Nearly 700 industry executives and City of Hope supporters raised more than $8.1 million for cancer research, treatment and education through their 2010 “Sharing Hope” initiative, the most raised by the National Office Products Industry (NOPI) in its 28-year history.

NOPI celebrated its success by honoring David Williamson, executive vice president and general manager of MWV - MeadWestvaco’s Office Products Group, with The Spirit of Life® Award at its annual gala, held in Chicago in September.

The yearlong drive included various fundraising elements, such as cause-related marketing efforts, direct mail, employee giving and golf outings. MWV’s two-year cause-related marketing effort has raised more than $1 million through donations from a portion of sales from specially marked products.

“This evening was very special, because it captured the belief that someday a cure and prevention for cancer will be found,” said Williamson. “Everyone showed incredible support for the lifesaving work being done at City of Hope.”

In 2011, NOPI will honor Jay Mutschler, senior vice president of Staples, with The Spirit of Life Award. The event will take place Sept. 15, 2011, in Chicago. Mutschler was the 2010 Spirit of Life dinner committee chair and emcee of the gala honoring Williamson.