative designer, has gained recognition worldwide for her fusion of technology and biology, resulting in over 150 scientific publications and inventions.
In a statement, Ackman emphasized their commitment to supporting young entrepreneurs who are dedicated to solving societal problems. We believe in taking risks with incredible scientists who have the ability to tackle these complex problems, Oxman added.
Dr. Jim Allison, regental professor and chair of the MD Anderson Cancer Center’s Department of Immunology, was also honored at the event. His groundbreaking research in cancer immunotherapy led to the development of ipilimumab, an FDA-approved therapy for melanoma, renal cell carcinoma, and lung cancer. Dr. Allison expressed his optimism about the future of cancer therapies, stating, Immunotherapy is going to be a part of all cancer therapies for almost every kind of cancer.
The 2023 Double Helix Medals dinner, which raised more than $10 million, was chaired by prominent figures including Jamie Nicholls, Francis Biondi, Barbara Amonson, Vincent Della Pietra, Pamela Hurst-Della Pietra, Stephen Della Pietra, John M. Desmarais, Jonathan Gray, Jeffrey E. Kelter, Tomislav Kundic, Robert D. Lindsay, Ivana Stolnik-Lourie, Robert Lourie, Marcia Kramer Mayer, Howard L. Morgan, Marilyn Simons, James Simons, Paul J. Taubman, and more.
Since its inception in 2006, the DHMD has consistently raised significant funds, totaling over $60 million, to support Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory’s biological research and education programs. The gala has become a platform to honor individuals who have made substantial contributions to the scientific community.
With Neri Oxman & William Ackman’s astonishing gift, the fundraising record set at this year’s dinner has been surpassed, reinforcing the commitment to advancing scientific research and education. The event’s success highlights the enduring support for CSHL’s mission to push boundaries in the field of biology.
The annual Double Helix Medals dinner continues to be a pivotal gathering that celebrates the achievements of scientists and philanthropists, all while driving progress in scientific research and education.
