The first thing is the world goes dark. Rather than closing in, it feels, vacant.
The house, a home.
Estranged. Anxious. Alone.
Until somewhere,
A SINGLE LIGHT.
It’s waves sent across space. Inexplicably bridging the source with perception. It grows. In frequency.
Radiating waves connect disparate sources.
Forming a network.
Of beauty. Of empathy. And support.
Each of us stands as a light.
Bound together by the beautiful waves of our individual contributions,
Each a unique, brilliant ray of light in a spectrum of hope.
EACH ONE, A CHAMPION.
Dear American
Cancer Society Supporters and Guests,
Welcome to the American Cancer Society and Janus Henderson Investors Denver Champions of Hope Gala presented by Monarch Casino. Tonight, we gather to celebrate hope, resilience, and the light that shines when a community comes together to fight cancer. Your presence reminds us that even in the darkest moments, we can create light for those who need it most.
Cancer continues to impact thousands of families across Colorado. In 2025, an estimated 29,000 Coloradans will be diagnosed with cancer, and more than 8,600 lives will be lost. These numbers underscore the urgency of our mission to fund research, provide support, and advocate for lifesaving breakthroughs. Federal funding cuts threaten progress, putting studies and clinical trials at risk. These setbacks are not just numbers; they represent lives and futures on the line.
Tonight is about more than statistics. It is about shining a light of hope and possibility. Together, we can protect progress, accelerate discoveries, and ensure that every patient has a chance of survival. Your support tonight fuels that light and brings us closer to a world without cancer.
For more than 110 years, we have helped lead an evolution in the way the world prevents, detects, treats, and survives cancer. As the nation’s preeminent cancer-fighting organization, we fund and conduct research, share expert information, support people impacted by cancer, spread the word about ways to reduce cancer risk, and through our advocacy affiliate, the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network SM (ACS CAN), advocate for public policy change.
The American Cancer Society has played a role in most of the cancer research breakthroughs in recent history. As the largest nonprofit funder of cancer research in the US outside of the federal government, we’ve invested more than $3.53 billion in cancer research since 1991.
Since then, the cancer death rate has declined by 34%, contributing to over 4.5 million more lives saved . We continue to build on this progress by:
• Currently investing more than $517 million in grants at more than 220 institutions nationwide, spanning the entire cancer journey from prevention to detection to treatment to survivorship.
• Funding grant projects to eliminate health disparities , with a focus on prevention, early detection, and access to care in communities that have been marginalized.
• Conducting research focused on early detection and survivorship and disseminating evidence-based reports such as Cancer Statistics, the most widely cited oncology publication each year.
• Investing in for-profit, emerging companies that are developing cutting edge cancer-focused therapeutics, diagnostics, devices, and technologies through BrightEdge – the impact investment arm of ACS’ Impact Venture Fund (AIVF).
• Investing in the future of cancer research through our Diversity in Cancer Research program, which provides grants to foster a more diverse cancer care and research workforce and ultimately better equip the scientific community to address inequities that exist in cancer prevention, treatment, and care.
Thank you for being here and for standing with us. Let’s raise our paddles high and shine a light that will guide us toward a world without cancer.
With deepest gratitude,
American Cancer Society Vice President of Development, Southwest Territory
2025 EVENT CHAIR
Irma Lockridge Chief People Officer, CoorsTek
Irma is a business leader and executive with 20 plus years of experience in senior level roles with predominantly fortune 100 and 500 organizations. She has a unique skill set of business acumen in multiple industries, strong financial acumen, human resource discipline, strategic planning, transformation and corporate communications. She has worked with both public and private sectors and currently serves on the board of directors for two separate publicly traded companies; Trinity Capital and Northwest Pipe in addition to serving as a board member for ACS.
Irma is currently at CoorsTek as the Chief People and Systems Officer and has held various executive level roles at Newell Brands, Western Union, TeleTech and Accenture. She holds a bachelor’s degree in management from the Wharton Business School at the University of Pennsylvania and has attended several leadership and finance academies at the Harvard Business School.
It is an incredible honor to serve as Chair of this year’s American Cancer Society Gala. As a breast cancer survivor and the mother of a brain cancer survivor, the mission of the American Cancer Society is profoundly personal to me.
Our journeys have shown me both the challenges and the hope that come with a cancer diagnosis, and as survivors, I believe it is both a privilege and a responsibility to give back to others who are still fighting. The American Cancer Society’s work—advancing lifesaving research, providing critical patient support, and fostering community—is essential to creating a future where no one faces cancer alone. Serving this organization is my way of honoring that mission and helping others find the same hope that sustained my family.
GALA BOARD OF AMBASSADORS
Erica Ferris Director of Marketing, Monarch Casino Resort Spa
Paprika Rubbed Charred Cauliflower, Quinoa Pilaf, Pearl Onion, Red Pepper, and Brussels Sprouts Hash, Tahini and Mint Raita, Pomegranate Seeds (VGN, GF)
DESSERT
Milk Chocolate Pot de Creme, Fresh Berries (V)
SPEAKERS & HONOREES
2025 GALA EMCEE
Kim Christiansen 9News
Kim Christiansen grew up in Colorado and currently anchors the 4, 5, and 10 pm newscasts on 9News. She has spent her entire career at 9news, starting as an intern.
Kim is also devoted to the fight against breast cancer. Her sister is a two-time breast cancer survivor.
“Each year, the Champion of Hope Awards recognize outstanding medical professionals, individuals, or corporate partners of the ACS. These awards are a prestigious local honor for an individual or organization that has made extraordinary contributions to the fight against cancer through humanitarian work, distinguished service, and leadership. Please join the American Cancer Society as we honor this year’s Champions of Hope Honorees.
MISSION SPEAKER
Ashley Thylin
Burkitt Non-Hodkins Lymphoma
Ashley Thylin is a vibrant 21-year-old whose strength and light inspire everyone who meets her. A proud Colorado native, Ashley is currently pursuing her bachelor’s degree in Communication and Media at the University of Colorado Boulder, driven by a passion to use her voice to make a difference.
At just 16, Ashley was diagnosed with Burkitt Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. She underwent treatment right here in Colorado at Children’s Hospital, where she faced every challenge with courage and grace. After years of determination and hope, Ashley rang the bell at 19, marking the end of treatment and the beginning of a new chapter.
Now cancer-free, Ashley is deeply committed to sharing her story to help raise funds for cancer research, so that more people can have the same chance at survival that she did. Her incredible family has stood beside her through every step of her journey, and her father, Mark Thylin, joined the American Cancer Society Denver Area Board this year to help carry that mission forward. Ashley’s story is a powerful reminder of the impact of research, care, and community in the fight against cancer.
Martin Duff is a dynamic leader known for his energy, expertise, and deep commitment to community. As Senior Vice President of Supply Chain and Operations at YETI, he leads the end-to-end global supply chain organization, driving results through transformational change and a strong focus on people and organizational development.
Beyond his professional achievements, Martin has been a vibrant and dedicated leader for the American Cancer Society for the past five years. His passion for the fight against cancer started during his college experience at Penn State where he served in various leadership capacities supporting THON, which is the nation’s largest student run philanthropy, focused on making a difference in the lives of families and children battling childhood cancer. Marty and his wife Jessica have instilled a strong sense of service in their three children, leading by example through their own community involvement.
He and his family relocated to Denver in 2019, and shortly thereafter started serving on the Denver Board of Directors and as Chairman and Ambassador for the Men Wear Pink campaign. He has inspired others with his passion, humor, and dedication. Martin’s personal and professional support has helped create a sense of fun, community, and purpose around fundraising, making a lasting impact on the organization and the lives it touches.
For his energy, leadership, and commitment to giving back, the American Cancer Society proudly recognizes Martin as one of the 2025 Community Honorees.
COMMUNITY HONOREE
Carmon Hicks Senior Managing Director, JLL
With more than 19 years of experience in commercial real estate, Carmon Hicks serves as a Senior Managing Partner with JLL and stands as a trusted advisor to institutional landlords, occupiers, and industrial real estate developers. Known for his results-driven approach and exceptional expertise in negotiation, sales, and leasing, Carmon has built a distinguished reputation as both a respected leader and valued collaborator throughout Denver’s business community.
Beyond his professional achievements, Carmon has demonstrated unwavering dedication as an advocate for the American Cancer Society, proudly serving on the Denver Board of Directors for five years. During his tenure, he has provided exceptional leadership as both Chairman and Ambassador for the Men Wear Pink campaign, helping to raise critical funds and awareness in our shared fight against cancer. His leadership, generosity, and steadfast commitment have created a lasting impact on our organization and the countless lives we serve together.
A passionate supporter of meaningful causes and devoted family man who finds joy in sports, music, and art, Carmon truly embodies what it means to lead with purpose and heart. Tonight, for his outstanding contributions and unwavering dedication to our mission, the American Cancer Society is proud to recognize Carmon Hicks as one of our 2025 Community Honorees.
SWORD OF HOPE HONOREE
Marianne
B. Kipper, Ph. D
(Posthumous)
Marianne B. Kipper, PhD, devoted nearly 35 years to advancing the American Cancer Society’s (ACS’s) mission through her visionary leadership, generous philanthropy, and steadfast belief in the power of research. A chemist with a PhD from the University of California, Berkeley, Dr. Kipper spent more than two decades as a research scientist at University of California Los Angeles before turning her expertise and compassion toward the fight against cancer.
Motivated by personal losses to the disease, Marianne joined the ACS as a volunteer in 1990. She was a tireless advocate for our mission serving on regional boards, the Council for Extramural Grants, and as a research stakeholder—championing bold, life-saving science. In 2006, she and her husband, Dick, founded the Roaring Fork Valley Research Fund, to inspire friends and family to join them in supporting innovative ACS cancer research. To date, the fund has raised more than $3.8 million, directed to advancing groundbreaking cancer research projects including more than 40 postdoctoral fellowship awards.
When Marianne was diagnosed with serous uterine cancer, she faced it with the same courage, grace, and hope that defined her life’s work. After her passing in 2023, her family honored her legacy by establishing the ACS – Marianne Byrn Kipper, PhD, Professor of Cancer Research. The “Kipper Professor of Cancer Research will focus on advancing our understanding of cancer, especially gynecological cancer. In September 2025, Dr. Electra Paskett at The Ohio State University was named the inaugural chairholder of the professorship. In addition, the ACS and the Kipper family renamed the Roaring Fork Valley Research Fund in Marianne’s honor. The newly named Marianne Byrn Kipper, PhD, Research Fund, ensures her vision continues to fuel innovative cancer research, including early career postdoctoral fellows, nationwide.
Marianne’s lifelong dedication to science, compassion, and hope continues to illuminate the path toward a world without cancer. Her 2025 Sword of Hope Award will be accepted by her husband, Dick, and their children.
MISSION PADDLE RAISE
The American Cancer Society is committed to improving the lives of people with cancer and their families by advancing breakthrough research that will help us end cancer as we know it, for everyone. We launch innovative, high-impact research to find more and better— treatments, uncover factors that may cause cancer, and improve the quality of life for people facing cancer.
We are committed to reducing health disparities by conducting internal research and funding grants aimed at fostering a more diverse cancer care and research workforce, as well as addressing inequities that exist in cancer prevention, treatment, and care.
IMPACT AT A GLANCE
• More than $3.5 billion invested in cancer research since 1991.
• More than $517 million currently invested in more than 870 active grants .
• Largest nonprofit funder of cancer research in the US outside of the federal government, investing more than $5.6 billion over 75 years .
• Over 220 institutions currently funded across the country.
• Invested over $12 million in 2023 in grants to historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) advancing cancer health equity and improving diversity in the cancer workforce.
• Over 320 cancer studies authored by ACS intramural researchers in 2024.
• More than $43M invested by BrightEdge ACS Impact Venture Fund (AIVF).
LIVE AUCTION
LIVE AUCTION KICKOFF
GOLDEN ORNAMENT DRAWING:
To kick off the live auction, we’ll draw from the ornament numbers purchased during cocktail hour to determine the lucky winner. Don’t miss your chance to win—buy an ornament number now!
• Denver Nuggets vs. New York Knicks Game
• Friday March 6, 2026
• 20 guests in a private suite with 5 parking passes included
Generously donated by: Lockton
Restrictions: This package cannot be sold and is not redeemable for cash. Food and beverages are not included. ACS staff will connect the winner to Lockton to redeem your tickets.
LIVE AUCTION
SANCTUARY GOLF COURSE FOURSOME
Experience one of Colorado’s most exclusive golf courses with an 18-hole round for four at the breathtaking Sanctuary Golf Course in Sedalia. Known for its impeccable greens, dramatic mountain views, and limited access by invitation only, Sanctuary offers a golfing experience unlike any other. Perfect for the passionate golfer or anyone looking to enjoy a truly unforgettable day on one of the state’s most spectacular courses.
Generously donated by: Sanctuary Golf Course
Restrictions: Foursome is nontransferable. Cannot be sold, bartered, donated, or given away. Must be redeemed by 09/28/2026. Please Note: Winner must submit information to ACS Staff Partner, Randi Tuell at randi.tuell@cancer.org within 2 weeks of the event, by 11/28/2025. Sanctuary Golf Course will follow up with a certificate and available dates.
COLORADO FASHION PACKAGE
Elevate your Colorado style with this bespoke fashion experience featuring three of Cherry Creek’s most celebrated designers. Wrap yourself in timeless elegance with a Dan Sharp Luxury Outerwear European leather coat with a fox fur-lined hood (size small), step out in confidence with a custom suit or sport jacket created by Blain Jones Custom Suits and Unique Apparel, and top off your look with a custom hat from Hats by Parker Thomas. This package blends sophistication, craftsmanship, and local artistry, creating a wardrobe that’s uniquely yours.
Generously donated by: Blain Jones Custom Suits and Unique Apparel, Dan Sharp Luxury Outerwear, Hats by Parker Thomas
Restrictions: Dan Sharp Luxury Outerwear Coat is non-returnable and cannot be exchanged. A $1,500 certificate is provided for Blain Jones and includes redemption instructions. A $300 gift card is provided for Hats by Parker Thomas. Package items can be picked up at checkout following the event.
LIVE AUCTION
THE ONE GROUP “SURF & TURF” EXPERIENCE
Savor two of Denver’s most sought-after dining experiences with this indulgent “Surf & Turf” culinary package provided by The ONE Group. Gather 10 guests for a private 4-course tasting at STK Steakhouse in Downtown Denver, where bold flavors and modern steakhouse style take center stage. Then, enjoy an intimate chef’s tasting for 6 guests at Salt Water Social in Cherry Creek, featuring an array of signature and unique fresh seafood, complemented by the highest quality beef dishes and elegant, delicious cocktails.
Whether it’s a lively dinner party or an elevated night out, this experience brings together the very best of land and sea.
Generously donated by:
The ONE Group–Salt Water Social and STK Steakhouse
Restrictions: Certificates are provided by The ONE Group and can be picked up at checkout with redemption instructions. Booking subject to availability; blackout dates and other restrictions may apply. Gratuities are not included. Certificates do not carry cash value and do not expire.
LIVE AUCTION
ASPEN GETAWAY
Escape to the mountains for a luxurious 3-night stay in a sleek 2-bed/2bath modern guesthouse on the Roaring Fork River, just 25 minutes from downtown Aspen. (Modern Guesthouse Roaring Fork). Play in the snow with two Aspen Snowmass lift tickets redeemable at any of the four Aspen mountains, provided by Aspen Hospitality. Two guests will then savor a chef’s tasting menu with wine pairings at Bosq, Aspen’s acclaimed and celebrated One MICHELIN Star Restaurant. (Home | Bosq Aspen) This package is the perfect blend of adventure, elegance, and alpine sophistication.
Generously donated by: Aspen Hospitality, Bosq, Nick Cherney
Restrictions: Modern Aspen Valley Home Rental: Booking subject to availability. Contact Randi Tuell at randi.tuell@cancer.org to be connected to the homeowner and waive booking fees. You can view availability directly on the booking site. Aspen Snowmass Lift Tickets: Not redeemable for cash, cannot be resold, expires 05/15/2025. Bosq Aspen Chef’s Tasting: Booking subject to availability; tax and gratuity not included.
DIAMONDS AND TENNIS
A dazzling blend of world-class sport and timeless luxury, this exclusive package includes two tickets to the French Open, offering an unforgettable experience at one of tennis’s most prestigious tournaments. Celebrate the 26th Annual Opening Day at Roland Garros on Sunday, May 24, 2026, with access to the 200-person suite on Chatrier Court for the Day Session, featuring exceptional hospitality throughout the day.
Your tennis experience at Roland Garros is an occasion to dress to impress, jackets and power ties for the gentlemen, elegant dresses and stunning hats for the ladies. To complete your look, you’ll enjoy a shopping experience with Gnat Jewelry Atelier, a Cherry Creek icon for more than 40 years, celebrated for crafting custom, luxury pieces. Raz Gnat and his team will help you select from their exquisite designs or create a bespoke piece that’s uniquely yours, because from center court to couture, this package shines with brilliance.
Generously donated by: Irma Lockridge and Gnat Jewelry Atelier
Restrictions: French Open tickets do not include hotel or airfare. The tickets are for opening day, May 24, 2026, and cannot be traded or sold. Gnat Jewelry Atelier certificate: Not redeemable for cash, valid for in-stock merchandise only, not valid with any other offer. Certificates can be picked up at checkout following the event with further redemption instructions.
LIVE AUCTION
ULTIMATE VIP EXPERIENCE: COUNTRY
VS. CANCER
Celebrate Giving Tuesday on December 2, with an extraordinary night of music and mission in Nashville, TN at Country vs. Cancer , the American Cancer Society’s flagship country event. Join an all-star lineup— HARDY, Miranda Lambert, Dierks Bentley, and more —as they take the stage to raise life-saving funds in the fight against cancer.
This package delivers a VIP experience designed to put you at the heart of the action:
• Unforgettable concert access to the year’s most anticipated country music event
• Exclusive meet & greet with HARDY , including a professional photo
• Behind-the-scenes backstage tour of The Pinnacle for a rare insider look
• Premium reserved lounge seating with private bars and restrooms
• A special meet-and-greet with Shane Jacobson , CEO of the American Cancer Society
This is country music, philanthropy, and VIP access—rolled into one spectacular night in Nashville. Don’t miss your chance to be pa rt of it.
Generously donated by: The American Cancer Society
Restrictions: Airfare and hotel are not included. Not redeemable for cash. Event alcohol credit included up to a $500 value.
THANK YOU DONORS!
IN-KIND DONORS
The following donors made generous donations of products, services, or a combination thereof. We are very grateful to these partners for their generous donations that helped make this evening possible:
• Aspen Hospitality
• Barre3
• Barry’s
• Bear Creek Distillery
• Be Here Colorado
• Bentley
• Blain Jones
• Bosq
• Branch & Barrel
• Bread & Butter
• Bulow Jewelers
• Carboy Winery
• Carmon Hicks
• Clayton Hotel
• Colorado Ballet
• Comedy Works
• Dan Sharp Luxury Outerwear
• Danico Brewery
• _defyThemAll
• Denver Beer Co.
• Enstrom Candies
• Erica Ferris
• Gaylord Rockies Resort
• Gnat Jewelry Atelier
• GolfTec
• Gorjana
• Gott Golf
• Hats by Parker Thomas
• Hyatt Place Moab
• IMA Financial Group
• Island Lake Marina
• Izzie Combs
• Jim Slavik
• Kendra Scott
• Kelly Stewart Family
• Kimpton Claret Hotel
• Lalo
• Lauren Kvamme Family
• Le Merise
• Lockridge Family
• Lockton
• MCA Denver
• Metzger Mountain Studio
• Mike & Liz Metzger
• Monarch Casino Resort Spa
• Nick Cherney
• Sanctuary Golf Course
• Sorrel River Ranch Resort
• Spirit Hound Distillers
• Temaki Den
• The ONE Group
• The Oxford Hotel
• Tito’s
• True Myth
• WX Brands
• YETI
• Yoga Six SAVE THE DATE!
The 2026 Champions of Hope
Fight Cancer, Invest in Brighter Futures
Janus Henderson Investors has joined the American Cancer Society in the fight to end cancer, forging an innovative partnership you can support.
Let’s Invest in a Brighter Future Together.
Cancer breakthroughs take time.
That’s why we work at such a furious pace.
At Johnson & Johnson, everything we do gets us closer to a future where cancer is a thing of the past.
uhc.com
The beauty of community in action
What’s more beautiful than a community working to make a difference? Not much, but coming together to celebrate in style is a close second. When we work together, better things are possible.
