The Gala & Auction will be hosted by ESPN’s Jay Harris and features 20 exclusive auction lots, with 100% of event proceeds benefiting game-changing cancer research
March 4, 2026 (Sonoma County, CA) — The V Foundation for Cancer Research is proud to announce the upcoming 5th Anniversary V Foundation for Cancer Research Sonoma Epicurean Gala & Auction on March 28, at Montage Healdsburg. The event, presented by Weather Wines and Colossal, will be hosted by award-winning ESPN SportsCenter anchor and cancer thriver Jay Harris.
The Gala will recognize two honorees, Ariel Kelley, J.D., MBA, and Shoshana Ungerleider, M.D., distinguished leaders whose work bridges public service, healthcare, and nonprofit innovation. Ariel serves on the Healdsburg City Council, spearheading nonprofit and economic resilience efforts across Sonoma County. Shoshana is a practicing internal medicine physician, science journalist, and founder of End Well, a national nonprofit advancing more human-centered end-of-life care through storytelling, media, and advocacy. Together, they embody a shared commitment to strengthening communities and driving meaningful change where it matters most.
The Auction will feature 20 lots that offer once-in-a-lifetime experiences, and all auction bids will directly benefit lifesaving cancer research through the V Foundation. Highlights include:
- Italy Uncorked with Teri Hatcher: Four guests will enjoy a six-day insider journey through Sicily alongside Golden Globe-winning actress Teri Hatcher, wine expert Debbie Zachareas, and Italy-based curator Michèle Shah. This experience blends private winery visits, exceptional dining, and Sicily’s most storied towns and landscapes into a rare, personal adventure defined by authenticity and connection.
- Run for the Roses with Jackson Family Wines: Experience Kentucky Derby Week as a VIP, blending legendary racing, invitation-only celebrations, and rare behind-the-scenes access with the Jackson Family. Enjoy Turf Club tickets to the Kentucky Oaks and the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs, along with events including Jocktails, the Barnstable Brown Party, and Derby Week brunches. The package includes luxury accommodations and a private tour of elite thoroughbred operations in Lexington.
- Winter Break in Kona Village with Chef Dustin Valette: Retreat to luxury at Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort, an iconic sanctuary on the shores of Hawaiʻi Island. This five-night escape for four blends oceanfront living, a spa experience at Asaya Spa, and immersive island activities. Enjoy an exclusive culinary journey with acclaimed Chef Dustin Valette, featuring a private dining experience, hands-on cooking class, and curated pairings from Valette Wines.
Guests can also bid on a selection of silent and showcase auction items throughout the weekend as well as the Case for Research auction at Friday night’s Epic Party at Bacchus Landing, featuring wines from Gary Farrell, Rodney Strong, and Stonestreet. View the full auction catalog here.
“We’re honored to bring the V Foundation’s lifesaving mission to Sonoma County while highlighting the incredible chefs, vintners and experiences that make this region so special,” said Jessica Kilcullen, Chair of Sonoma Epicurean. “It’s a weekend of hope and connection, with 100% of event proceeds going directly to the brilliant scientists at the frontlines of cancer research. We’re proud to support high-impact research alongside so many partners and community members who make this weekend possible.”
To attend the 5th Anniversary V Foundation for Cancer Research Sonoma Epicurean, or to learn more about this event, please visit v.org/sonomaepic.
About the V Foundation for Cancer Research
The V Foundation for Cancer Research was founded in 1993 by ESPN and the late Jim Valvano, legendary North Carolina State University basketball coach, ESPN commentator and member of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. The V Foundation has funded over $458 million in game-changing cancer research grants in North America through a competitive process strictly supervised by a world-class Scientific Advisory Committee. Because the V Foundation has an endowment to cover administrative expenses, 100% of direct donations is awarded to cancer research and programs. The V team is committed to funding the best scientists to accelerate Victory Over Cancer® and save lives. To learn more, visit v.org.
About Sonoma Epicurean
Sonoma Epicurean is a signature series of events featuring curated and hands-on experiences with Michelin-star and award-winning chefs, local artisans, and world-class vintners with a focus on lifestyle, wellness, and sustainability. Proceeds from the event will fund cancer research and related programs to benefit the V Foundation for Cancer Research. For more information on the V Foundation or to make a donation, please visit sonomaepicurean.v.org.
