Wayne Berson, CEO, BDO USA
Few black-tie events in the D.C. location have actually as considerably remaining energy as the annual Leukemia Ball. For the past 29 years, the fundraiser has actually been among the essential philanthropic gatherings of the year, along with a lot more compared to $52 million raised to date for the National Capital location Chapter of The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS).
Aiding in that initiative are corporate leaders love Wayne Berson, that joins Ed Offterdinger, the executive controlling companion of the accounting and advisory firm Baker Tilly, as among the co-chairs of this year’s ball.
Co-Chair: Personal Commitment
While Berson serves as CEO of the American division of the global accounting network BDO USA, he’s likewise personally committed to raising funds for LLS’s mission. Early on, Berson lost his brother to non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma; years later, a related blood cancer would certainly claim his mother-in-law.
“It’s an unfortunate illness that’s been close to our family, simply love it’s been close to lots of various other families — that is probably why I’ve gotten involved along with this particular initiative versus any sort of various other health-related cause,” says Berson, whose business will certainly be presented along with LLS’s Titan of Firm & Philanthropy Award at the Ball.
“It has actually been our experience as a firm that being a great corporate citizen is gratifying in multiple ways,” adds Berson, whose company’s commitment to social responsibility has actually extended to various other organizations such as Miriam’s Kitchen, the Wounded Soldier Project, Children’s National Medical Center, Maryland School for the Blind, and Junior Achievement of Higher Washington.
2016 Leukemia Ball’s Lineup
This year’s Leukemia Ball — presented by PhRMA, (the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America), on Saturday, March 12, at the Walter E. Washington Convention Focus — will certainly feature a distinctive lineup.
“Generally we have actually TV news anchors that are the emcees; this time will certainly be a lot more of a sports focus,” says Berson. The “Voice of the Redskins,” Larry Michael, will certainly serve as emcee, while the Redskins’ former tight end, Chris Cooley, will certainly likewise participate. Comedian Kathleen Madigan will certainly perform, while the Canadian rock band Barenaked Ladies will certainly close out the show. (Interesting fact: Paul McCartney as soon as hailed the group for their harmonies, saying, “I don’t believe John 8a6603870fb089142a1500d96fc22c0five and myself ever had the sort of range they do.”)
In addition, this year’s event will certainly contain a Mercedes-Benz raffle drawing, which builds on the company’s 19-year participation in the event; this year’s grand prize is the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC300 4MATIC, valued at $40,950. Meanwhile, LLS has actually added a Young Professionals ticket and Future Leaders Committee to the ball; the young professionals’ ticket entails balcony seating, a dessert buffet, and wine and beer.
Two points are certain: You’ll have actually enjoyable and contribute to a great cause, says Berson, adding, “It’s constantly the highlight of the year.”
When: Saturday, March 12
Where: Walter E. Washington Convention Center
For a lot more information: Visit 2016 Leukemia Ball presented by PhRMA.
