Dick Vitale Gala Returns to Sarasota May 1, 2026: Raising Millions for Pediatric Cancer Research
One of the most inspiring and impactful nights on Florida’s Suncoast is set to return in a big way. The 21st Annual Dick Vitale Gala will take place on Friday, May 1, 2026, at The Ritz-Carlton Sarasota, bringing together sports legends, celebrities, and philanthropists for a powerful cause — ending pediatric cancer.
Hosted in partnership with the V Foundation for Cancer Research and legendary ESPN broadcaster Dick Vitale, the annual gala has become one of the premier fundraising events in the country dedicated to children’s cancer research.
A Legacy of Impact
Over the past two decades, the Dick Vitale Gala has raised an incredible $105.4 million to support the Dick Vitale Pediatric Cancer Research Fund. Organizers are aiming even higher in 2026, with a goal to surpass $120 million in total funds raised.
This funding plays a critical role in advancing treatments and improving outcomes for children battling cancer. Thanks to ongoing research, pediatric cancer survival rates have risen dramatically, with 85% of children diagnosed with cancer now surviving five years or more, compared with just 58% in the mid-1970s.
Despite this progress, pediatric cancer remains underfunded at the federal level, making private donations and events like this gala essential to saving lives. Even more importantly, 100% of all direct donations and net proceeds from the gala go directly to cancer research and related programs. Readers who followed last year’s Dick Vitale Gala announcement already know how deeply rooted this event is in the Sarasota community.
Honoring Courage, Leadership, and Inspiration
Each year, the gala celebrates individuals who exemplify leadership, perseverance, and heart, both on and off the court.
- Geno Auriemma — 12-time NCAA Champion
- Katie Couric — award-winning journalist and media icon
- Kelvin Sampson — elite college basketball coach
Special recognition will also include Jamie Valvano receiving the John Saunders Courage Award and Tom Izzo receiving the Dick Vitale Spirit Award. The evening will once again be hosted by Kevin Negandhi, whose passion and connection to the cause have made him a staple of this unforgettable event.
More Than a Gala
Beyond the star-studded guest list, the heart of the evening lies in its most inspiring attendees — members of “Dickie V’s All-Courageous Team,” a group of pediatric cancer thrivers, along with the Dickie V Alumni Team representing courageous survivors.
Their stories serve as powerful reminders of why this event matters — and why continued funding is critical. That same energy has carried into other local cancer-research efforts connected to Dick Vitale, including March Mayhem with Dick Vitale in Sarasota.
Why the V Foundation Matters
Since its founding by the late Jim Valvano, the V Foundation has become one of the nation’s most respected cancer research organizations, awarding nearly $458 million in grants nationwide.
- 4-Star rating from Charity Navigator for 13 consecutive years
- Platinum status from GuideStar
- Ranked among the top 2% of charities nationwide
The organization’s mission is simple but powerful: fund game-changing research to achieve Victory Over Cancer®.
Event Details and How to Get Involved
- Location: The Ritz-Carlton Sarasota
- Date: Friday, May 1, 2026
For tickets, sponsorship opportunities, or to donate, visit the official V Foundation Dick Vitale Gala page.
For event information, contact Mary Kenealy Events Gala Office at mary@marykenealyevents.com or call 941-350-0580.
Final Thought
The Dick Vitale Gala is more than just a high-profile event — it’s a powerful movement rooted right here on the Suncoast. Every dollar raised fuels research, supports families, and brings us closer to a world where no child has to face cancer.
As Dick Vitale himself would say, this is truly awesome, baby — and it’s all for a life-saving cause. Sarasota has seen the event’s impact for years, from sold-out galas to growing support across the community, as reflected in Suncoast Post’s earlier gala coverage.