A Charitable EVENING OF COMPASSION AND CURE
By H.H. Dr. Prince Mario-Max Schaumburg-Lippe
New York City, the city of dreams and dazzling hearts, once again witnessed an evening where elegance met purpose, and philanthropy became an art form. On Monday, October 6, 2025, at the majestic 635 Park Avenue, philanthropist, author, and television star Jean Shafiroff — one of the most beloved and respected figures in New York society — opened her stunning Park Avenue residence for an exclusive Fall Celebration in Honor of the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation.
This elegant soirée, hosted by Jean Shafiroff, served as the official kick-off event for the upcoming 28th Annual Waxman Collaboration for a Cure Gala, to be held on October 22, 2025, at Apella, 450 East 29th Street, from 6:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. The night was more than a prelude; it was a declaration — that unity, compassion, and generosity can ignite scientific breakthroughs that save lives.
THE ICONIC HOSTESS: JEAN SHAFIROFF
Few names shine brighter in the constellation of New York philanthropy than Jean Shafiroff. Known for her refined style, her unending empathy, and her devotion to humanitarian causes, Jean embodies the soul of modern philanthropy. Her radiant smile and gracious spirit have made her not only a fixture of the international charity scene but also a guiding light for countless foundations and initiatives.
Her Park Avenue residence glowed like a jewel that evening — candlelight, fresh autumn blooms, and soft golden tones reflected the warmth of the cause she champions. Jean greeted every guest personally, her signature elegance matched by a heartfelt sincerity that made everyone feel part of something greater.
Fashion leaders, philanthropists, diplomats, and cultural icons filled the salon. They came not merely to sip champagne or admire the glittering atmosphere — they came to stand beside Jean and lend their voices to a movement that unites science and humanity: the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation.
Jean’s address was moving and powerful. She reminded the assembled guests that Dr. Samuel Waxman’s work has changed the trajectory of cancer research — pioneering collaboration among global scientists and creating breakthroughs that have given hope to millions. “Science without compassion is incomplete,” she said. “And tonight, compassion leads science forward.”
THE WAXMANS: A LEGACY OF SCIENCE AND SOUL
Dr. Samuel Waxman and Marion N. Waxman are legends in their own right. Together, they have dedicated their lives to advancing cancer research and building bridges between laboratories and lives.
Dr. Waxman’s vision was never confined to a single institution — his dream was global collaboration, scientists across continents working together, sharing discoveries, and accelerating cures. That dream became reality through the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation (SWCRF) and the Samuel Waxman Institute for Aging & Cancer, an affiliate of The Mark Foundation for Cancer Research.
Their pioneering focus on the biological relationship between aging and cancer is changing medicine. Their work identifies the cellular processes that link the two, developing strategies for prevention and early detection. The Institute’s efforts move us toward a future where healthy aging and reduced cancer risk are not aspirations, but realities.
Marion Waxman, a respected humanitarian, complements her husband’s brilliance with grace and intellectual leadership. Her devotion to advancing education, medical research, and public health awareness makes her a cornerstone of this mission. Together, the Waxmans embody brilliance with benevolence — a rare partnership that has saved lives and inspired a movement.
THE EVENING ON PARK AVENUE
Jean Shafiroff’s Fall Celebration was a masterpiece of style and meaning. Champagne sparkled in crystal flutes, autumnal flowers cascaded from gilded vases, and soft jazz set the tone for a night of elegance and empathy. Guests exchanged warm greetings, united by admiration for Jean’s leadership and devotion to the Waxman cause.
The guest list read like a who’s who of New York’s social, scientific, and philanthropic elite — doctors, CEOs, media figures, ambassadors, and foundation leaders. Conversations swirled about the upcoming Gala at Apella, the importance of The Mark Foundation’s matched fundraising, and the exceptional honorees:
– Jean Shafiroff, Philanthropist of the Year — recognized for her ongoing generosity and tireless service to numerous global causes.
– Jeffrey Settleman, Ph.D., Senior Vice President and Chief Scientific Officer for Oncology Research and Development at Pfizer — recipient of the Breakthrough Science Award.
– Robert Wiener, Chairman Emeritus of Maxx Properties — honored as Philanthropist of the Year for his visionary support.
Guests departed that evening inspired, energized, and ready for the gala season ahead. The excitement was palpable; the mission clear. The Waxman Collaboration for a Cure Gala would be more than an event — it would be a statement of solidarity with every family touched by cancer.
Founder and CEO: Dr. Samuel Waxman
Executive Director: William T. Sullivan
President: Spencer Waxman
Vice President: Dena K. Weiner
Secretary: Gerald F. Joyce
Board of Directors:
Chris Arlotta, Frederick W. Barney Jr., Ethan Dmitrovsky, M.D., James E. Frankel, Dennis A. Herman, Linda Herman, Gary Jacob, W. David Hinkelman, Gary Gladstein, Ari Zagdanski, Mark D. Friedman, Erica Linden-Fineberg, Joseph Steffa, Gerald F. Joyce Jr., Howard Shlafmitz, Baron Silverstein, Scott Waxman, Mario Pecoraro, and more.
Honorary Directors:
Maureen Cogan, Mary Kantor, Susan W. Rose, Alan P. Safir, Joan A. Safir, Zena Wiener.
Chairman’s Council:
Lawrence Altman, Karen Amster-Young, Thomas A. Conway, Arminio Fraga, Gary Gladstein, Clifford Greenberg, Jody Gorlin, Kobi Halperin, Orital Karlic, Gerald Kreuther, Howard Kurz, Erica Linden-Fineberg, Mathew Lyons, Thomas Haran, J. Jay Mather, Peter Mondics, Randi Schatz, Tony Shogren, Tadashi Shoji, Jonathan Licht, M.D., Shawn Miller, Susan Perrick, Ariella Riva Ritvo-Slifka, Ph.D., Liz Rome, Wendy & Lewis Rubin, Deborah & Howard Shlafmitz, Alison & Charles Sorrentino, Laurie & Joseph Steffa, William T. Sullivan, Vicky & Bob Hollander-Smith, Pamela & Lawrence Tarica, Marc Taub, Bettina & Spencer Waxman, Julie & Scott Waxman, Marion & Samuel Waxman, Dena Weiner & David Rosenholc, Andrew Wiener, Brittany Willard, Madeleine Ewen-Mitchell, and Ari Zagdanski.
Chief Science Advisor: Jonathan Licht, M.D.
Chief Mission Advisor: Julio Aguirre-Ghiso, Ph.D.
Scientific Advisory Board: James DeGregori, Ph.D., Ron Evans, Ph.D., Lorraine Gudas, Ph.D., Tannishtha Reya, Ph.D., Kevan Shokat, Ph.D., Nancy Speck, Ph.D., Ashani T. Weeraratna, Ph.D., Hua Yu, Ph.D.
Event Committee:
Julio Aguirre-Ghiso, Ph.D., Chris Arlotta & Mario Pecoraro, Frederick Barney, Jr., Ethan Dmitrovsky, M.D., Erica Linden-Fineberg, James E. Frankel, Mark D. Friedman, Gary Gladstein, Jody Gorlin, Kobi Halperin, W. David Hinkelman, Gary Jacob, Gerald F. Joyce, Jr., Ortal Karlic, Erik D. Klingenberg, Jamie Koff, Jonathan Licht, M.D., Shawn Miller, Gary Nolan, Ph.D., Susan Perrick, Ariella Riva Ritvo-Slifka, Ph.D., Liz Rome, and Wendy & Lewis Rubin.
THE COMMUNICATIONS MAESTRO: NORAH LAWLOR
The voice behind this seamless presentation of philanthropy and prestige is none other than Norah Lawlor, Principal & CEO of Lawlor Media Group, with her exceptional team. Their expertise, precision, and artistry in publicity make each Waxman event shine in the global spotlight.
Norah Lawlor, a legend in the world of luxury PR and event communications, is known for her meticulous storytelling and elegant representation of high-profile personalities, from royalty and celebrities to humanitarian leaders. Under her direction, Lawlor Media Group bridges culture, compassion, and communication — ensuring that causes of great importance receive the visibility they deserve.
Her thoughtful orchestration of Jean Shafiroff’s Fall Celebration and the upcoming Waxman Gala underscores her commitment not just to prestige but to purpose.
INVESTING IN THE FUTURE
At the core of every glass raised that evening lies a purpose: to support groundbreaking research that changes lives. Contributions from attendees go directly to cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment innovations through the Waxman Institute’s pioneering work.
Funds raised are matched dollar for dollar by The Mark Foundation for Cancer Research — doubling every act of generosity. From Leader Tables ($100,000) to Individual Tickets ($1,500), every contribution carries the same heartbeat of hope.
This is not charity; it is legacy. A testament to what humanity achieves when it comes together.
A CELEBRATION OF LIFE, SCIENCE, AND STYLE
Jean Shafiroff’s Fall Celebration was not simply an evening party — it was a tapestry woven of empathy, intellect, and inspiration. The Waxmans, the scientists, the donors, and the dreamers all came together, each thread shimmering with love and purpose.
As guests departed the candlelit salon on Park Avenue, one truth resonated in every heart: the true luxury of life is giving.
On October 22, 2025, that truth will echo through the grand hall of Apella as the world celebrates science, generosity, and the unyielding pursuit of a cure.
The Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation — where discovery meets destiny.
Jean Shafiroff — where style meets soul.
Norah Lawlor and Lawlor Media Group — where communication meets compassion.
Drs. Samuel and Marion Waxman — where science meets salvation.
Together, they light the path forward.
