FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Arkansas Men's Basketball Coach Eric Musselman alongside his wife Danyelle, has been announced as chairs of the inaugural Suits & Sneakers Gala, which will raise money for pediatric cancer research.
Arkansas's American Cancer Society (ACS) is planning the inaugural gala for Oct.15, 2021, from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. at the Fayetteville Town Center. The event is presented by Walmart and the Willard & Pat Walker Charitable Foundation.
The Suits & Sneakers Gala aims to raise funds to support childhood cancer research, services, awareness, prevention efforts, and access to care.
According to ACS, cancer is the leading disease-related cause of death in children.
Funds raised at this year’s event will be used for the most innovative biological and clinical laboratory studies that have the greatest potential to deliver new and improved treatments for kids with cancer quickly.
“Substantial progress has been made against the most common types of childhood cancers, boosting overall survival rates,” said Catherine Tapp, Senior Development Manager for the American Cancer Society. “ACS is leading and funding research that helps us better understand childhood cancers and develop therapies that don’t compromise the quality of life for children and their families during and following treatment.”
Danyelle Musselman is also the Co-Chair of the Coaches vs. Cancer Wives and Friends committee.
“Eric and I are deeply committed to helping the American Cancer Society improve outcomes for children with cancer,” Danyelle said.
For over 25 years, Coaches vs. Cancer, in collaboration with the National Association of Basketball Coaches, has united coaches and fans nationwide to help ACS with fundraising and education initiatives. Since 1993, coaches, including Coach Musselman, have raised more than $110 million for ACS.
While childhood cancer is serious, the Suits & Sneakers Gala will lean on the fun spirit of basketball pep rallies to motivate guests in the fight for cancer-free kids.
The event will feature DJ Derrick, dinner, fun action stations, a live auction and more.
Those with VIP tickets can enjoy a pre-event reception at 6 p.m., including a meet-and-greet with University of Arkansas basketball coaches, players, and cheer squad. They will also receive a great swag bag.
Click here for sponsorship and ticket information.