2025 marked a special milestone for the WVU Cancer Institute Spring Gala: 40 years of the cherished event, originally conceived by Jean DeLynn, Rita Solomon, and Gayle Swanson before the first spade of dirt was turned to build what is now the Mary Babb Randolph Cancer Center. For 39 of those 40 years, our community has come together at The Greenbrier to honor their vision, raise critical funds, and support the future of cancer care in and around West Virginia.
As we enter year 41 of this special benefit, we usher in a new era for the Gala and for the Institute by readying ourselves for growth. We are at a critical junction in the history of the WVUCI. Much like 40 years ago, we are embarking on a monumental investment in the growth of our program with a new cancer hospital, the Hazel Ruby McQuain Cancer Hospital. As we usher in this new era, we are excited to explore new ventures and venues that will allow us to continue to build new memories with longstanding supporters while bringing new partnerships into the fold.. To do so, we are pleased to announce that the Spring Gala will transition to Nemacolin in 2026. Please mark your calendar and plan to join us from April 17-19.
The award-winning luxury resort is located just 40 minutes from Morgantown, in Pennsylvania’s scenic Laurel Highlands region. With “real-life magic” as its motto, Nemacolin delivers five-star golf, spa, and dining experiences across its 2,200 acres, which include three luxury hotels, a range of private homes and estates, a casino, a rod and range club, a kids’ club, a private airfield, and much more.
Nemacolin generously supports WVU, serving as the official resort of WVU Athletics and making possible both the Hardy Family Hospitality Program and Nemacolin Hospitality Innovation and Technology Lab at the WVU John Chambers College of Business and Economics.
Registration will open in the new year and many exciting announcements remain ahead, but we invite you to explore accommodation options in our room block, and to make your room reservations now. Please see our Accommodations page for full details. For event and sponsorship questions, please contact Stephanie McCandless at SMcCandless@wvuf.org.
Thank you to everyone who joined us in 2025 to celebrate 40 years of the WVU Cancer Institute Spring Gala! It was a remarkable [event which raised vital funds to advance research, outreach, and cancer care (including THOR red light therapy) across West Virginia.
