Artists and executives from the music and entertainment industry recently gathered to celebrate the culmination of a year-long fundraising campaign that raised a record $3.6 million for City of Hope’s cancer research and treatment programs.

The Spirit of Life® campaign, which consisted of a variety of events and cause marketing programs, was led by Bob Cavallo, Disney Music Group chair. Cavallo was presented with The Spirit of Life Award, the institution’s top philanthropic honor, at the event.

More than 1,200 industry leaders attended the black-tie gala sponsored by AEG at the Pacific Design Center in West Hollywood, Calif., on Sept. 27. Music groups including the Plain White T’s, Rascal Flatts, and Grace Potter and the Nocturnals performed at the event. Hollywood Records artist Hilary Duff introduced the bands.

“I am honored to be a part of this outstanding group, whose support of City of Hope dates back more than 30 years,” said Cavallo.

“City of Hope’s mission of scientific discovery is unparalleled, and the dedication of their physicians, researchers and staff is an inspiration to me and to everyone in the industry who supported this campaign. I am thrilled to have been a part of its success.”

The Spirit of Life Award is presented annually to individuals who have made a notable contribution to their community and profession. The Music and Entertainment Industry fundraising group for City of Hope selects honorees for its Spirit of Life Award who have fundamentally influenced the direction of the music industry.

Motivated by its commitment to innovative medical research and quality patient care, and inspired by the guiding humanitarian principles of City of Hope, a group of key industry executives founded the Music and Entertainment Industry chapter. In its 32 years of dedicated efforts, the chapter has grown to include all the major music labels. The industry has raised more than $65 million through benefits, promotions and partnerships to support ongoing programs at City of Hope.